Hutchings said while Anderson is "committed to the project and purchase," market forces would also play a role in the firm's future development plans.

"If we begin demolition (at the existing airport site) in 2012, we probably won't begin construction of some feature of the project until that summer," he said. "That means it won't be until around 2013 until someone is living there."

The firm's vision includes a variety of residential neighborhoods with large estate lots, town homes, and affordable houses meant for young families or retired couples. Trails, open green spaces, and room for churches, schools or other public-use facilities are also included in the plan.

"We want good, public access to the area and want to preserve some of the views and vista corridors there that will benefit everybody," Hutchings said. A distinctive town center with retail shops and a possible amphitheater park on the northeast margin of the site are also included in the conceptual design.

"This is a unique development, and we have every intention of doing it right," he said.

Before any of that happens, however, a final contract between Anderson and St. George city must be signed by April 30. Neither side has voiced worries that the deal could fall through.

"I've signed a letter of intent with Anderson, and we have a lot to do in a short amount of time in order to sign a contract," said McArthur. "But I think all the elements are there to allow for it to happen."

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E-mail: nperkins@desnews.com