Century III Mall Site's Future Pondered By Officials

WEST MIFFLIN, PA — With the razing of the Century III Mall parking lot continuing and some demolition apparently occurring inside the long-vacant and deteriorating structure, officials met Friday to discuss the property's future.

Among those attending the session was Shawn Pryor, the chief operating officer of Moonbeam Capital Investments, which owns the mall. Also present were Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato, state and local officials and Democratic state Rep. Nick Pisciottano of West Mifflin, who organized the meeting.

While no concrete plans for the property emerged, Pisciottano said he was encouraged by the progress that is being made.

"Today's meeting was focused on how we can move forward together to revitalize this area," he said in a release. "By coordinating with all levels of government and the property owner, I know we can achieve a win-win solution that benefits everyone in our community."

Since then, the massive building has been formally condemned as squatters and drug activity have been reported in the mall's derelict ruins. Authorities repeatedly have advised people against sneaking into the graffiti-strewn building, which has mold, pooled water and no power.

Allegheny County Councilman Bob Macey said the mall property's location makes it valuable far beyond the borders of West Mifflin.

"The Century III Mall site is uniquely positioned along major roads, close to the Allegheny County Airport, and will be easily accessible from the expanded Mon-Fayette Expressway which makes it a prime destination for our region," he said.

Democratic state Sen. Jim Brewster of McKeesport expressed optimism over the future of the site.

"As we focus our efforts on communities in the Mon Valley and South Hills of Allegheny County, redevelopment of properties like Century III Mall will spur economic growth and revitalization for West Mifflin and surrounding communities," he said. "I'm excited by the possibilities here and encouraged by today's meeting that we are headed down the right path."

Pisciottano said he plans to continue to coordinate regular discussions between the group as demolition and redevelopment at the Century III Mall site continues.