DALLAS — "Galleria Dallas is not closing."
This statement came straight from the general manager of the 40-year-old Dallas staple following rumors on social media that went viral.
General manager Angie Freed issued the statement on the mall's Facebook page on Tuesday after rumors circulated that the mall was closing down.
The rumor appeared to begin following news that ownership of Galleria Dallas transferred to property lenders last week. The Dallas Morning News reported that Metropolitan Life Insurance, or MetLife, took over the deed after a UBS Realty Investors partnership had been the owner since 2002.
The social media rumor claimed the mall was going to be torn down in favor of apartment buildings.
Due to the rumor garnering much attention, Freed released a statement to calm any fears that the mall would be closing.
"While the addition of multi-residential development to Galleria Dallas has been considered as one component of a potential long-term redevelopment project, the mall, along with its retail, dining and experiential entertainment features, is and will be the core of this Dallas destination," Freed said.
Located at the intersection of the Dallas North Tollway and Interstate 635, Galleria Dallas opened in 1982 and has been a shopping destination for the area ever since. It's home to the nation's tallest indoor Christmas tree and houses more than 140 stores and services.