Crews wrapping up demolition of Earthgrains plant

Crews are wrapping up demolition of the former Earthgrains bakery site to make way for a 160-unit student-housing complex across from Hammons Field.

The demolition of the 1028 St. Louis St. site on over four acres began about a month ago.

Austin, Texas-based student-housing developer Aspen Heights in May secured Springfield City Council approval for 100 percent property tax abatement on new improvements for the first 10 years and 50 percent on new improvements for years 11-25. An attorney speaking on behalf of the developer at council last year indicated the facility would generate an estimated $3.2 million in new taxes, according to Springfield Business Journal archives.

The roughly $38 million project calls for 564 beds. Jerry Bumgarner, owner of Jerry Bumgarner Trucking, is listed as the contractor for demolition work at the site, according to building permits filed with the city.

Aspen Heights officials could not be reached for additional comment by deadline for project details.