Mayor Sly James said today infrastructure improvements and a new grocery store are coming to Linwood Shopping Center at Linwood Boulevard and Prospect Avenue. The project is expected to break ground this fall and open next summer.
Under the development agreement with Linwood Shopping Center Initiative, LLC, the city will purchase property on the west side of Prospect between 31st Street and Linwood from Linwood Shopping Center Initiative, LLC. Lipari Brother’s Sun Fresh Market, an affiliate of Associated Wholesale Grocers will own and operate the full-service grocery store at that location.
“This project shows a commitment to our neighborhoods east of Troost and our commitment to the economic development of the area,” James said. “Convenient access to fresh food is a real need for these residents, and I’m proud that by working together, we can turn this shopping center into a positive neighborhood amenity.”
“Our entire community benefits when any part of it is renewed, and I look forward to the jobs and neighborhood revitalization that this project will create,” he said.
Donald Maxwell, president of Linwood Shopping Center Initiative, who will manage the shopping center, said: “The needs of the neighborhood for a grocery store and additional retail that also removes blight have driven our desire to put together a deal that works for Kansas City. I want to thank the mayor, the city manager and Lipari Brother’s Sun Fresh for their commitment not only to this project, but also for their commitment to improving east-side neighborhoods.”
“We are excited by the opportunity to bring a first-class, full-service grocery store to this midtown location. We believe our Sun Fresh Market will have a very positive effect on the neighborhood and surrounding community,” said John Lipari of Lipari Brother’s Inc. “We are proud to be part of this redevelopment project on the city’s east side.”
Planned facade improvements at Linwood Shopping Center include deconstruction of the original structure to be replaced with a totally new facility. Existing canopies along the remaining shops will be removed and replaced to give the center an entirely new image.
The new grocery will feature a fresh, contemporary design, including a large inviting glass entry. Canopies, lighting and architectural details will provide human-scale elements to the center.
Materials will be a warm, earth-tone palette, including stone and brick. Site improvements will include enhanced landscaping and pedestrian links to surrounding streets. The existing retail center will be redesigned to be compatible with and complementary to the grocery.
To provide sustainability, the project will feature permeable paving on a new parking surface and an environmentally friendly roof as well as proximity to public transportation.
This project marks the second grocery store constructed on the city’s east side during the mayor’s administration. Previously, Aldi opened a new grocery store at 39th Street and Prospect Avenue.
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Note to editors and reporters: An architect’s rendering of the Linwood Shopping Center redevelopment is attached.
