UPMC Again Considering Century III Mall As Possible Hospital Site?

PITTSBURGH, PA - Now that UPMC has abandoned plans to build a new South Hills hospital in South Fayette almost certainly will rekindle speculation that the giant medical conglomerate is eyeing Century III Mall property for its new facility.
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UPMC confirmed on Thursday that it no longer is interested in building the $211 million hospital, doing an abrupt about-face that came just a month after the project was approved by South Fayette commissioners. UPMC officials gave no reason for the decision.

But a spokeswoman said UPMC still plans a South Hills hospital and that several locations. She didn’t identify them, but the remark likely will trigger discussion that UPMC once again might have its eye on Century III in West Mifflin.

The struggling mall was discussed as a possible site for the new UPMC hospital several years ago. That’s when its owner, Moonbeam Capital Investments of Las Vegas, propose converting the mall into more of an outdoor complex and adding a theater, hotel and medical facilities.

But the plan suddenly vanished from Moonbeam’s website the the company hasn’t discussed its intentions since. In the intervening time, Century III has lost several anchor tenants and many smaller retailers, is virtually deserted most days and has fallen into disrepair.

A call to Moonbeam Friday wasn’t returned.

Photo: Eric Heyl/Patch staff