It's impossible to imagine that Kubla Khan's vision of Xanadu bore any resemblance to the monumental (some would say monstrous) mall project of the same name that is growing on the edge of the Meadowlands swamp in northern New Jersey.
The project, which has been beset with financial challenges, environmental challenges and critics who know ugly when they see it, continues to move forward largely as the result of one man's unwavering commitment to the 2.4-million-squaree-foot entertainment and shopping complex.
That man, Laurence Siegel, is the driving force behind Xanadu, a $2.3 billion project that when complete will include features such as the first indoor ski slope in the U.S., a wind tunnel for sky diving lessons, a wave machine for indoor surfing, and a 287-foot-high Ferris wheel (Pepsi logo positioned prominently in the middle) that will offer riders close-up looks at the Manhattan skyline. Xanadu will also include a movie multiplex with an Egyptian theme (locals scratching their heads over that), dining options galore and acre-upon-acre of upscale shopping destinations.
As a New York Times article pointed out, many who have seen the plans and renderings of the project have reacted adversely. Richard J. Codey, president of the New Jersey State Senate, described it as "yucky-looking." Others, RetailWire has been told by local sources, refer to the project now as "Xanadudu."
No matter the naysayers, Mr. Siegel is convinced that Xanadu's success will dwarf its massive size. "Look at the majestic nature of this space. You're going to come here just for the 'omigod' factor," he told The Times.
As the project has begun to take shape, concerns have been raised about the appearance of the complex. The sight of its multicolored anodized aluminum exteriors led to Sen. Codey's comments.
Mr. Siegel said all would be well when the project is complete. He compared criticisms of Xanadu with "judging the Sistine Chapel after Michelangelo put on the first coat of paint."
The bright colors of the mall will be partially obscured by the Ferris wheel and signs and landscaping will create an effect Mr. Siegel believes will set Xanadu apart (favorably) from all other malls.
According to Mr. Siegel, 60 percent of the mall's space has been leased and that negotiations are underway for 20 more. The density of the population living within a short distance of the mall and the business opportunity it represents has kept tenants from backing out, he said, despite current economic conditions.
Carl J. Goldberg, chairman of the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority, said the project would succeed because it's not just another mall. Someone who tries out the indoor wave pool for surfing can buy a surfboard at Xanadu.
"It is not a mall, it will not operate like a mall, and people won't go to it like a mall," Mr. Goldberg said. "That's the difference."
Discussion Questions: What do you think of the Meadowlands Xanadu strategy to create a huge retail and entertainment complex? Are these types of developments in line with where the consuming public is headed?