the new MSU administration, which slowed things down a bit. Apparently, they've gotten past that minor problem in the last couple of weeks. Also, rrom what I understand, things are moving along as far as acquiring the property.
still between the developers and MSU concerning what the University's role will be. Originally MSU was to sell the Cooley Building and 11 acres to the developers. That transaction was approved by IHL. Recently the developers told Keenum that part of the funding requirement is that MSU must lease space at the rate of $600,000 per year for 10 years for a total $6 million commitment. Keenum didn't want to do that so they are trying to work it out. When MSU and its board come up with a proposal they will submit it to IHL. Don't think that there has been a new proposal submitted to IHL yet. Per the GOZone bond requirements the retail tenants have to take possession by Oct. 2010 so they need to get going with it.
It by "difficulty" you mean the developers trying to strong arm the new administration into something that wasn't originally agreed to, then you are correct. The people at MSU were shocked and a little pissed when the article came out last month which made it appear the developers were positioning things to make it look like the project might fail because of the university's financial involvement.
Most people involved think it will go forward. The question is whether the Convention Center will be included when dirt starts moving.
And is exactly on point with everything he said. We just finished our portion of the project and it's back in the University's hands now. They are ironing out the details and will be presenting a new proposal to the IHL in the next few days. The biggest hang up is stemming from regulations made by the National Historic Trust.