Plans for South Bay mall include massive rooftop park

CUPERTINO, Calif. (KTVU) -- A plan to revamp Vallco shopping mall in the South Bay that carries a price tag of $3 billion is certainly creating a significant buzz. The refurbished mall will boast what some are calling the world's largest sky park, but some are asking if the plan is too "ambitious" for the City of Cupertino.

The shopping center was built in the 1970's. A lot of locals remember it in its heyday as a happening place. It's deteriorated over the years. Many people would love to see it thrive again, but it has yet to be determined if this new proposal is the right fit.

As the saying goes, you either go big or go home. Developer Sand Hill is definitely going big after unveiling a large-scale transformation of Vallco.

"We believe Cupertino is already the innovative technological capital of Silicon Valley," said Reed Moulds of Sand Hill. "With this project, it will be the social and architectural capital."

Dubbed "The Hills at Vallco," the plans are impressive. The revamped mall would be a mix of retail, entertainment and housing. The focal point is the world's largest green roof, essentially a 30-acre community park and nature preserve that's built above and around the mall.

It's an ambitious project to align with its ambitious neighbor, the Apple 2 "spaceship" campus. The landscape architect is the same for both.

"Aside from Apple, the Hills at Valco will be the single greatest economic engine for the city of Cupertino," said Moulds.

While city officials are impressed with the grand vision, they say don't believe the hype just yet. The city has not received a proposal.

"The developers have been doing their homework," said Kitson. "They are obviously serious minded people with a big idea and a big vision. In terms of the city, it's all talk."

There are already concerns surrounding quality of life issues and the biggest concern is the impact on schools. Sand Hill is promising to contribute more than $40 million to the school district and has even offered to build a new school.

Kitson said the community wants a good project and what "good" means, the city isn't quite sure.

"I just hope it still stays reasonable," said Seth Gano of Santa Clara. "That normal people who aren't making $100 or $200 thousand a year can actually shop here still."

Moulds said the plan is not looking to make the revamped mall high end. They're hoping to cater to average families in Cupertino.

Attractions such as the movie theatre and ice rink will stay put. Sand Hill plans to submit its formal application to the city in the next few weeks. If all goes well, construction could start as early as 2017.