INDIANAPOLIS — What some may call a long-awaited transformation is underway at the Circle Centre Mall in downtown Indianapolis.
Hendricks Commercial Properties, which acquired the mall a year ago, closed the southern half of the mall on Tuesday and released updated plans for the $600 million redevelopment project.
The redevelopment will start with an extensive design phase, but the developer's vision is drastically different from the 30-year-old mall. The glass mall structure will be replaced with an open-air design with trees and brick storefronts.
The project will introduce 400,000 square feet of retail, restaurant, and entertainment space, along with 100,000 square feet of office space, 300 residential units, and 100,000 square feet of outdoor public space.
The current mall is completely vacant south of Maryland Street, which made it a confusing experience for shopper Joshua Williams.
"It's kind of dry, there wasn't anyone in there," Williams said. "None of the stores were open. It wasn't lively."
Chris Clay operates Georgia Street Grind, a coffee shop that had easy access to Circle Centre Mall through a skywalk from the Omni Severin Hotel. The skywalk will be permanently removed soon, but Clay still remains optimistic about the renovation plans.
"The reinvigoration, the reinvestment they're making is going to make everything so much better for downtown," Clay said. "I think that can be nothing but good for the businesses down here. I know it's a little bit of a difficulty getting through that, but we're hoping we all get through it."
The redevelopment will occur in two phases. The first phase is not expected to finish until 2030.
“Our goal is to create the true heart of the city—a place that brings energy to downtown Indianapolis every day, not just during major events,” said Hendricks Commercial Properties CEO Rob Gerbitz in a provided statement. “We’re transforming a traditional enclosed mall into an open, pedestrian-friendly destination that fosters connection, activity, and a vibrant urban culture. As we navigate this redevelopment, we appreciate the community’s patience and support. This project is about shaping the future of downtown and creating new opportunities for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.”
Road Closures
Beginning April 1, 2025, the south block of Circle Centre Mall—located between Illinois and Meridian Streets, and Maryland and Georgia Streets—will close to prepare for construction, including the closure of the skywalk that connects to the Omni Severin Hotel. All tenants in this area have vacated to facilitate the redevelopment.
For project updates and skywalk access information, click here.
