"There's a lot of interest in that site," Collins says. "We think we can create up to 300 jobs on that site."

The company, which asked the Port Authority not to identify it, had to withdraw due to internal business reasons, but has not given up its interest in the site.

About $4.9 million has been spent to clean it up and turn it into an industrial park. The agency had been negotiating with the firm for about six months. Some nearby residents were happy about the news, given their preference for several small buildings and employers rather than one large building and employer. The neighborhood helped put together the original plans that called for five or so light-manufacturing firms in smaller buildings that would fit better into the surroundings.

"We're going to follow the community vision as best we can," Collins said. "If another similar business comes along, however, we will have to consider it."

In December, the Minnesota Department of Trade and Economic Development awarded the port authority a $1.2-million redevelopment grant to complete the acquisition of the Maxson Steel site and for infrastructure improvements there.

The site is bounded by Dale Street on the west, Como Avenue on the east, Topping on the north and Burlington Northern railroad tracks on the south.

Instant Insights /

Major Tenant Drops Out of Great Northern Business Park Project

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