ROGERS -- The recent approval of six retail buildings in Pleasant Crossing is another sign the area is bouncing back from a downturned economy, Rogers officials said Wednesday.
Rogers' Planning Commission approved the development of six buildings just north of Ashley Furniture on Tuesday night. The land is being developed by the Sitton Group of Pennsylvania, said Derrel Smith, Rogers city planner.
Two of the buildings will be constructed to house large "box" stores and there will be four smaller retail stores, said Daniel Ellis, vice president of Crafton Tull. Crafton Tull of Rogers has been contracted by the Sitton Group to do engineering for the site just off Interstate 49.
Officials haven't announced what retailers could occupy the buildings, Ellis said.
Businesses first started developing in the area now known as Pleasant Crossing in about 2003, Smith said. Walmart was the first business built in the area, which is near the intersection of West Pleasant Grove Road and South Dixieland Road.
A few other businesses followed soon after, Smith said. Development came to a halt as the recession hit, he said.
Ellis said the six businesses will be built around a parking lot constructed in 2004. Development of the lot fell through after the real estate market collapsed, he said.
"It sat for several years and someone finally stepped in and bought it and plans to finish it up," Ellis said. "I think that shows that the area's market is starting to get stronger again for development."
Smith agreed business is picking up in the Pleasant Crossing area.
"There has been quite a bit of activity out there in the past year," Smith said.
Cavender's Western Outfitter recently moved to the area, Smith said. A shopping center housing a mattress retailer along with a fitness center, nail salon and restaurant also opened, he said.
Whataburger is expected to begin construction in the area in the near future, Smith said. In addition, a 400-unit apartment complex developed by Salter Proprieties also plans to go before the Planning Commission for approval soon, he said.
"We are excited to see the development out there," Smith said. "Any good development out there will bring more people in and more tax dollars."
The Planning Commission unanimously approved the six retail spaces during its regular meeting.
Dennis Ferguson, commission chairman, said he expects to see continuing development in the area.
"I think everyone will be excited about that," Ferguson said.
Smith said the developers must complete several permit processes with the city before they can start building.
Ellis said he expects development could start this spring.
NW News on 02/19/2015