Work on the Old Capitol Green is slated to begin in early 2008. Developers are hammering out the final details with state officials to acquire the land needed to make the project a reality.

Once completed, officials say the project will be a shot in the arm to Jackson's tourism industry and mean a boost in sales and property tax revenue for the city. Officials say the project would likely take between eight and 10 years to complete.

Pre-construction work on the project began in earnest about a year and a half ago.

About 18 months ago, Full Spectrum engaged in a dialogue with the state to obtain the land, said JBHM partner Richard McNeel. A year ago, the group made a formal announcement that they were heading up the project in the parking lot at Hal and Mal's on State Street.

In the last year, he said, engineers have worked to identify issues related to infrastructure, like storm water drainage and utilities, and the property acquisition.

Recently, architects and developers hosted a daylong eco charrette downtown. He described the event as an intense brainstorming session in which stakeholders involved with the project discussed how it could be made to be sustainable and environmentally friendly.

A report on the planning session showed those present set goals and strategies for energy and transportation, water management and for creating a livable, unique community. "It's a pretty challenging, but exciting thing," McNeel Said.

Once completed, the project will include 4,500 dwelling units, like hotel rooms and apartments, office spaces and cultural centers.

- Northside Sun, November 22, 2007