Galleria at University Square: A Rochester Landmark Through Time
The Galleria at University Square, located in Downtown Rochester, boasts a rich history, evolving from its initial conception as a vital component of urban renewal to its present-day status as a shopping and dining destination. Its story reflects Rochester's growth and adaptation over the decades.
From Urban Renewal to Centerplace Galleria Mall (1969-1989)
The seeds of the Galleria at University Square were sown in 1969 when a federally assisted urban renewal project was defeated in a Rochester referendum. This setback coincided with the departure of major retailers like Sears, J.C. Penney, Montgomery Ward, and Dayton's from downtown Rochester to the newly established Crossroads and Apache malls. For years, downtown development proposals were repeatedly considered and discarded.
In 1983, Rochester developer Gus Chaufolias entered the scene, followed by Minneapolis developer William Maddux Jr. in 1985. Together, they crafted a viable plan for private downtown development. After numerous challenges and setbacks, ground was finally broken in 1987 for the $42.8 million Centerplace development project.
The Centerplace Galleria Mall officially opened its doors in May 1989, with a grand opening celebration held in November of the same year. Joe Powers, owner of Cozzoli's Pizza (a Miami-based pizza chain that opened in 1989 and was located on the third floor), expressed his enthusiasm for doing business in downtown Rochester, highlighting the potential for future growth.
The original development scheme featured a network of seven skyways, designed to connect the Galleria to the Mayo Civic Center and the government center, creating a unified downtown experience. Chaufolias emphasized the importance of the skyway system for the project's success, stating that it provided a climate-controlled and well-lit environment for shoppers year-round.
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Early Success and Community Impact (1989-2007)
In its first year, the mall generated approximately $3.5 million in retail sales. By the fifth anniversary, annual sales had surged to an estimated $23 million to $25 million. The First Bank building reached 98 percent occupancy, the Radisson Hotel operated at an 85 percent occupancy rate, and the Galleria mall was 85 percent leased out, demonstrating the project's positive impact on the local economy.
Jerry Smith, the manager of the Radisson Plaza Hotel and the Galleria shopping mall, emphasized the crucial role of the development project in maintaining the vibrancy of downtown Rochester. He noted that the city's bustling downtown, in contrast to the challenges faced by other secondary cities, attracted conventioneers and businesses.
The Galleria's target market encompassed a diverse group: conventioneers, local residents, Mayo Clinic visitors and patients, downtown workers, and residents from southeastern Minnesota, western Wisconsin, and northern Iowa. Approximately 2.2 million tourists visited Rochester each year. Chaufolias estimated that 55 percent of the mall's customers were tourists, while 45 percent were local residents, indicating a balanced customer base.
Transition to Shops at University Square (2007)
In 2007, the Centerplace Galleria Mall underwent a name change, becoming Shops at University Square, following the arrival of the University of Minnesota Rochester (UMR). This rebranding reflected the growing presence and influence of the university within the downtown area.
Return to Galleria at University Square (2020-Present)
In a nod to its history, the shopping and dining center reverted to its original name, Galleria at University Square, in 2020. This change applied specifically to the two floors of retail space, while the overall building retained the University Square moniker. Titan Developments and Investments President Mark Steege explained that the name change aimed to provide retailers with a stronger identity.
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The renaming coincided with the reopening of businesses following closures due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Steege expressed confidence in the retailers' preparedness, highlighting their efforts to ensure a safe shopping environment.
A Comparison to Other Galleria Malls
The Galleria at University Square shares similarities with other Galleria-branded malls, such as Galleria Dallas and the Houston Galleria. These malls often feature upscale retail, dining, and entertainment options, as well as architectural elements like ice rinks and glass-vaulted ceilings inspired by the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan, Italy.
Galleria Dallas, for example, opened in 1982 with anchor tenants like Marshall Field's, Gump's, and Saks Fifth Avenue. It has undergone expansions and renovations over the years, adding new tenants and amenities to maintain its appeal.
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