Robert Rhett, the last of the five original members of the Columbus Redevelopment Authority, resigned from the position last month at a time when the CRA’s efforts to redevelop Burns Bottom were coming into focus.
With almost all of the lots purchased, a Planned Unit Development agreement with the city that creates a mixed-use plan for residences, offices, retail and restaurant, $3 million in state funding to begin infrastructure work and another possible $3.1 in federal grants, the project is gaining momentum.
Rhett made every step in the journey, but will not cross over, at least in any official capacity.
The CRA was formed in 2014 with just $50,000 of funding from the city. The best thing the CRA had at that juncture was a board made up of members with specific skills that would be needed in various redevelopment projects.
The makeup of the board has continued to be one of its biggest strengths.
With his expertise as a Realtor, Rhett played a crucial role as the CRA began to develop its plans. That expertise was particularly important when the CRA, on behalf of the Columbus Municipal School District, brokered a sale of the former Lee High School property to Scott Berry. Today, the property is the home of a beautiful multi-use facility.
Progress on the Burns Bottom development – a five block area immediately east of the Roger Short Soccer Complex – has come in fits and starts, as has the funding. In 2017, the city provided $3.2 million in bond funding to help purchase lots, begin site prep and market the project.
In April, Gov. Tate Reeves signed off on the state legislature’s $3 million appropriation for the project. That same month, the CRA said it had applied for $3.1 million in federal grants. The CRA should learn in a few weeks whether or not it will receive that grant.
Last month, the city council approved the CRA’s PUD plan, which laid out how the property would be used. When fully completed, the CRA estimates it will cost a developer between $20 million and $30 million to realize the project.
The Burns Bottom project, along with the redevelopment of Leigh Mall by The Hull Group, stands to be the most consequential project within the city limits in years. Once realized, both will serve as catalysts for additional development and growth.
We thank Rhett for his service throughout this long process and urge citizens with relative experience to step forward to fill his position.
The Dispatch Editorial Board is made up of publisher Peter Imes, columnist Slim Smith, managing editor Zack Plair and senior newsroom staff.
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