# Downtown SF's dead mall and data center plan

> A data center bid could revive San Francisco's dead mall but faces city resistance.
- Title: Downtown SF's dead mall and data center plan | Shortify
- Summary: A data center bid could revive San Francisco's dead mall but faces city resistance. San Francisco's Downtown Development Corporation wants retail-focused…
- Keywords: san francisco centre mall, regenerative urban energy center, kg growth partners, downtown development corporation, mayor dan lurie, data center moratorium, market street revival, news, local, Downtown, SF's, dead
- Source: The San Francisco Standard — https://sfstandard.com/2026/10/20/mall-data-center-sf-downtown
- Published: 2026-10-20T13:00:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: san francisco centre mall, regenerative urban energy center, kg growth partners, downtown development corporation, mayor dan lurie, data center moratorium, market street revival, news, local
## 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.
## Key takeaway

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.