Project Description: The 700+ acre master-planned district—known as The Oasis—combines retail, sports, entertainment, and hospitality uses to create a regional tourism anchor for southern Illinois.
The plan centers around a multi-field regional sports complex designed to attract tournaments and visitors from across the Midwest, complemented by outdoor recreation, shopping, dining, and family entertainment venues. The project positions Marion as a premier destination for sports tourism and economic growth, serving as a template for future STAR bond developments statewide.
Role & Involvement: CR Holland originated the concept and master planned the district from inception—developing the overall vision, site plan, and program mix. The firm structured the STAR bond financing strategy and led the financial, market, and district formation efforts necessary to secure approvals and establish the project framework.
Our team identified the opportunity for a regional sports complex as a catalytic anchor attraction and guided the early development, entitlement, and infrastructure planning efforts that positioned the project for feasibility and long-term success.
CR Holland’s role focused on the initial planning and district establishment phases. The firm has since concluded its involvement.
