Editorial: Who pays for new Metcalf South project?

The newest plans for remaking the site of the Metcalf South Shopping Center and a companion piece of property contain positive elements.

Pretty soon, though, developers must tell Overland Park officials how much this dream might cost — and how much taxpayers will be asked to plow into the project, which is being called Central Square.

It will run north and south of 95th Street east of Metcalf Avenue.

Lane4 Property Group recently released some pretty drawings of and possible uses for Central Square.

But the actual configuration of the stores and offices; where people would park; and how pedestrians would be able to safely get around are important considerations that ultimately will need city officials’ full attention.

The public is going to be asked to pour tens of millions of dollars into this redevelopment, so elected representatives need to make sure that money is wisely invested.

Lane4 says it wants to build about 500,000 square feet of retail, which nearby homeowners in public meetings had listed as a high priority.

Central Square also includes housing, an essential component that will help attract more people to live in an older part of Overland Park.

Current plans include about 450 apartment units as well as some multifamily, senior living. City officials should see if there are good ways to further increase housing on the property, which also would create a larger customer base for the planned retail.

Lane4 officials need to get solid cost estimates for their proposal to city officials before real negotiations can begin on who’s going to pay for the redevelopment.

This story was originally published February 3, 2015 at 5:21 PM with the headline "Editorial: Who pays for new Metcalf South project?."