JCPenney Closure: May 2025

As many San Bruno shoppers are aware, JCPenney recently announced its plans to close its Tanforan location this May. The pending closure of one of the mall’s anchor tenants brings even greater challenges to the mall’s operations as a retail-only entity.

It is precisely this uncertainty in the retail landscape that precipitated the San Bruno City Council to embark upon a study of its re-use and the ultimate adoption of the 2021 Reimagining Tanforan Land Use Fact Sheet which articulated a vision for redevelopment that is reflected in the development proposal. Our Community Priorities Progress Report issued in 2023 reaffirmed community support for that vision, and continuing dialogue with residents has helped inform the project plans submitted this past fall by the property’s owner, Alexandra Real Estate Equities, Inc. (ARE).

As the property owner evaluates how the May closure of JCPenny will impact its operations and short term plans for the mall, the City remains focused on its role in processing the pending Project Application for this once-in-a-generation development opportunity.

Project Application Status and Tanforan For San Bruno Updates

Following ARE’s formal Project Application submittal last October, the City Council and Planning Commission jointly held a Study Session in November to review the current plan and identify key areas for study as staff process the application.

In December, the City of San Bruno hosted over 100 community members at the Tanforan Public Engagement Center for two Open House events. These meetings continued the Tanforan For San Bruno community engagement process launched in the fall of 2022 and served as an important milestone in the ongoing public dialogue about Tanforan’s future.

Attendees were able to learn about the developer’s Project Application, ask the development team questions, and provide feedback around two important project elements: the retail village and spaces for community gathering.

Nearly 180 members of our community also participated in digital versions of these feedback opportunities on www.TanforanForSanBruno.com. Thank you to all those that contributed input online and in-person

Next Steps

On March 18, 2025 the City Council and Planning Commission will jointly host a second Study Session to review the project and receive an update on progress. The project’s Environmental Impact Report is expected to be published this fall, with a formal Council hearing expected to take place in November 2025. More updates will be shared as they become available.

The City deeply appreciates the community’s continued involvement in this important development process. The project represents a unique opportunity to ensure the Tanforan of the future evolves to meet the ever-changing needs of the San Bruno community. Please continue to stay connected by visiting the www.TanforanForSanBruno.com website. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact tanforan@sanbruno.ca.gov.