The West Whiteland Township Board of Supervisors recently approved an ordinance to review a large, proposed development of Exton Square Mall, writes Bill Rettew for The Daily Local News.
After the public hearing, where many residents voiced their disapproval for the sizable development, the three-member board voted unanimously.
The Exton mall sits on a 75-acre property owned by Abrams Realty and Development. The builder suggested a total demolition of the structure. The plans called for 619 apartments and multi-family homes, as well as office units and commercial space.
This ordinance was completed after Abrams Realty submitted their plans. However, under state law, the plans will be reviewed.
Marc Kaplin attended the meeting, representing the builder. He stated that no developer will take the property with said ordinance, which Peter Abrams, owner of Exton Square LLC, agreed with. The ordinance would limit the number of apartments to 450, nix the townhomes, but keep the office and commercial space.
Most residents were in favor of the ordinance passing, citing infrastructure and traffic issues, a ever-growing school district, and lack of space with a too-large influx of people.
After demolishing the mall property (except for the Boscov’s and one parking garage), the builder planned for a 20-foot retaining wall, a Main Street retail center, new landscaping, parks, sidewalks, a huge pedestrian network, and a link to Chester Valley Trail.
Read more about the West Whiteland Township ordinance at The Daily Local News.
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Editor’s Note: This post first appeared on VISTA Today in February 2025.
