Greenwood ‘Eyesore’ Could Have New Future
(Image courtesy of the city of Greenwood.)
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowThe city of Greenwood is looking to buy an abandoned strip mall near the Greenwood Park Mall. Plans call for the city’s redevelopment commission to offer approximately $1 million to acquire the nearly 9-acre property that once housed the former Patriot’s Grill restaurant. Officials call the land a "local eyesore" and say it could be turned into a park or gateway to the city.
The city says the majority of the property has been federally designated as a flood plain after heavy rains led to flooding in 2008, which hinders the possibility of commercial development. Plans for the property will be discussed if the city can reach a deal to acquire it.
Mayor Mark Myers says the city has considered a deal for a while and the property has "significant transformation" potential. "this is a very important piece of land for Greenwood. The property is right across the street from Greenwood Park Mall, a major destination for both residents and visitors. It’s also one of the first things you see traveling south into Greenwood on Madison Ave. We now have the opportunity to turn what was once a negative into a valuable community asset."
The redevelopment commission has scheduled a vote about purchasing the land for August 8. Negotiations with the current owner could begin following approval.