Bolsa Pacific Redevelopment: A New Urban Vision for Westminster Mall

The transformation of suburban malls is a pressing trend across Southern California, responding to the challenges posed by changing retail dynamics. In Westminster, this transformation is encapsulated in the ambitious Bolsa Pacific project, which aims to repurpose the aging Westminster Mall into a vibrant, mixed-use community. Led by Shopoff Realty Investments, this 83-acre redevelopment plan is set to redefine the area and address the critical housing shortages in Orange County.

Revitalizing Westminster’s Retail Landscape

The former Westminster Mall, once a bustling regional shopping center, has struggled in recent years due to declining foot traffic and an oversupply of vacant retail space. Shopoff Realty Investments has taken the lead in revitalizing this site, moving into the entitlement phase for a comprehensive master plan. The visionary design, spearheaded by architectural firm AO, proposes a mixed-use district that includes residential, retail, hospitality, and park areas, encouraging a diverse and inclusive community.

Key Components of the Bolsa Pacific Plan

Central to the Bolsa Pacific proposal is the development of approximately 2,250 residential units, which will include a mix of for-sale homes, market-rate apartments, and income-restricted housing. Alongside this residential component, the plan includes around 220,000 square feet of commercial space and a 120-room hotel. Furthermore, the integration of 15 acres of parks and public open areas aims to foster a sense of community and provide residents with green spaces for leisure and recreation.

Enhancing Community Connectivity

The architectural vision for Bolsa Pacific emphasizes a blend of function and aesthetics. Concepts indicate that buildings may rise to eight stories, arranged strategically to foster connectivity among residential units, commercial spaces, and public areas. This design promotes walkability and encourages community interaction, creating a pedestrian-friendly environment that contrasts with the car-centric layout of traditional malls.

Responding to Housing Needs

Orange County has faced a longstanding housing shortage, and the Bolsa Pacific redevelopment promises to make a significant impact on this issue. The project aligns with the City of Westminster’s long-term planning framework, which envisions up to 3,000 new homes on the nearly 100-acre site. This initiative not only addresses the scarcity of housing but also seeks to create a balanced ecosystem of living, working, and recreational spaces that cater to the needs of residents.

Phased Redevelopment Approach

The Bolsa Pacific project will unfold in phases rather than as a single construction cycle, ensuring minimal disruption to the community. Initial demolition of existing mall structures will commence before new construction begins, allowing for at least one retail tenant to continue operations during this transitional period. The anticipated approvals by 2026 pave the way for a construction timeline that aligns with the necessary entitlements, ensuring a well-organized redevelopment process.

A Vision for the Future

If approved, Bolsa Pacific will mark a transformative shift from a traditional retail hub to a multi-faceted urban district that embraces the changing needs of Westminster’s residents. By repositioning the site as a housing-centered community supported by retail and hospitality, Shopoff Realty Investments aims to create a modern urban node that not only reflects but also facilitates the evolving lifestyle aspirations of the area. This project symbolizes a significant step towards reimagining how we utilize aging retail properties to foster sustainable living spaces for future generations.

The Bolsa Pacific redevelopment represents not just a solution to a local economic challenge, but also a visionary approach to urban development, paving the way for a new era in housing and community design in Orange County.