Retail with Kohl?s is expected at Essilor
By KATHY FERGUSON
SEMINOLE ? Many formal steps still need to be taken, but all indications are that the former Essilor of America property will welcome a retail center with a Kohl?s Department Store as its premier anchor.
Kohl?s is a national chain that offers a variety of merchandise, such as clothing for all age groups, shoes, jewelry and home items.
The shopping area would be at 4900 Park St. on 19 acres where a previous manufacturer produced glass, plastic and polycarbonate-finished lenses.
Other smaller stores would be added to the shopping area, but none have been named. Also on the outer property, several businesses could be added that might include a restaurant, bank and small offices.
After the City Council?s first reading last year, a request to change the city?s future land use map along with a zoning change was forwarded to the Pinellas Planning Council and the Countywide Planning Authority and state Department of Community Affairs for review.
Although initial questions were raised at the county level about changing the area to retail because it would mean the loss of manufacturing jobs, ultimately the commission approved the idea. No negative findings were raised.
General services director Mitch Bobowski met with representatives of the Sembler Corporation and Kohl?s architect to discuss style.
?We do not yet have any site plans regarding the property, however,? Bobowski said.
If all goes as planned, Bobowski said, a traffic signal is scheduled for Park Street and Sheen Drive to help with the added vehicle trips. The Metropolitan Planning Organization still has to approve that installation.
The developer also agreed to landscaping specifications, the addition of retention ponds and construction of sidewalks as outlined by the city.
A Sembler Corporation public relations employee, Laura Baker, wouldn?t comment on the deal.
?We expect to close on that property later this year, but prior to that, we will not comment,? she said.
Part of the process is the consideration and planning for the Park Street widening to a six-lane divided road starting in 2007. The road expansion should be completed in 2010.
Seminole?s council is scheduled to adopt the changes on second and final reading at its Tuesday, April 11, regular meeting. This reading and other ordinances dealing with affordable housing and parking have been pushed forward to allow for the swearing in of newly elected officials.
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