You may not have known it, but Rockville Town Center in Maryland, USA was once a struggling shopping mall. However, in the last few decades, the center has undergone a significant transformation and has become a vibrant mixed-use hub for the community.
This article will take you through the history and evolution of Rockville Town Center, from its origins as part of a federal urban renewal program to its current status as a thriving community destination. The center is a public-private venture that includes residential housing, retail, restaurants, public parking garages, and cultural amenities.
It’s a bustling area that attracts visitors from all around, and with good reason. The Rockville Branch of the Montgomery County Library and the Metropolitan Center for the Visual Arts are just two examples of the many cultural attractions that make this center a must-visit destination.
So, let’s dive into the history and development of Rockville Town Center to understand how it went from being a struggling mall to a vibrant hub of activity.
History and Urban Renewal
You may recall that Rockville Town Center has a fascinating history rooted in urban renewal. The Federal urban renewal program in 1962 had a significant impact on Rockville, leading to the construction of the residential Americana Centre and high-rise offices.
However, by the 1970s, the city faced a declining economy, and the Rockville Mall was built in an attempt to revitalize the area.
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The community response to the mall was mixed, with some welcoming the new development while others were critical of the impact on the historic downtown area. In 1993, Rockville Mayor Doug Duncan launched a campaign against the mall, leading to the West end of the mall being torn down in 1995.
The park was constructed on the site around the old courthouse building and the movie complex, and the Rockville Town Center project began in 2004, transforming the area into the vibrant hub it is today.
Development and Construction
Take a look at the progress made in the development and construction of the mixed-use center with public amenities, retail, and residential housing. The Rockville Town Center project began in 2004 and has since seen significant construction progress.
The center is a public/private venture and comprises retail shops, restaurants, food stores, public parking garages, the Rockville Branch of the Montgomery County Library, and the Rockville Arts and Innovation Center. There are around 680 units of residential housing in a pedestrian-friendly setting.
Community involvement has been a key feature of the Rockville Town Center development. The project was initiated by the Rockville Mayor Doug Duncan, who launched a campaign against the old mall in 1993. Since then, the center has been designed to cater to the needs of the community.
The mixed-use center is easily accessible, and the pedestrian-friendly design encourages people to walk and explore the area. The center has contributed to the revitalization of the city and has become a vibrant hub for social and cultural activities.
Features and Attractions
Explore the array of amenities offered at this mixed-use development, including public spaces, retail shops, restaurants, and residential housing.
Rockville Town Center boasts a variety of public spaces, such as the Town Square, which serves as the heart of the development. This 12-acre space features a large fountain, a stage for live performances, and ample seating.
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It’s the perfect spot to relax, people-watch, or attend one of the many community events held throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and holiday celebrations.
In addition to the Town Square, Rockville Town Center offers a range of retail shops and restaurants. Visitors can shop local boutiques, browse national brands, or grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants, cafes, and eateries.
The development also includes residential housing, with approximately 680 units in a pedestrian-friendly setting.
With its mix of public spaces, retail shops, restaurants, and residential housing, Rockville Town Center is a vibrant hub for the community to live, work, and play.