In a recent government meeting, Arlington Mayor Wissman presented an ambitious mixed-use development project poised to transform a key area near Shelby County. The project, strategically located at the intersection of Highway 4385, aims to capitalize on its visibility and accessibility, particularly in light of the nearby Blue Oval SK facility.

The proposed development will feature a blend of residential and commercial spaces, including three hotels with approximately 360 rooms, 360,000 square feet of retail and office space, and light industrial facilities. The residential component will consist of 114 flats, 37 townhomes, and 600 lofts, alongside an additional 10,000 square feet of commercial space.

Mayor Wissman highlighted the challenges posed by the site's floodplain status, which includes a creek that will be integrated into the design with amenities such as a shared-use trail, disc golf course, and dog park. Despite these challenges, the project is expected to preserve 55 acres of open space and enhance connectivity within the community.

The economic implications of the development are significant, with an estimated overall economic impact of $3.8 billion. This includes projected new wages of $1 billion, $542 million in construction-related economic impact, and an anticipated $21.6 million in new city taxes. The project is also expected to create approximately 2,216 temporary construction jobs and 1,700 permanent jobs.

The mayor emphasized that this development represents the largest in Arlington's history and is crucial for the county's growth, aiming to attract residents to live, work, and play within Shelby County. To facilitate the necessary infrastructure improvements, the project will require a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) arrangement.

Overall, the meeting underscored the potential of this development to significantly boost the local economy while addressing the challenges of the site.