Fashion valley plan targets JCPenney site

The Simon Property Group brought updated plans to the Mission Valley Planning Group during a Wednesday meeting to demolish the existing JCPenney store at Fashion Valley and construct a large mixed-use project. Representatives said the revised, smaller-scale proposal aims to clear out the department store building, the nearby Firestone Tire building, and a vacant strip mall situated just north of the retail space.

Stephen Shea, speaking for the developer, told planning group members that the project will introduce 410 housing units alongside new retail spaces and dining options. The current blueprint calls for four smaller two-story structures surrounding a large courtyard, scaling down from the much larger residential concepts that were initially floated for the property back in previous iterations.

While specific restaurant brands have not yet signed onto the project, Shea said the development team is evaluating a mix of quick-service eateries, sushi options, cantinas, and larger sit-down dining establishments. Retail and residential components are currently undergoing formal review with the city of San Diego as the developer moves forward with the refined concept.

The country's largest shopping mall owner first proposed adding residential units to the property several years ago, but the latest iteration reflects a concerted effort to scale the footprint to community feedback. City officials and planning group members will continue reviewing the formal submittal over the coming weeks as architectural teams finalize the layout.

The submittal marks another phase in the evolving commercial real estate environment in San Diego, where major retail hubs seek to integrate residential spaces to attract steady foot traffic. Project architects and real estate representatives are scheduled to coordinate with municipal departments as the review process advances toward future public hearings.