Last Minute Plan Could Spare Wigwam

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The world's second-largest high school basketball gym may receive another reprieve. Our partners at the The Herald Bulletin report the Anderson Redevelopment Commission will consider a multi-step plan to spare the Wigwam from the wrecking ball. The commission will consider the request tomorrow and has less than 30 days to designate several acres of the property as a TIF district.

If the commission meets the Sept. 2 deadline, the Anderson Community School board of trustees is expected to transfer ownership of the complex to the redevelopment commission.

The ultimate plan is handing ownership of the property to a private developer who wants to turn classrooms into living space for seniors. The proposal also calls for vocational classes and reopening the Wigwam for sports.

The developer is expected to apply for state housing grants. The deadline to apply is Nov. 1. Designating the property as a TIF district scores higher points for the grant application.

This isn't the first time a developer has stepped forward to save the property. Last month, Wigwam Sports & Entertainment (WSE) LLC backed away from the table because of financial problems.

If the new plan falls through, the school district is expected to demolish the structure.

Source: The Herald Bulletin