City seeks development proposals for south-side land

A 293-acre tract of city-owned land in southwest Springfield is up for sale.

The city today issued a request for proposals for potential sale and development of the land, which is no longer needed as a buffer zone around the Southwest Wastewater Treatment Plant, according to a news release. The property is bound by James River Freeway on the south, Kauffman Road and West Bypass on the east, Farm Road 156/Brookline Road on the north, and Farm Road 119/Hutchinson Road on the west.

The land was acquired in multiple parcels during the last 30 years. The city has solicited an independent appraisal of the property to estimate its fair market value.

Sale proceeds would be returned proportionately to the city's Sanitary Services Fund and General Fund; City Manager Greg Burris will recommend that any proceeds returned to the General Fund be applied to the Police and Fire Pension Plan, which is under-funded by nearly $200 million.

The deadline to submit proposals is 3 p.m. March 30. They will be judged on acquisition amount, qualifications, viability of a proposed development, quality and detail, and the potential to enhance tax bases and create jobs, according to the release.

To request additional information or submit proposals, contact Economic Development Director Mary Lilly Smith by mail at 840 Boonville Ave., Springfield, MO 65802, by phone at (417) 864-1094 or by e-mail at mlsmith@springfieldmo.gov.