University Of Phoenix On The Move

There's new announcement about the future of the Eastgate Metroplex.  The old Eastland Mall is undergoing $50 million in improvements.  The Eastgate Metroplex has already attracted a Coca-Cola Call Center with hundreds of jobs.  Now it has another large tenant moving in.

In a matter of months, what was once the second floor of the old Mervyn's store at the former Eastland Mall will undergo a transformation.  The University of Phoenix is relocating its campus to the Eastgate Metroplex.

"All new equipment, and new facilities, and bold colors.  Just a very bright and futuristic and state of the art facility," said Vice President Lori Santiago with the University of Phoenix.

The University of Phoenix signed a 10 year lease with the Eastgate Metroplex.  The new site will offer about the same square footage as the school's current location just off Highway 169.  But, with a different layout and new amenities.

The addition of an anchor tenant fits in perfectly with Eastgate Metroplex's $50 million renovation plan.

"To choose to come here based on their beliefs in our vision for what we're doing is the good housekeeping seal of approval.  It's terrific," said Gerry Chauvin with Eastgate Metroplex.

Part of that vision is to attract large tenants, like the Coca Cola Call Center that opened in 2007, which bring more people to the building and, in turn, create new activity. The metroplex's director believes University of Phoenix will do that.

"For our project, it is another piece of the building block that we've been trying to achieve," said Gerry Chauvin with Eastgate Metroplex.

Not only does the university fit the center's plan for the future, that future is also expected to fit the needs of students.

"They come to the University of Phoenix because they are busy working adults, and so, to be able to have services here, one stop shopping so to speak and still do their education with us is really, really beneficial to the students," said Vice President Lori Santiago with the University of Phoenix.

Renovation work will take place over the next few months, with a moving day to the new facility set for mid-October.

The metroplex is still undergoing an aggressive renovation, and has plans to attract medical services, entertainment, restaurants, a health and fitness business, and other companies wanting office space.