Century III’s long-awaited redevelopment could begin to take shape in the “imminent future,” according to a prospective buyer who says he will begin talks with the borough to start the West Mifflin site’s redevelopment process.
Steve Panko, a Chicago-based developer and founder of Brightside CRE, said he’s interested in the property and wants to bring a “use that is phenomenal” to the region. Preliminary plans suggest that the site could become a mixed-use retail, office and residential space that could attract people from across the South Hills and Mon Valley.
Brightside’s interest emerges after years of vacancy at the mall, which underwent decades of decline, changing ownership and numerous court battles. West Mifflin’s borough manager hopes any redevelopment of the site will buoy the finances of a borough that’s saddled with tax-exempt properties and feeling the squeeze from stagnating real estate tax revenue.
“It’s a sad thing to let go, but hopefully it brings up a new chapter and the next generation will enjoy whatever’s there and we’ll be able to have some additional revenue here,” said borough manager Brian Kamauf. “My kids will never see Century III Mall, especially the way we see it … but that’s what happens, right?”…