Demolition begins at Fenton Chrysler plants as county solicits new business ideas
KSKD
July 29, 2010
Fenton, MO -- As demolition begins at the Fenton Chrysler plants, the St. Louis County Economic Council, along with the Missouri Department of Economic Development and the City of Fenton, is soliciting strategies from firms to revitalize the former 300-acre site of the manufacturing plants.
These submissions cover strategies for turning the site into a multi-use commercial, an industrial research park or a renewable alternative energy technology park. Proposals will include employment opportunities for businesses and workers who were impacted by the closing of the Chrysler plants.
Fenton Mayor Dennis Hancock said the plant demolition comes with sadness for what it meant to the community and thousands of workers. He also said believes it's a new beginning for the nearly 300 acre site.
"I would think somebodys got something in mind , typically you don't demolish a structure unless you have got something to put in it's place," Hancock said.
In May 2010, the U.S. Department of Commerce awarded a $1.575 million grant to St. Louis County to diversify the economy and create jobs at the Fenton site. The county, state and Fenton authorities contributed a total of $525,000 to the overall grant.
Final submittal of qualifications will be due no later than August 3 at 5 p.m.
Denny Coleman is the president of the St. Louis County Economic Council.
"Particularly in the area of alternative energy, we think this is a real opportunity," said Coleman.
