The partnership of Maryville University, KEAT Properties, Keeley Properties and JEMA is bringing the region’s first Esports concept to life.

The proposed mixed-use development in Town and Country, Mo. features a multipurpose education, athletics and Esports venue. A separate residence hall will house 400 students and provide 6,000 SF for retail space.

The potential redevelopment of Woods Mill Center, located at 141 and Highway 64, is currently in the conceptual phase and plans have been filed with the Town and Country planning commission. If approved, the facility is poised to accommodate Maryville University‘s vision as well as elevate the level of athletic and social experiences for Maryville and the region.

Multiple commercial retail spaces, outdoor plazas and bike/pedestrian pathways are also included in the design. Approximately 1,300 parking spaces, most within a structured garage, will support the parking needs of both state-of-the-art facilities.

The project team is led by Dr. Mark Lombardi, Maryville president; and real estate developers, Greg Yawitz, president of KEAT Properties and Jason Braidwood, president of Keeley Properties. JEMA will serve as the lead architect, partnering with Populous as the Esports consultant and interior architect.

The goals of the redevelopment are aligned with Town & Country’s 20-Year Comprehensive Plan, which calls for a “vibrant and engaged community.”

“The project gives new life to a critical corner in need of revitalization,” said Rusty Keeley, CEO of Keeley Companies. “This development provides Maryville with the innovative, world-class spaces it deserves as one of the fastest-growing learning institutions in the country.”

In keeping with the goals of Town & Country, the team is actively working with city officials and traffic engineers to improve neighborhood traffic flow while enhancing streetscape and infrastructure.

“We are working closely with Maryville, the city of Town & Country, and MODOT to ensure positive outcomes for all stakeholders. We’ve engaged the neighboring subdivisions through trustees and an open forum meeting to introduce the proposed project, listen to feedback, and build excitement for the opportunity,” Yawitz said.

The KEAT Properties and Keeley Properties united development team has already brought notable projects to the St. Louis region, including CityPlace in Creve Coeur, Centene Plaza in Clayton, The Euclid in Central West End, Chroma in the Grove, Olive and Price Crossing in Olivette, Mo., and the Spire and Cupples 9 historic renovations in Downtown St. Louis.

Feature rendering courtesy of JEMA.