We’ve been asked a few times about the second exit from the mezzanine level of the Tysons Corner metro station which is currently chained and gated. There is some confusion about where that will eventually lead, whether it will be public, and if it will help people avoid crossing the road below to get to the mall. The walkway does indeed lead to both the new high rise office and residential buildings, as well as the open plaza in front of the mall. The access will be to the public and it is the hope of mall developer Macerich that it becomes a new front door to the mall, helping people avoid crossing the road below to get the Lord & Taylor and the rest of the mall.
The delay in it’s opening is due to the construction VITA tower, nearly 350′ above, which will extend into the fall. VITA does appear to be close to a crucial point in its construction process, with the window elements now approaching the top of the tower. The crane will be necessary until this, and the ensuing mechanical equipment, is installed. Officials at Macerich anticipate September to be a partial second opening for some items along the plaza level, including a new restaurant, and the much anticipated Zara. The final end of the project will likely be in early 2015 when both VITA and the new Hyatt begin occupancy.
