Restoration St. Louis pulls out from Heer's

The city called the firm's choice to withdraw from the process a "corporate decision" made in its best interest, according to a city news release. Restoration St. Louis spokesman Richard Callow would not comment on the firm's decision but released a statement from company principal Amrit Gill: "Heer's is a wonderful building that could be an important part of revitalizing Springfield some day. We wish the city the success it expects."

City Economic Development Director Mary Lilly Smith said city officials were "very, very surprised" by the Gills' decision, but efforts began immediately to move forward with McGowan|Walsh, also of St. Louis.

"We're going to move as fast as we can through the negotiation process," Smith said. "We're going to be working with (Kevin McGowan) on the deal points of his building acquisition and his construction schedule, and we hope to have something to council very quickly."

Restoration St. Louis' plan included an acquisition and renovation of downtown's Woodruff and McDaniel buildings in conjunction with the Heer's project.

McGowan|Walsh's proposal for Heer's calls for an upscale, boutique hotel or condominium lofts overlooking a spruced-up square, a Mike Shannon's Steaks and Seafood Restaurant on the ground floor if a hotel is confirmed, and banquet space on the top floor, which would include an all-glass addition with a walk-out viewing deck.[[In-content Ad]]