Marina Cove Redevelopment

MEMPHIS, Tenn. - The Marina Cove Apartments could soon get a face lift. The apartment complex has been abandoned for seven years and has become a public nuisance.

Neighbors said the complex is infested with mosquitoes, rats, snakes and tires and something needs to be done. Now, redevelopment is being considered by Shelby County.

Two months ago Shelby County Commissioner Steve Mulroy made a comment about an abandoned Hickory Hill apartment complex.

"This is Marina Cove which is either the worst problem property in all of Memphis or certainly tied for that honor."

Now that spot may be no longer a nuisance to the people who live in that area, thanks to Power Center Community Development Corporation.

The local developer has struck a deal with the properties California based owner, allowing them to purchase the space and tear it down, as long as a deal is reached by June 30th. Power Center plans to redevelop the area after it's demolished, making it a place for the entire Hickory Hill community.

"One aspect of the development will be a charter school site instead of having an auditorium inside the school. We're looking to give back to the community and make it a performing arts center so the community can take advantage as well," said Derwin Sisnett, Executive Director Power Center.

Also a part of their plan is a social health care center and space for commercial businesses. Something Chairman Harold Collins said is needed for the area.

"The next phase is to see that that not just that property but the entire area is re-developed re-designed and contributing to the community as it's suppose to," said Collins.

The Power Center group said, while marina cove may still be standing, they already have plans for when it is brought to the ground.

"The master planning should end sometime around September- October. We look to break ground in the first quarter of next year once the demolition is complete," said Sisnett.

"It means the Hickory Hill community and the Fox Meadows community can begin to restore itself to where it once was; where family homes were valued greater than they are now," said Collins.