It feels like we’ve been hearing news of the Westfield UTC expansion for years, with not much to show for it so far. However, it seems the La Jolla shopping mall will soon complete the first phase of the extraordinary $1 billion renovation. On Wednesday night, Westfield UTC hosted a VIP party at the Hard Rock Hotel (with a surprise performance by Donavan Frankenreiter!) to announce plans for the revitalization project, which was originally approved three years ago by the San Diego City Council, but was delayed due to the recession.

Of all San Diego malls, Westfield UTC is a popular choice but has never been considered the local leader for upscale shopping. Through the remodel, Westfield will attempt to change that community perception by adding new retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment perks. Whether or not the “new” Westfield will compete with the luxury appeal of Fashion Valley, we will have to wait and see.

The first phase of the $1 billion expansion project is a $180 million renovation scheduled to be complete by the end of 2012, and includes a variety of updates and additions. Among the list of changes are a 24 Hour Fitness Super Sport Club, a Tender Greens restaurant, a fourteen-screen ArcLight premium movie theater, upgraded public seating with Wi-Fi, and children’s playing areas. The second phase is scheduled for 2013, and will include new specialty shops and restaurants.

As you can see in the renovation rendering, the new Westfield will maintain its relaxed, outdoor atmosphere, but will be enhanced with sleek contemporary design. And most importantly, the project will meet LEED Gold certification for environmental sustainability, working towards a better San Diego.

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