In a slow economy retail malls and shopping plazas look for ways to attract merchants and keep customers coming. In Peoria, the Metro Centre hopes a new look and advertising campaign will keep it competitive as it hosts numerous events, including this weekend's Race For The Cure.
A flashing new sign greets shoppers who turn into the Metro Centre in Peoria. The mint green on the roof awnings was recently painted beige. Areas in and around the sidewalks will also see new benches, more greenery and revised landscaping this spring.
Operations Manager Jason Fuller said, "The shopping centre was opened in 1971 and it needs a fresh new look and we want to stay vital, fresh. We want to be on the cutting edge but still stay the place that's affordable for family businesses."
Pottstown Deli opened in the Metro Centre a year-and a half ago.
Employee Jason Barth says the revamping project will be good for business.
"I think once it's all completed it'll be very good. I think anytime that you can put on a fresh coat of paint it catches people's eye and anytime you can do that it's great."
Some shoppers News 25 spoke with agreed.
James Kent said, "It's always gonna be more of a draw if it looks nice and clean and everything, sure."
Sue Brady added, "I think it will be competitive with the other shopping centers especially the new one out west."
And with all of the changes taking place, Metro Centre officials say leasing costs are still reasonably attractive compared to competitors.
In addition to the physical upgrades the Metro Centre is also redesigning it's website. Fuller says they hope to have most of the work done by the end of summer.
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