The redevelopment of Universal Mall was the result of four years of planning, two years of design and fifteen months of construction on a 57-acre site involving the demolition of two former anchor stores and the construction of a new Target store. The 35 year old formerly enclosed mall is now an active, open air “Life Style Center” with boulevards and storefront parking, landscaped walkways, fountains and courts. Three new out-lot buildings along Dequindre Road will soon support upscale retail uses.

All site work and demolition was sequenced in phases so that customer traffic to the existing tenants was not adversely affected. The Burlington Coat Factory and A.J. Wright stores were kept open during the demolition of adjoining spaces and the exterior renovation of their lease areas. A new theater facade and an active roadway was constructed at the former enclosed entry to the Cinemark Theater, while keeping the cinema in full operation.