Public Meeting Planned For POWERplex Site Selection

HAZELWOOD, MO — Big Sports Properties will announce a long-anticipated POWERplex development in either St. Peters or Hazelwood by March 1, developers say. Both communities have put forward partnership offers.

On Wednesday, the city of Hazelwood plans to bring a formal funding request to the Economic Development Committee of the St. Louis County Council in a public meeting on the project. The presentation will give specific site plans, economic impact numbers and plans to redevelop the Mills Mall into a youth sports tourism destination.

“This place is going to be absolutely remarkable,” said Hazelwood Mayor Matt Robinson. “In order to do something of this size and impact, it requires strong public-private partnerships. We are working closely with the city of Bridgeton on the project. Right now, both communities need St. Louis County to step up and help us get over the final funding hurdle."

One issue standing in the development's way is $36 million in Transportation Development District tax debt. “This is a failed mall and the developers of POWERplex can’t be expected to assume that immense debt,” said Robinson who is working on a cross-jurisdictional funding plan to help with infrastructure, field improvements and the TDD debt.

The meeting on Wednesday at 3 p.m. in County Council chambers will tackle the project's financing and the problem of the outstanding debt.

“Both communities have put forth great plans and great sites. The former Mills site can be truly magical, but it will take the support of the County and the Convention and Visitors Commission to make it happen,” said Dan Buck, managing partner for Big Sports Properties. “We’re ready to move and get this incredible family sports destination underway. Wednesday is a big day in deciding whether the Hazelwood site will be a viable option."

The meeting is scheduled for 3 p.m. and will take place in county council chambers in Clayton, located at 41 S. Central Avenue on the 9th floor. It is open to the public.

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