Ethan Towers Mall and Subway Shopping Concourse

Mall's logo in 2023

The Ethan Towers Mall and Subway Shopping Concourse (abbreviated as ETMASSC) is an indoor underground shopping mall located below the concourse area of the Ethan Towers complex.

Most of the mall is located in the sub-basement levels below 3 and 4 Ethan Towers, as well as under the plaza. Completed in 1987, it is the largest shopping mall in Phoenix City, and the second largest in Ethania. The main entrance is located on the east side of the lobby of 1 Ethan Towers with escalators going down into the mall itself. The mall is also accessible from the lobbies of 3 and 4 Ethan Towers. It also serves as the point of access to the A, ​D, and ​R trains, with the subway station below the mall.

The mall includes eateries as well as approximately 80 stores, including JCPenney, Banana Republic, Coach, Sephora, Gap, Sam Goody, and Victoria's Secret. Thousands of people use the mall daily.

## History

#### Before the mall

Prior to the mall's construction, the underground space was utilized for various purposes, such as parking facilities, storage areas, utility rooms, or mechanical infrastructure for the Ethan Towers complex. It was a functional but relatively unused space, primarily serving the operational needs of the buildings above.

Before the mall, access to the complex's subway station was from a single entry point on the southeast corner of the site, adjacent to 3 ET. Visitors had to venture outside to access various stores, potentially being exposed to inclement weather conditions or other inconveniences. The development of the mall aimed to address these challenges by providing a centralized, climate-controlled, and convenient shopping experience.

The decision to build the Ethan Towers Mall and Subway Shopping Concourse was driven by a desire to create a more integrated and comprehensive urban center. The developers recognized the potential of the underground space to serve as a vibrant hub for retail, entertainment, and transportation. The construction of the mall transformed the area into a bustling shopping destination, offering a wide range of stores, dining options, and amenities.

#### Construction

The construction of the Ethan Towers Mall and Subway Shopping Concourse from 1975 to 1984 was a massive undertaking that required careful planning, extensive excavation, and intricate architectural design, including making structural improvements to the complex's plaza.

Groundbreaking on the mall began in April 1975, after work crews finished tearing out the original plaza, to make way for construction equipment. Construction teams focused on the foundational work and excavation of the underground space. They carefully planned and executed the design concepts envisioned by architect Norbert Antonie. The excavation involved extensive digging and earthmoving equipment to create the large underground area required for the mall. The construction crew worked diligently to ensure structural integrity and create a safe environment for future visitors.

Once the basic structure was in place, the construction team began implementing the architectural elements that would shape the mall's appearance. They worked on installing the foundation, structural supports, and underground infrastructure necessary to support the retail spaces, walkways, and amenities.

#### Integration of the subway network

The integration of the subway network into the mall also required significant construction efforts. Subway stations were strategically located within the mall premises, enabling convenient access for commuters. The construction team worked closely with transportation authorities to ensure the seamless connection between the mall and the subway system, building access points, escalators, and walkways to facilitate smooth transitions.

Excavation and tunneling works were carried out to create the necessary space for the subway system. The construction team employed advanced tunneling techniques and heavy machinery to dig tunnels beneath the mall and connect them to existing subway lines or other transportation hubs in the city. This process required careful monitoring of soil conditions, ensuring stability and safety throughout the excavation process. Station construction involved the creation of spacious underground platforms, ticketing areas, and passenger amenities. The architects focused on designing aesthetically pleasing and functional spaces that would enhance the passenger experience. The integration of the stations with the mall required coordination with the mall's architectural design, allowing for seamless transitions between the subway system and the shopping concourse. Station construction involved the creation of spacious underground platforms, ticketing areas, and passenger amenities. The architects focused on designing aesthetically pleasing and functional spaces that would enhance the passenger experience. The integration of the stations with the mall required coordination with the mall's architectural design, allowing for seamless transitions between the subway system and the shopping concourse.

To ensure smooth passenger flow and accessibility, escalators, elevators, and stairways were installed to connect the mall's various levels with the subway stations. Signage, wayfinding systems, and digital displays were strategically placed throughout the mall to guide passengers and provide information on train schedules, routes, and destinations.