County Seeking New Proposal

For Vacant Jamestown Mall

    There’s a new request for proposals (RFP) available for developers to offer plans for Jamestown Mall, the once thriving mall in North County closed since 2014. The St. Louis County Port Authority, which owns the mall, announced Jan 24 that new request for proposals will be excepted until April 30. The Port Authority will consider purchase price, financing, job creation, experience and the kind of project developers would be seeking for the site.
The vacant property is a major eyesore drawing vermin and some vagrants with little maintenance over the past few years. This all followed a year-long legal battle between former County Executive Steve Stenger and the County Council for control of the property. The Port Authority for the past several months has secured the building, providing weed control and maintained other issues.
A Kansas City firm had sought to redo the mall into warehouses, but backed out of the plan, thus the Port Authority decided to seek new RFPs.
Powerplex Progressing

   While Jamestown Mall sits, two major developments for malls are being implemented. The former massive St. Louis Mills Mall is being reborn as a major regional Sports complex called Powerplex. In its beginning stages of development, the mall has inside volleyball courts already and big plans for new ball fields, Pickleball courts, 3 wood basketball courts and a huge indoor area for dance and cheer events.
Also in the plan are a new food court, the reopening of the former Regal Theatre, and new hotels and restaurants nearby to accommodate the expected visitors from outstate coming to the Hazelwood area for amateur sports competitions. The Ice Zone remains open for amateur leagues and practice.
New Plans For Village Square

   A second major announcement came last month on plans by New York-based Somera Road Inc. to revitalize Village Square with private grants including free rent for qualifying small businesses. Already in the redevelopment process, the recipients will be able to start off with zero base rent as part of a financial package that will be offered. Up to $10,000 will be available for start-up businesses.
To apply for the Village Square Small Business Grant, visit www.villagesquaregrant.com For more information about Somera Road Inc., visit www.someraroadinc.com

   While two major North County projects are moving forward, Jamestown Mall still sits awaiting redevelopment or a turn-down.
Add the development of the 425 acre St. Louis Zoo expansion coming at the old Plumbers and Pipefitters property in Spanish Lake, it appears that North County is in the beginings of a new boom.                          -Bob Lindsey

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