PLANO, Texas — A prominent shopping center in North Texas is set for partial demolition as part of a sweeping redevelopment plan that reflects broader shifts in retail and real estate trends.
Dallas-based Centennial plans to begin dismantling portions of The Shops at Willow Bend within the next 12 months, according to regional reporting. The property, located roughly 25 miles north of Dallas, opened in 2001 and has long been considered one of the state’s last traditional enclosed malls.
The redevelopment effort aims to transform the site into a mixed-use destination as part of a phased demolition strategy that allows portions of the property to remain operational while others are taken down.
According to local reports, the demolition will be conducted in stages, enabling continued use of select buildings while crews begin dismantling underperforming sections and preparing the site for future construction.
The redevelopment project, dubbed “The Bend,” is expected to include a mix of retail, dining, office space, residential units and hospitality offerings. The approach reflects a growing industry trend of repositioning aging retail centers into more diversified, experience-driven developments.
“The project will reimagine the property as a mixed-use district called The Bend, featuring retail, restaurants, office space a hotel and homes,” the report stated.
Centennial, which manages a national portfolio of nearly three dozen retail properties, has not released detailed construction timelines or project costs. However, the company has outlined a vision for the site that emphasizes design, experience and community integration.
On its website, Centennial describes the redevelopment as a transformation that will breathe new life into the property while elevating its design and functionality.
“Willow Bend [is] being infused with new life and inspired with fresh sophistication. This mixed-use village will bring an undeniably cosmopolitan, artistic aesthetic and an abundance of unique experiences” that will include “a magical mix of indoor and outdoor spaces.”
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The shift comes as traditional malls across the U.S. continue to face declining foot traffic and tenant turnover. Since its opening in 2001, The Shops at Willow Bend has experienced the departure of several anchor tenants, including Dillard’s, Macy’s and the Crayola Experience. Neiman Marcus is also expected to close its location at the mall next year.
In addition to retail and residential components, the site could play a role in regional sports development. Local officials and the Dallas Stars have reportedly discussed the possibility of building a new arena in Plano, with Willow Bend emerging as a potential location.
If realized, such a development would further diversify the site and potentially anchor the broader mixed-use project.
The planned redevelopment underscores a wider evolution in commercial real estate, where underperforming retail properties are being repositioned into multi-use environments that combine living, working and entertainment spaces.
Originally reported by Brian Taylor, Senior Editor in CD Recycler.
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