The city of University City continues to move forward with a proposed $200 million development on Olive Blvd. between Woodson and I-170. The whole project is a terrible idea and perhaps the worst thing University City has ever attempted. Values that have long been cherished in the city — citizen participation, diversity, inclusion and concern for all citizens — are being badly trampled on by U.City officials as they push the project.
The proposal would result in nearly 70 homes, 58 apartments, two churches and a school being torn down. A neighborhood that is largely made up of African-American residents would be destroyed. Also, many small but thriving businesses on Olive, mostly owned by minorities, would have to relocate. A certain number would likely never reopen.
Just about everything on 50 acres would be bulldozed to make way for a big-box store — likely to be a Costco — and some other retailers and maybe a hotel and luxury apartments. The developer wants a $70 million subsidy from taxpayers that is being considered by the University City Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Commission.
The Olive/ 170 development is a bad deal for those residents who would lose their homes and the small businesses who would be displaced. It is also a bad deal for University City. You don’t build up a city by tearing it down.
Tom Sullivan
751 Syracuse Avenue
(314) 727-2242
Note: The University City TIF Commission will have a public hearing on the proposed project on Friday, June 22 at 6 p.m. at University City High School, 7401 Balson.