Council approves preliminary plan for retail project in Lenexa Old Town

The Lenexa City Council voted to approve a preliminary plan for Retail Lenexa Old Town, a proposed three-tenant retail building at 9213 Plum Road in the historic business district.

The plan won unanimous recommendation from the planning commission and was presented as a design-forward infill project intended to complement Old Town’s scale and character.

Stephanie Sullivan of the Community Development Department told council the site sits within the Historic Business District zoning and the comprehensive plan’s mixed-use designation and showed elevations and site layout that place the building fronting Plum Road with loading and parking at the rear. Sullivan said the building will include three tenant spaces, and that “the developer for this site is looking to fill this yellow space” while other tenant identities remain undetermined.

Thomas Nolte, the project architect, described the design intent and theme and introduced owner John Higgins and builder Bruce Rickey. Nolte said the project drew unanimous support at the planning commission. “This is an important site, an open site that became open,” Nolte said, identifying the site as a rare downtown parcel with parking and describing the building as a craftsman tailoring storefront with an “Irish theme” aesthetic.

Council members praised the architectural approach and fit with Old Town. Council Member Chelsea said she was “thrilled” with the proposal and its aesthetic; Council Member Mark and others echoed support.

Council Member Craig moved approval and Council Member Bill seconded; the motion carried. Staff noted the applicant is proceeding to final-plan review with planning commission following the council’s preliminary-plan approval.