Currently, the site included auto and motorcycle shops, a funeral home, one house, and several small businesses. Their owners would be paid for their properties if the city decides to proceed with redevelopment, which it voted to do last night. However, these small businesses have expressed concern that it will be difficult for them to find new and affordable locations if the city uses eminent domain to take their properties.

Still, the city remained adamant that the best way to use the property is to redevelop the separate parcels as one. The city is currently looking for proposals and a master developer, saying that some developers have shown interest already. For example, the Olson Group has expressed a desire to develop 108 apartment units at the site.

The city hopes to select a master developer by March and begin construction in summer or fall of 2004, arguing that another Downtown project in this area will revitalize the neighborhood, bringing more people and business into this underdeveloped area.