Lewis Rice Attorneys Secure New 30-Year Agreement for Forest Park Forever
September 4, 2024Lewis Rice attorneys David W. Sweeney and Emily K. Bardon recently assisted Forest Park Forever with the passage of Board Bill 66, which establishes a new agreement to amend and renew the public-private partnership between Forest Park Forever and the City of St. Louis. This agreement, set to take effect when the current deal expires in 2026, allows for a potential 30-year partnership, including two optional five-year renewals.
The agreement ensures Forest Park Forever's continued role in maintaining and enhancing the 1,300-acre park, building on its 40-year legacy. The commitment also includes an $85 million redevelopment plan for the Steinberg ice skating rink and its surroundings in eastern Forest Park. Now with the board bill having Mayor Tishaura Jones' signature and becoming law, it represents a significant step in the ongoing efforts to preserve and improve one of St. Louis' most treasured landmarks.
To learn more about the agreement, click under "Resources" below. Please note, the St. Louis Business Journal link is accessible only by St. Louis Business Journal subscribers.
David focuses on lobbying, governmental and finance matters; municipal and public law; government affairs; zoning, land use, tax increment financing, community improvement districts, and other development incentives. His experience ranges from drafting and overseeing implementation of legislation regarding tax increment financing, community improvement districts, special business districts, transportation development districts, and property tax abatements to representation of governmental entities in a variety of real estate development and finance matters.
Emily represents both publicly and privately held companies across several industries, including fashion, consumer goods, food and beverage, entertainment, technology and manufacturing. She works closely with clients on corporate and transactional matters ranging from mergers and acquisitions to the negotiation and drafting of various commercial contracts, and she is experienced in advising state and nationally certified women-owned businesses.
