MEMPHIS, Tenn. — WREG has been telling you about the big plans for the old Sears building in Crosstown and their plans for a mixed-use living space.
Now it looks like Midtown could be next.
Belz Enterprises, the same group that brought Peabody Place Mall downtown, wants to build a $43 million dollar apartment complex. It would also have room for commercial space, including a grocery store. It’s located at Union Avenue and McLean.
Right now, a dated, empty building with broken windows and a chain link fence warning trespassers to stay away are what thousands of people traveling along Union see every day.
“This is such a good location to have an apartment,” said Rhodes College junior Drake St. John.
St. John is one of those people who sees the blighted building often.
He thinks the $43 million mixed-use development project is ideal.
An application filed by Belz Enterprises to the Center City Development Corporation showed plans for 188 apartments, parking, commercial space and more than 30,000 square feet for a national gourmet grocery store.
“Having a grocery store or other amenities right where you live is very convenient and attractive,” said Paul Morris with the Downtown Memphis Commission and Center City Revenue Finance Corporation.
Morris supports the plan to revitalize the blighted property. Other places in Memphis like the old Sears building in Crosstown is getting a facelift for mixed development.
However one spot that isn’t is the old Peabody Place Mall, which was also developed by Belz. It’s located right in the heart of Downtown and has sat vacant for years.
“I’ve seen social media movement to try and attract a Target to Peabody Place, and that would be fantastic,” said Morris.
However he admitted that doesn’t look like it will be happening anytime soon, but said Belz does have full intention to bring the building back to life. As for Belz’ Midtown project he said don’t start shopping yet; there’s still a long road ahead.
Belz did not return requests for a comment.
They go before the Center City Revenue Finance Corporation next week. According to their application, they would like to begin construction next June.