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RDA Report: Extensions, Housing Lots, Corridor Remediation and Leasing Efforts Under Way
Summary
RDA staff updated commissioners on Mill On Main and Merge extension requests, housing and corridor projects, Sawyer Street demolition, and efforts to recruit commercial tenants and developers for multiple downtown projects.
RDA staff provided a broad update on downtown and near-downtown development projects, telling commissioners that several developers have requested schedule extensions and that the authority is coordinating on housing, corridor remediation and infrastructure timing.
Mill On Main: Staff said the Mill On Main development has requested a one-year extension for phase 2, which the city plans to take to city council. An updated cash-projection form prepared with financial advisor Ehlers indicates the timing should remain within the Tax Increment District (TID) cash flow, staff said. Staff added that Mill On Main is already starting leasing efforts and that commercial leasing work and dock configuration remain topics of ongoing negotiation.
Merge and other amendments: Merge has asked to amend its timeline for Building 3, requesting a new start date of Dec. 31, 2026, with completion 20 months later; staff said Ehlers reviewed the timetable and analysis and found no immediate fiscal concern. Staff noted this would be the third amendment to Merge’s original development agreement.
Housing and lots: The Washington School redevelopment is moving forward; council awarded contracts for right-of-way, stormwater and grading work and staff are coordinating with the awarded contractor on schedules. The city is also preparing an RFP for nine city lots, coordinating timing with Habitat for Humanity and contractor availability. Staff said the timing for the RFP will hinge on contractor schedules and coordination to avoid wasted cover-cropping or missed construction windows.
Corridor project and remediation: Staff described environmental remediation costs that exceeded the project budget and said the city shifted some Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds to partially offset the overrun.
Sawyer Street / Oshkosh Ave: Properties on Sawyer Street and Oshkosh Avenue have been demolished and the RDA is holding work pending bridge reconstruction timing from the Department of Transportation; if DOT delays the bridge work, the city may proceed with Oshkosh Avenue work separately.
Other updates: Staff reported a local daycare lease arrangement is in place and would produce a two-shift daycare once the building is ready. Mercury Marine responded to outreach and will meet with its executive team in coming weeks before confirming next steps on a parking-related issue. The property at 42 Mill Street is slated for a physical move this October pending DOT permitting; staff said they will coordinate media and promotion around the move.
Staff asked commissioners to note these items will likely move to council for decisions on individual extensions; RDA members asked to remain informed as items are scheduled.
