From The San Francisco Standard · · 1m 40s
Downtown SF's dead mall and data center plan
A data center bid could revive San Francisco's dead mall but faces city resistance.
In brief
A data center bid could revive San Francisco's dead mall but faces city resistance. San Francisco's Downtown Development Corporation wants retail-focused revival, but a technology company's proposal to turn the vacant San Francisco Centre Mall into a 'regenerative urban energy center' faces hurdles from city officials…
Dead mall dilemma
San Francisco Centre Mall has been a headache for downtown revitalization efforts since closing in early 2026.
Data center proposal
A technology company wants to turn the mall into a 'regenerative urban energy center' with only a third of space for hardware.
City's vision
Downtown aims to revive retail and public spaces, with the mayor's 'Heart of the City' directive targeting more hotel bookings and local residents.
Mall's current state
The mall closed at the beginning of 2026 after telling last remaining tenants to leave, leaving a hollowed-out shell.
Development challenges
KG Growth Partners dispute the proposal as a data center, calling it a 'regenerative urban energy center' that supports downtown activity.
Mayor's moratorium
Mayor Daniel Lurie signed a 45-day moratorium on data centers to study impacts and develop regulations for construction.
Stakeholder concerns
Local owners worry the project could harm Union Square and disrupt downtown's momentum after previous investments.
Economic trade-offs
Data centers generate tax revenue but require energy and employ fewer people than traditional offices.
Public reaction
Residents question whether the proposal will gain public support to become a reality in the empty mall.
What happens next
The project faces permitting obstacles and delays, with stakeholders demanding it benefits local businesses and cultural groups.
What to remember
San Francisco's Downtown Development Corporation wants retail-focused revival, but a technology company's proposal to turn the vacant San Francisco Centre Mall into a 'regenerative urban energy center' faces hurdles from city officials and stakeholders.
