Norfolk's MacArthur Center Mall to Close and Be Demolished

The 27-year-old downtown mall will be redeveloped into a mixed-use project.

Feb. 6, 2026 at 3:07pm

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The city of Norfolk has announced plans to close the MacArthur Center mall by June 30, 2026, setting the stage for a long-planned redevelopment project in the city's downtown. The mall, which opened in 1999, has seen a decline in recent years, with the last remaining anchor tenant, Regal Cinemas, closing in January 2026. The redevelopment is expected to include multiple hotel properties, ground-level retail, and a mix of owner-occupied residential units and rentals.

Why it matters

The closure and redevelopment of the MacArthur Center mall represents a significant shift in Norfolk's downtown, as the city looks to revitalize the area and attract new investment. The mall's decline mirrors broader trends in the retail industry, as brick-and-mortar stores struggle to compete with e-commerce.

The details

Norfolk plans to begin demolition of the MacArthur Center mall near the end of 2026. The redevelopment project is expected to include multiple hotel properties, ground-level retail, and a mix of owner-occupied residential units and rentals. The city has said it will offer assistance to the remaining tenants, including relocation assistance and business support.

  • The MacArthur Center mall opened on May 12, 1999.
  • Regal Cinemas, the last remaining anchor tenant, closed on January 29, 2026.
  • The city of Norfolk announced plans to close the mall on February 6, 2026.
  • The mall is expected to close by June 30, 2026.
  • Demolition of the mall is expected to begin near the end of 2026.

The players

Norfolk Mayor Kenny Alexander

The mayor of Norfolk, Virginia, who announced the plans to close and redevelop the MacArthur Center mall.

Pat Roberts

The city manager of Norfolk, who provided details on the potential redevelopment plans for the mall.

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What they’re saying

“The redevelopment of MacArthur Center represents a significant milestone in advancing a downtown that reflects Norfolk's continued momentum.”

— Kenny Alexander, Mayor of Norfolk

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

The closure and redevelopment of the MacArthur Center mall in Norfolk highlights the ongoing challenges facing traditional retail, as well as the city's efforts to revitalize its downtown and attract new investment.