ST. PAUL, Minn. (From news reports) -- Smurfit Westrock says it intends to prepare its closing St. Paul paper recycling facility site for sale and redevelopment "as soon as possible" following a planned closure this summer.
The company announced this month it would close the facility near Raymond and University avenues at the end of June, after 118 years in operation under various names. Company spokespeople have declined phone interviews, but they recently confirmed the intent to sell the property, as many business advocates have hoped.
The company "has developed a comprehensive plan to remove manufacturing materials from the site, clean process tanks and take other actions to ensure the site is left in a secure and environmentally sound condition," said a spokesperson for Smurfit Westrock in an email. "Our intention is to decommission the site so that we can position it for sale as soon as possible."
Nearly 200 workers will be let go from the facility, which manufactures coated recycled boards, when it shuts down June 30. The core facility spans 25 acres, though Smurfit Westrock owns a total of 40 acres across the site.
The property generates around $300,000 in annual property taxes. Business advocates such as the St. Paul Port Authority are eager to see light industrial redevelopment there that could bring in more jobs and a greater tax base.
Meanwhile, some real estate agents see potential for a residential component, given its proximity to Interstate 94, the Green Line light rail and other retail and restaurant amenities. The site is one light rail stop away from the Fresh Thyme grocery on University Avenue.
