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Simon Properties Announces Major Upgrades To South Hills Village

BETHEL PARK (KDKA) -- South Hills Village is a popular shopping destination, anchored by Macy's at one end, Target and Dick's Sporting Goods at the other, and Sears in the middle.

But now the owner -- Simon Properties -- is beginning a multi-million dollar upgrade.

"They need to really upgrade it, and I think people will use it more, enjoy it more," said Phyllis Svendsen, a regular shopper at the Village.

That's exactly the idea, says mall manager Linda Accetulla, who announced the upgrades with local officials, as kids in the Village's Kidgit Club worked on their own construction designs nearby.

First to undergo a makeover will be the food court, including new floor tiles, new colors and a variety of seating arrangements with charging stations.

"Our plan is to create a contemporary dining destination, one that will completely enhance our customer's dining experience," said Accetulla.

Entrances to the mall will also be redesigned with more style, and within the mall the old gated look will be replaced by clear glass and stainless steel.

One major improvement at South Hills Village -- new escalators, which will replace the staircases at both ends of the mall. That, obviously, will make it easier for patrons to move from one level to another.

"Always have to walk to the middle of the mall to use an escalator or the elevator," shopper Richard Skowvron told KDKA money editor Jon Delano. "That's great. I like that idea."

And new stores are coming, too, like Forever 21, Soma, Ulta, and Lane Bryant, while others not yet here in Pittsburgh will make their first appearance at South Hills Village.

Is this in competition with Ross Park Mall, also owned by Simon Properties?

"You know they complement each other," said Dave Johnson, regional vice president for Simon. "Obviously, Ross Park is just an amazing property, as is South Hills Village. They both fit their niche."

A South Hills niche that Simon Properties hopes will grow like the North.

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