The city of Moline is working on 2 economic development projects that could bring dozens of jobs. One is a major re-development and the other would bring new businesses to the Illinois Quad Cities.
A private developer would like to buy and re-develop the old Menards building on John Deere Road. The developer has 4 letters of intent from businesses who would like to move into the building. 3 of the businesses are new to the Illinois Quad Cities and one is brand new to the area.
The city is not releasing specific information about the businesses, because council was supposed to approve offering the developer tax incentives at Tuesday's council meeting. However, at the last minute the item was pulled from the agenda. The move was at the request of the developer who says there are still some loose ends with financing. However, city officials are confident the building will be sold.
"It's really important for the city, because it's a pretty significant sized building that's over 20-years old. To have a developer come forward that's willing to reinvest in the community and to take advantage of the location on John Deere Road is a really good sight," says Ray Forsythe, Moline Planning and Economic Development Director.
Also at city council alderman heard an update on the re-development of SouthPark Mall. The SouthPark Mall task force is still meeting the mall's owner, Macerich, on a regular basis. There were 2 meeting this summer where a Macerich representative indicated preliminary plans are underway. The mall's owner also asked the city to work with the Illinois Department on Transportation on changes to access the mall.
"We're looking at better ways to give access off of John Deere Road," adds Forsythe, "Especially off of I-74 to get onto the mall property. Hopefully by increasing the ease to get in and out of the property it will attract some retailers into the site."
Part of the deal to re-development the mall is the owner would like tax incentives. Alderman set a date for a public hearing about creating a new tax incentive district for the project. The meeting is set for October 23rd during the city council meeting.
