Downtown Summerlin mall opened in Las Vegas

New Downtown Summerlin shopping area is officially opened to the public.

The construction of the 1.6m square foot urban center has been delayed for almost a decade due to the economic recession.  However, developers say that the massive opening is a sign that the financial future of Las Vegas is starting to shine once again.

Dillard’s, one of the main anchors, has already opened its doors, along with the Regal Movie Theater, Old Navy and Macy’s.  

After the official opening on Thursday, 80 stores and restaurants will greet customers for the first time. Presently, fashion retailers Francescas and True Religion are set for the opening, and Teavana, Victoria’s Secret and Bath & Body Works are close to being ready for the opening.

Howard Hughes Corporation, the project developers, stated that many businesses have taken a chance to open stores at the center as the economy is starting to pick up.

The first phase of the project will see 125 businesses opening, with the rest of the businesses due to open during the fall and into the holiday season.

Around 2000 construction workers were hired for the project and around 2500 permanent positions will become available.

The second phase of the project will see luxury apartments as well as more restaurants and retailers.  There is no commencement time for this phase of the project.

There are already leases being signed for the nine-storey office tower set in the center of Downtown Summerlin, called One Summerlin.