McAlester City Manager Dave Andren reported on multiple economic development projects in his monthly city update, including ongoing construction, new business openings, and infrastructure work.
Construction is continuing on the Amazon facility, with hiring expected to begin in September, according to the report. Planning for a second Tax Increment Finance (TIF) District is underway, and developers are in discussions with companies for potential retail development.
Preliminary conversations have started regarding a new data center and a hotel and convention center. The city is also considering a purchase option for the Krebs Brewery property.
Infrastructure projects included final-phase work on the airport project, sewer line extensions at Steven Taylor Industrial Park, and high service pump maintenance at the wastewater plant. In the industrial sector, “Project Lazarus” is in the planning stage and would add a second rail entrance to support increased logistical capacity.
Commercial construction is active at several sites. Popeyes and HTeaO are under development. Jersey Mike’s has opened and is operating at its new location. RaceTrac Fuels completed a site visit and is in the early design phase.
The report also noted that some downtown businesses are evaluating expansion opportunities. Recent commercial openings near city limits, including an Alsup’s location, were included in the update.