By Harry McCawley, The Republic
harry@therepublic.com
The Commons Mall is being considered by a major manufacturer as the site for a four-story office complex that could employ up to 500 people, according to officials with the Columbus Redevelopment Commission.
Tom Vujovich, president of the Columbus Redevelopment Commission, said that he expects the company, which he declined to name, to make an announcement before the end of the year.
"We are one of a number of other communities that are under consideration for this project," Vujovich said. "Obviously, if the Commons site is selected, it will have a profound and very positive impact on the downtown."
Part of that effect will be the sudden infusion of a work force of 250 to 500.
"These will be well-paying jobs," said Ed Curtin, executive director of the commission.
Officials estimated the average annual salary would be in the $50,000 range.
One of the most immediate effects of a positive decision would be the need for a second parking garage in the downtown area.
Major funding for that second garage would be sought from the state of Indiana through an economic development grant, according to Vujovich.
"We have said in the past that there could be the possibility of more than one parking garage in the downtown if the development demands it. Obviously, with these kind of numbers, a parking solution is imperative."
The office complex would be part of a three-stage private sector investment in the Commons.
All three stages would be in space between the public portion of the Commons which fronts Washington Street and the Sears complex which will be split off from the rest of the mall at Jackson Street.
A new hotel, Candlewood Suites, is slated to occupy the portion at Fourth and Jackson streets. Redevelopment officials expect the hotel (being developed by Tim Dora who is also developing the soon-to-be opened Hotel Indigo) will be flanked by the conference center space.
The office complex would be at the corner of Third and Jackson streets.
All of those properties would be privately owned.
Vujovich said that negotiations with the prospective tenant began 12 weeks ago and have moved quickly since then.
"If all goes well, the tenant would hope to move into the office complex in early 2009," he said.