Proposed $5.5M redevelopment planned for former Gateway Regional site in Edwardsville

The mixed-use project near Illinois 157 could bring new commercial development to the property.

Mar. 10, 2026 at 6:50pm

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A proposed mixed-use development near Illinois 157 in Edwardsville, Illinois could bring new commercial development to property that previously housed the former Gateway Regional Medical facility. The developer, University Park Plaza LLC, plans to invest a minimum of $5.5 million in property acquisition, infrastructure, utilities and roadway improvements at the site.

Why it matters

The redevelopment of the former Gateway Regional Medical facility site represents an opportunity to revitalize a commercial area in Edwardsville that has seen recent property crimes and the closure of the previous medical facility. The proposed mixed-use project could attract new businesses and investment to the area.

The details

University Park Plaza LLC is working with the city of Edwardsville on subdivision plans and a possible business district for the 3-parcel site at 1261 University Drive near Illinois 157. The city council approved an inducement resolution that allows certain redevelopment expenses to qualify for reimbursement if the city later creates a business district for the project. The developer is seeking the business district, which would allow the city to impose up to an additional 1% sales tax within the designated area to fund infrastructure and other eligible costs.

  • On March 3, 2026, the Edwardsville City Council approved an inducement resolution related to the project in a 5-2 vote.
  • Construction will not begin until after the subdivision plat and business district are approved by the city.

The players

University Park Plaza LLC

The developer planning to invest a minimum of $5.5 million in the mixed-use redevelopment project.

Chris Byron

Attorney for University Park Plaza LLC and managing partner for Byron, Carlson, Petri & Kalb LLC in Edwardsville.

James Arnold

Director of economic and community development for the city of Edwardsville.

Elizabeth Grant

Alderwoman for the city of Edwardsville who discussed the recent burglaries at the property and the need for demolition of the former Gateway Regional Medical facility.

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What they’re saying

“Additionally, while the development company that owns the land is University Park Plaza LLC, the actual name of the subdivision is still being considered.”

— Chris Byron, Attorney for University Park Plaza LLC and managing partner for Byron, Carlson, Petri & Kalb LLC

“The business district does not cost the city of Edwardsville any sales tax revenue.”

— Chris Byron, Attorney for University Park Plaza LLC and managing partner for Byron, Carlson, Petri & Kalb LLC

“If the developer approaches the city and requests and receives approval for a business district, then the inducement resolution allows for costs currently occurring to be recaptured after the business district is established based on the dates established by the inducement resolution.”

— James Arnold, Director of economic and community development for the city of Edwardsville

What’s next

Construction will not begin until after the subdivision plat and business district are approved by the city.

The takeaway

The proposed redevelopment of the former Gateway Regional Medical facility site represents an opportunity for Edwardsville to attract new commercial investment and revitalize an area that has faced recent challenges. The use of a business district financing tool could help make the project viable for the developer while also generating additional tax revenue for the city.