Jackson Free Press

The Jackson Redevelopment Authority's Oct. 27 board meeting saw few major steps forward but many hints at future projects.

JRA Executive Director Jason Brookins told board members that several developers have expressed interest in the old Holiday Inn property on Highway 80.

Brookins said that he was in preliminary discussions with some landowners around the Farish Street Entertainment District about development plans beyond district. Future JRA projects in the area would almost certainly include land acquisition, Brookins said.

Ward 7 Councilwoman Margaret Barrett-Simon has suggested the possibility of expanding the "urban renewal area" designation that currently covers the Jackson Medical Mall to include the industrial park at Mayes and Lawson streets.

Board members also delayed a decision on contributing to an arena feasibility study by consulting firm Populous.

A study committee including Downtown Jackson Partners and other business representatives has already commissioned Populous for the study and solicited private support, but JRA lawyers said that they needed more time to review the details of a potential contribution.

The board moved to a closed session to discuss the payment of back rent on office space at Union Station with former law partners David Watkins and Jim Young.

Board members directed Brookins to meet with both Watkins and Young to settle on a figure for back rent before renewing their leases.