Plan for Centerville includes ex-Kroger site
Development pitch says it can freshen the city’s southern gateway.
— A local developer CENTERVILLE is moving forward with a proposed $146 million plan called Centerville Place that leaders said will bring new energy to the city.
Larry Dillin, through Larry Dillin LLC, pitched the project to Centerville City Council on Monday night. It will include retail, restaurant, office and residential elements, he said.
The project entails a large portion of the shopping center at Ohio 48 between Sheehan and Spring Valley roads, including the former Kroger location.
The project will bring economic opportunities for Centerville and become a gateway to the community, City Manager Wayne Davis said.
“This type of investment is a game-changer, and it does not happen every day,” Davis said. “Larry and his team are visionary and meticulous in their approach.”
Dillin, who is the developer for Austin Landing, has been quietly crafting a redevelopment plan for the Centerville Place property. Current tenants will continue their leases and will be offered the opportunity to occupy space in the newly created property alongside a collection of new tenants and services.
“This is a gateway community project that will redefine the way people think about Centerville as they enter from the south,” Dillin said. “We will take a property that is well-positioned in the marketplace, and make it a showcase location full of energy on the southern border of Centerville.”
The plan calls for replacement of the oldest section of existing retail space, including the former Kroger location, and converting the site into an updated mixed-use project, according to Dillin. That means retail, restaurant, office and residential space, plus other new building structures connected by heavily landscaped sidewalks and parking, along with public parks and water features.
The design concept maintains the connections with the existing Kroger and neighboring retail buildings. Early merchandising plans anticipate a collection of new restaurants, retail and offices along with residential uses.
“This project will be an opportunity to stretch Larry’s vision beyond just redevelopment and will truly change the way people view Centerville,” said Jack Sculfort, COO of Dillin.
Dillin launched a real estate development company in January to explore new mixed-use and senior living investments. Area communities, such as Centerville, have shown interest in Dillin’s approach to community-oriented development.
An unnamed tenant has already committed to a 60,000 square foot professional office building, according to Dillin.
The developer anticipates demolition will begin on the former Kroger building this fall.
Some residents opposed the proposed project Monday night, but Centerville councilman Mark Engert said the city looks forward to engaging citizens, hearing their feedback and sharing more information as it becomes available.
“Centerville Place will enhance our community by improving the economy, quality of life and overall attractiveness to those who choose Centerville in the near and long-term future,” Engert said.