|
Summarized by Kent Larsen
LDS Developer's 'New Urban' Development Approval Expected Today
KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI -- An LDS Church affiliate's planned
development in Kansas City, Shoal Creek Valley, is expected to be approved by the
city council today. The planned development is notable because it
incorporates principles of so-called "New Urbanism," including favoring
walking over driving, into the development. The 1,700 acre development could
eventually house 15,000 people, the offices they work in and the businesses they
frequent.
The development closely follows Kansas City's FOCUS master plan,
adopted in 1997, and the developer, Shoal Creek Valley Development Co., LLC
worked with the city's staff closely to re-write zoning laws to make it work. The
city even created a new zoning classification, "master planned
communities," specifically for the project.
The city's development director, Vicki Notels, praises the project,
calling it a model for other New Urbanism projects in the area. City
Councilman Ed Ford is also impressed, "I've been familiar with this project
for two years, and my reaction every time I see these developers make their
presentation is still "wow." This is something that no one else in the Kansas City
area can claim." In yesterday's hearing, no one spoke against the project
and it is expected to pass today without opposition.
Source:
KC Council to consider 1,700 acre Northland development
Kansas City KS Star 30Aug00 B1
By Mike Rice: Kansas City Star
|
