"The market has seen tremendous growth, both in residential and population growth," Neil said. "As the center has increased occupancy over the last couple of years, we've taken a look at other options to continue to grow the center and improve the center, and give our consumers what they're looking for and what they want. We think this is it."

Sandy Mayor Tom Dolan gave the project hearty support: "This really revitalizes shopping at South Towne."

"The lifestyle center is a fun place to go," Dolan said. "It's designed for people to come and enjoy, to sit and see, and shop at upscale shops. This is a new step up for Sandy city."

And it responds to the changing demographics in the southern part of the Salt Lake Valley, he said.

"South Towne mall is located in the highest income area in the state" when grouped according to postal ZIP codes, Dolan said. "Sandy has the two highest ZIP codes according to household income, 84092 and 84093, followed by Draper, South Jordan and then Alpine. So this is a great location for a new lifestyle center, with the population that continues to grow, and with many affluent families."

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