Adam Plagge is the Director of Economic Development for the City of Johnston. He presented an update on some of the projects around the city, focusing most of his time on the Town Center project at the NE corner of Merle Hay Road and 62nd. The original plan was to offer incentives for businesses around the area, improve the density of the location and create a retail center. The recession stalled the project, but also allowed for an opportunity to acquire properties and begin the development phase.
Community surveys revealed that about 75% of those that responded wanted more restaurants and retail locations. This included a town center. 80% of those surveyed wanted to move forward with the project, and an overwhelming majority favored the town square design.
The town center would focus on dining, entertainment, and usable greenspace. Dining and retail would be concentrated on the ground floors of any building, with the option of condos or office space on upper floors. Verticality of buildings would be restricted closest to the road, to improve visibility and esthetics. Design would include high-quality architecture and an emphasis on public amenities, including trails.
Part of the current town center design includes dedicated, yet versatile, space for the farmers market. This area could be used as parking when not in use on Tuesday evenings. The new city hall would also serve as a staple of the area. After considering space by the library or school, this location was selected to be the home of a new 8,000 square foot facility.
The development is slated to take place over the next 10-15 years. City officials are working toward land ownership and acquisition. A developer will be selected this year, with the target of finalizing design in 2019 and beginning construction in 2020. Road construction is sure to accompany the project in hopes of upgrading the facade and improving traffic flow.