Holladay's Planning Commission will discuss zoning and master-plan issues - and receive public comment as well - tonight on the proposed makeover of the Cottonwood Mall.

The shopping center's owner, Chicago-based General Growth Properties Inc., intends to replace the outdated enclosed mall with a variety of housing and retail options around a rerouted Big Cottonwood Creek and a pedestrian-friendly street network.

While details of the ambitious 57-acre project remain unknown, tonight's meeting sets the stage sfor further progress on the plan.

Demolition of the 45-year-old mall, except for anchor store Macy's, is slated to start Oct. 15, said Stacey Carroll, account executive for Salt Lake City-based Riester Public Relations, which represents the center's owner on the project.

Plans call for about 500 living units, including condos overlooking a central square, creek-side town homes, and cottages and single-family homes around the project's perimeter.

Main retailers will cluster around the intersection of Murray-Holladay Road and Highland Drive, and a river walk will wind along the enhanced creek. Eventually, that path could connect to trails beyond the city.

The transformed mall is scheduled to open in 2010.

cmckitrick@sltrib.com