Robert Minutoli, senior vice president of Rouse, said yesterday the proposal would about double the size of the 436,000-square-foot mall.
He said the company hoped to bring in high-end retailers and department stores to complement Strawbridge & Clothier.
"We are continuing a very deliberate and rigorous process that began several years ago," Minutoli said. "We have been trying to work closely with the township and other interested parties to satisfy everyone's needs and contribute to West Whiteland."
The expansion, which faces a lengthy approval process, could play a major role in identifying the Exton town center, defined as the area near the
intersection of Routes 30 and 100.
A mix of residential, retail and office use, the town center concept was approved this year by the Board of Supervisors as part of the township's comprehensive plan.
"It's such a critical location," Supervisors Chairwoman Diane Snyder said yesterday. "Obviously, traffic is the big concern."
Snyder added that she would press for "the highest quality product"
because the project would "set the tone for the town center."
The hearing will be at 8 p.m. Aug. 29 at the township building.
Rouse, which is not connected with the Philadelphia-area developer Rouse & Associates, has been competing with Kravco Co. for a share of the Chester County market. The county's median income is $52,300.
Kravco wants to build a center on Route 30 just south of the Pennsylvania
Turnpike Downingtown interchange. Uwchlan Township officials said yesterday that Kravco had not approached the township with plans.
In addition, Hough/Loew Inc. is moving ahead with its Brandywine Square in East Caln, at the foot of the western ramp of the Exton Bypass.
