Bass Pro Shops announces grand opening of its newest location in Tyler on Market Square Boulevard near the Village at Cumberland Park in South Tyler. (Contributed Photo)

The Tyler City Council has approved an economic development plan in partnership with Bass Pro Outdoor World, LLC.

Councilmembers made the move during a special-called meeting Wednesday morning. The city says this agreement aims to boost Tyler’s economy and infrastructure, solidifying the city as a key retail destination between Dallas and Shreveport.

As part of the agreement, Bass Pro Outdoor World will receive a sales tax rebate, contingent on meeting specific performance criteria:

$22 million in sales during the first year

A 2% annual growth in sales over seven years

The rebate will be capped at $1.5 million over the seven-year period, fostering a growth-oriented economic environment, the city said.

Additionally, the city will invest $1.7 million to construct Settler’s Landing Drive, soon to be renamed Bass Pro Way. This new roadway will connect South Broadway to the site at Cumberland Village and to Centennial Drive, enhancing access and improving the shopping experience for residents and visitors.

Bass Pro, a leading national retailer of outdoor gear and apparel with over 200 stores and Tracker Marine Boating Centers across North America, plans to invest approximately $13 million in capital to expand its operations in Tyler. The project is expected to create 90 new permanent jobs with an average salary of $45,000, highlighting the economic benefits this partnership will bring to the community.

“This is part of a long-term plan to help get traffic off of Broadway,” said Mayor Don Warren.

The city said this strategic partnership underscores the city council’s commitment to leveraging commercial opportunities to enhance community infrastructure. The improved roadways and the new Bass Pro Shops Outpost location are set to boost tourism and retail activity, promising economic benefits for the community and local businesses, the city said.

As this project progresses, the Tyler community can look forward to a new outdoor retail destination and increased economic activity, benefiting residents, workers, and visitors alike. The Tyler City Council said it is proud to have taken this step toward a brighter, more prosperous future for the city and its residents.

Bass Pro Shops announced last week that it is coming to Tyler.

In a recent filing with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World, LLC, applied for a permit to renovate an existing building at 151 Market Square Blvd in Tyler. The store on Thursday announced plans for the new Outpost retail location.

The $13 million renovation project aims to transform the 73,532-square-foot space into a Bass Pro Shops Outpost. The facility was previously occupied by RVs.com as a Camping World, which closed in November.

Work is expected to begin on Aug. 17, with completion anticipated in February 2025.

Bass Pro Shops said it looks forward to partnering with the City of Tyler to “bring the widest selection of hunting, fishing and outdoor recreation gear in the industry, with inventory specifically tailored to the region.”

The new Bass Pro Shops store will feature a completely unique custom design, according to a press release from Bass Pro Shops.

Bass Pro Shops is expected to employ about 100 “Outfitters” at its new Tyler location, many of whom will come from the local region. Employment information, when available, will be posted at basspro.com/careers.