California Developer Lays Foundation for Gulf Coast Projects

Apr 26th, 2005

Andrew Oliver & Associates Opens Southeast Development Office in Mobile

(Mobile, Ala.) - Mobile native Andrew Oliver says he knows a good thing when he sees it. The right project, the right site - and the right person to do the job. The project - Mobile's upcoming $60 million dollar mix of waterfront condominiums and retail space. The location - the foot of Government Street. The right person - the man who's been a part of Mobile's transformation over the past six years: Steve Walker.

"Steve Walker has been a critical part of the downtown renaissance that drew us back to Mobile in the first place,” Andrew Oliver said. "He understands our commitment to the downtown living experience and creating a way for Mobilians to return to the waterfront. Steve's hiring is a benchmark for this particular project and a reflection of our enthusiasm for and commitment to the Gulf Coast area in general."

Walker becomes Vice President of Land Development in the Southeast for Oliver and partner Jim Maloney of California. Walker's role will include serving as eyes and ears for the developer in the waterfront condominium/retail project slated for the old CSX site at the foot of Government Street - along with other potential projects in the area. He'll begin work June 1 for Oliver & Associates. The California-based development team opens its Mobile office in a restored home on Royal Street in Fort Conde Village.

"For years my dream job has been changing the skyline of Mobile,” says Walker. "The opportunity with Oliver & Associates allows me to continue that dream by bringing people back to downtown - not just tourists and visitors. Our City is well on the path toward increasing tourism, and this position allows me to continue to focus on bringing families back downtown to live," Walker said.

"Steve with his background and experience has greatly assisted city leaders and downtown property owners during the past six years in our development efforts. It is my strong opinion that Steve can do more for the city in his new private-sector role. We have not lost Steve. We have empowered him with a private-sector partnership that will continue to develop our historic downtown with retail, condos and entertainment," Mayor Mike Dow said.

"Steve brings extensive knowledge about real estate, development, marketing and the unique culture of Mobile. The Port City is poised for growth - just waiting to be discovered and we are ready to partner with local Mobile-based companies to create an opportunity for Mobilians to enjoy downtown, and to live there as well," said Maloney.

Walker will be responsible for the administrative coordination of all consultants and development activities, manage day-to-day operations as well as, project acquisition, site selection, and initial development concepts for additional projects in the Southeast.

Walker most recently served as a member of Mayor Mike Dow's executive staff as the Director of Historic and Downtown Redevelopment. He played an active role in projects including the GM&O Terminal renovation, the development of the RSA Tower, the effort to recruit the Carnival cruise ship Holiday and the development of Mobile Landing including the Alabama Cruise Terminal. He has also worked closely with the Historic Redevelopment Commission and Main Street Mobile.

Walker holds an undergraduate degree from Columbus State University in business and marketing. His broad experience includes management roles with several shopping center developers including The Rouse Company, General Growth Properties and CBL & Associates - current owners of Springdale Mall in Mobile.
Oliver & Associates has selected Watermark Design Group, Thompson Engineering, and MDi media group as partners in its Southeastern ventures. "We're committed to using local talent in Mobile and along the Gulf Coast and we expect to continue to seek local partners as we move into additional projects. Look for announcements related to real estate firms, construction companies, and general contractors in the next few months," Oliver said.


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Oliver & Associates represents investors interested in development projects throughout the United States. The partnership in Mobile is committed to bringing residential living to neighborhoods that will benefit from families and individuals living and working in the area. For additional information about Oliver & Associates call (251) 209.5453.