Business & Tech

Centrum Properties Presents Crestwood Court Redevelopment Plan

'The District at Crestwood' is the proposed name for the new development.

The focal point of the redeveloped could be a multipurpose plaza that will host concerts; farmer’s markets; book fairs; arts and crafts, dance and theater. After months of waiting, Centrum Properties finally unveiled their proposal for the defunct Crestwood Court at this week’s Board of Aldermen meeting.

Sol Barket of Centrum presented the concept Tuesday night. He and his brother grew up in the area, and he said that Crestwood Mall used to be the “mall of choice.” 

“It was always ‘our mall.’ This wasn’t just something we pursued because dollar signs were in the air. It was the opposite—it is sentimental and something very unique and special,” he said.

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The proposal hinged on the fact that families have become closer and stronger. They no longer want to drive far and want to support local establishments, especially in the “strong and loyal” community of Crestwood. Centrum’s goal is to create something unique and special for the entire St. Louis region, to be a true outdoor community focused on family entertainment and community gathering.

Barket realized that people in the community are concerned and frustrated. He said that Centrum is not there to create a new core; they only want to create a unique experience for the existing core.

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Besides the TIF, Barket said that this could be a $100 million project. In the proposal, most of the current site would be razed and reconstructed. The space that was formerly Macy’s would stay and be redeveloped into a fitness club, grocery store and cinemas. A comedy club or other types of live theater uses also are possible under the new plan. 

The former Dillard’s garage under the Centrum plan would be a new “Toby Keith’s Bar and Grill.”

Crestwood Mayor Jeff Schlink said that one of the things that people are going to get hung up on is that part of the existing property will be torn down.

"I think you need to reiterate that you aren’t putting a mall in here, you are putting in an entertainment complex," Schlink said.

The proposed redevelopment includes 310,000 square feet in phase one. There is a second proposed phase, which could include more space and housing. Centrum said that they are still working on proposed details of the second phase, however the first phase is designed to connect to the second phase.

Residents will have a chance to speak at an upcoming town hall meeting regarding the renovation. Date to be determined.


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