Redeveloping Tucson's Strip Malls into Mixed-Use Developments

Abstract

The city of Tucson, Arizona, has experienced significant growth in population and urbanization over the past few decades, with high-rise apartments being built as a primary method of densification in downtown Tucson. However, concerns about the sustainability of this approach have prompted a reevaluation of alternative solutions. This paper explores the potential of redeveloping underutilized areas, such as strip malls, as a sustainable housing solution. Through an analysis of Tucson's housing crisis, along with studies on rezoning and redeveloping shopping centers, this paper argues for the need to change the face of Tucson's urban landscape. The study focuses on three existing strip malls in Tucson and includes a survey of local residents to determine their attitudes towards housing on top of strip malls. Results show strong support for this approach, highlighting the potential for a significant number of new housing units to be built atop strip malls. The findings also reveal both strengths and weaknesses of strip malls that can be leveraged to improve not only these locations but also other shopping centers in general.