March 28, 2013. The Shoppes at Parma - that's the new name describing Phillips Edison & Company's plans to turn Parma's most historic retail location into its newest destination for shopping and dining in an inviting "Main Street" setting. The company's presentation to the Parma Planning Commission on Wednesday, March 27, included renderings for the first phase of its redevelopment plan, including a new design for the Marc's-anchored plaza and future outbuilding.
Roy Williams, senior vice president of Phillips Edison’s Strategic Investment Funds, said, “Our plan is to go beyond a basic facelift and redevelopment for this long-standing regional shopping center. Besides bringing in additional shops, restaurants and services, our vision is to create a more attractive, pedestrian-friendly, family-oriented environment that will act as a town center for Parma residents and surrounding communities We believe the new name reflects the changes we will be making throughout the property to create a more inviting streetscape with additional landscaping, lighting, outdoor seating and other amenities."
“Reinventing a Retail Tradition is our redevelopment theme for The Shoppes at Parma,” Williams added. We understand the significant history of this property within the community and are committed to honoring its legacy.”
This week's presentation to the Planning Commission represented the first in a series of announcements as Phillips Edison provides ongoing updates and new information throughout the redevelopment. Williams said, "In order to achieve our goal of reinventing this retail tradition and creating a totally new experience, we must work through extensive planning processes for design, financing, leasing and City approvals. We are very excited about the alignment of our plans with what Parma City officials have described as their vision for this valuable community asset."
Phillips Edison & Company also owns two Giant Eagle shopping centers located on Snow Road in Parma and Brook Park.
Linda Fatherree