The $105 million redevelopment project would bring a hotel, performing arts theater, office and retail space to the area near the Grand River Avenue and Abbot Road intersection.

A parking garage also would be built on Evergreen Avenue.

Strathmore Development Co. is charged with developing the project, which officials have said would revitalize the city’s economy and bring new jobs and visitors to East Lansing.

The predevelopment agreement would give city officials extra time to examine all financial documents related to the project, which has been fraught with issues ranging from property foreclosures to thousands of dollars of unpaid property taxes.

The agreement would allow demolition to start at 303 N. Abbot Road, a building owned by the city’s Downtown Development Authority.

If demolition does not start before Friday, the project’s site plan and special use permit will expire, meaning new documents would have to be resubmitted for city approval.

According to draft documents of a comprehensive financial agreement related to the project, the developer recently secured $50 million in private construction financing for the project, with an additional $7 million in funding expected to come from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation including a $3.2 million loan.

City council members have stressed a cautious approach to the project but now are pressed for time with the approaching deadline.

The council discussed the predevelopment agreement March 20 and March 27 but failed to come to an agreement.

With an important decision on the line, city officials and the project’s developer are reflecting on the project.

Tuesday’s council meeting starts at 7:30 p.m. at City Hall, 410 Abbot Road. Audience members may speak during the council meeting before the council is scheduled to address the consent agenda.

Community voices

Tim Dempsey
East Lansing Planning and Community Development Director

“I think, from the previous two discussions … the majority of council members are comfortable with how we’re proceeding with the detailed due diligence.”

Scott Chappelle
Strathmore President

“Strathmore Development Co. is grateful for all of the community support received relative to the project. The emails, letters and postings are encouraging, and we remain hopeful that this project becomes a reality.”

Don Power
Councilmember

“If this doesn’t go right, what’s our exit strategy? I think we need to also develop … a strategic list of pluses and minuses (related to the project).”

Kendall Bolden
Communication senior

“Some sort of rejuvenation of the buildings might be nice, at least exteriorwise.”