In the state where the indoor mall debuted, Universal, built in1965, has had one of the worst records in the past few years. Someof the anchors such as Montgomery Ward and Woolworth's went darkyears ago, and the mall is reportedly at less than 50% occupancy.Also, the mall hasn't aged gracefully, and crime is a deterrent tocustomers.

Mike Shore, chief communications officer for the MEDC, says theproperty qualified for brownfield redevelopment assistance,requested by the city. "Michigan law allows the designation forproperties that are functionally obsolete, as well as blighted andcontaminated," Shore tells GlobeSt.com. "This mall meets thosequalifications. And anytime we can redevelop an existing property,at a minimum we've saved some green space and reduced sprawl,that's the basis for our programs."

The project includes the rehabilitation of a 100,000-sf anchorbuilding and a 48,000-sf multiplex theater, similar to the existing$1.50 show theater at the mall now. Reportedly, the owners couldbegin demolition and construction by next spring. Company officialsdid not return calls for comment for this story.