Final approval given for Six at Park project

The Parkville Board of Aldermen approved the redevelopment of a busy corner in downtown Parkville.
At the Tuesday, April 17 meeting of the board, final approval was given to the Six at Park development, which included a rezoning order and development plan. Located at the southeast corner of Highway 9 and East Sixth Street, the approximately 2.5 acre development includes a 52,000 square foot office building with 149 parking spaces and more than 400 new jobs. 
Alderman Greg Plumb recused himself from the vote due to his position with Park University.
Also at the meeting, Park University president Dr. Greg Gunderson spoke about the future of the BankLiberty building in downtown Parkville. The university purchased the building in March, but only plans to keep it for a few years. After three years, the university plans to sell the building for use as retail space, with a few restrictions on usage. During those three years, the building will house the university’s information and technology department while that department’s on-campus home is retrofitted into student housing to meet increasing student enrollment. 
Gunderson said the move will bring 40-50 Park employees into downtown Parkville, increasing lunchtime traffic at restaurants to the city’s economic benefit. 
The board swore in returning aldermen Marc Sportsman, Dave Rittman, Tina Welch and Bob Lock. Sportsman was re-elected president of the board. 
Arbor Day was recognized by the board on Saturday, April 28. An observance ceremony will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, April 27 by planting a tree near the dog park in Platte Landing Park.