Big changes are officially in motion at Grossmont Center. After years of speculation, plans for a large-scale revitalization of the long-standing La Mesa shopping center have been confirmed, and construction is already underway.

The project is a multi-year, $50 million redevelopment designed to modernize the nearly one-million-square-foot property while preserving its role as a central gathering place for East County residents. The full transformation is expected to be completed by summer 2028.

A New Chapter for a Community Landmark

Originally opened in 1961, Grossmont Center has long served as a retail and social hub for the community. The current redevelopment is being rolled out in three phases, with the first phase now in progress.

Phase one focuses on visual and experiential upgrades, including refreshed building facades, modern storefronts, enhanced landscaping, and new outdoor seating areas. Importantly, all existing businesses will remain open throughout construction, allowing the center to continue operating while improvements are made.

Several major tenants are confirmed to remain long term. Target and Walmart are staying put, Barnes & Noble has extended its lease, and popular destinations like Casa de Pico and BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse will continue serving guests. The property will also retain a movie theater, though it will transition to a new operator as part of the redevelopment.

What’s Changing and What’s Coming Next

Phase two is scheduled to begin in October and will include development of the new movie theater experience. Phase three will coincide with the closure of Macy’s, which is set to shutter on March 31. While details are still under wraps, developers have indicated that the replacement for the former Macy’s space will be a significant addition that reshapes the center’s future.

New tenant announcements are expected in the coming months, with a mix of national brands and locally owned businesses planned. While some traditional elements like the old-style food court will be phased out, developers say they are curating a new lineup of dining and gathering options that better reflect how people use shopping centers today.

A Shift Toward an Open-Air Lifestyle Experience

Rather than functioning as a traditional enclosed mall, Grossmont Center is being reimagined as an open-air lifestyle destination. The goal is to create a space where people can shop, dine, work remotely, meet friends, and spend extended time rather than simply running errands.

There has also been discussion about introducing mixed-use components, such as residential units above retail spaces. While that concept is still being explored, it is not part of the current redevelopment phase.

Nearby Development to Note

Separately from the Grossmont Center project, the former Red Lobster site nearby has already been demolished. According to the City of La Mesa, that location is under review for a future Soapy Joe’s Car Wash.

Looking Ahead

Developers emphasize that the vision for Grossmont Center balances nostalgia with progress, honoring its history while adapting to how communities live, work, and connect today. With a grand re-opening anticipated in summer 2028, the revitalized center aims to become a true destination for East County once again.

As more tenant announcements and updates are released, Grossmont Center’s next chapter is clearly one worth watching.