The City of Citrus Heights is taking charge of its own future and developing a plan for Sunrise Mall in order to keep up with rapid changes in the retail market. Last night, the Citrus Heights City Council voted to approve a General Plan amendment that supports the growth of Sunrise Mall and directed staff to begin a Specific Plan process.
This process will guide the future development of Sunrise Mall by creating and implementing a community-based vision through a comprehensive planning effort. The City will collaborate on a plan with the five owners who comprise the 100-acre Sunrise Mall area, as well as other stakeholders and the local community. A team of consultants will lead the process that will involve market research, demand analysis, community outreach, and ultimately deliver a land use plan and environmental impact report that result in a shovel-ready redevelopment opportunity. City officials are confident the new plan will transform the Sunrise Mall into a premier regional destination and flourishing center of community life where residents and visitors shop, work, live, and play.
Sunrise Mall, which opened in 1971, has been an economic cornerstone for the City of Citrus Heights since incorporation. Sunrise Mall is a regionally significant commercial center and has repeatedly been the highest generator of sales tax revenue in the city, anchoring the broader Sunrise MarketPlace commercial district.
City Manager Chris Boyd said, “We are acknowledging the huge changes that have taken place in the retail market since Sunrise Mall was originally built. With purchasing trends gravitating online, people now visit malls for an experience. We want to make sure the Sunrise Mall area is viable for generations to come, and we are looking forward to working with the owners, stakeholders, and our community to put together an exciting plan for the future.”