Details released on expansion of Arlington mall

Simon Property Group Inc., an Indianapolis-based retail real estate company, has announced details of its expansion at The Fashion Centre at Pentagon City in Arlington.

Construction is scheduled to begin soon on a 50,000-square-foot expansion of the mall along Hayes Street in Arlington. The expansion will include two levels of new shops and restaurants with outdoor seating.

The project will include a new entrance to the mall, a new office lobby and a new valet parking area.

“On the inside of the mall we are planning a number of improvements to enhance our customers' overall experience and improve the ambience of The Fashion Centre at Pentagon City whether they are here to shop, to dine or just to enjoy a welcoming and comfortable environment,” Laurie VanDalen, general manager of mall, said in a statement. “This project will completely transform the look and feel of our center.”

Changes will include new elevators and escalators; an interior common area renovation that will include new flooring, handrails, directional signage and updated third-floor restroom; and a redesign of the food court, including expanded seating areas and new furnishings.

Simon Property Group said the new shops and restaurants involved in the expansion will be announced shortly.

The project, designed by Omniplan Architects, is set to be completed next year..

The Fashion Centre, which opened in 1989, has more than 170 stores. Its anchor stores are Nordstrom and Macy's.