LIBERTY TWP.

The first of several hurdles has been successfully cleared for a new residential development here by a Wisconsin-based company.

Liberty Twp. trustees voted to approve a change in land use plan designation for 23 acres along Hamilton Mason Road just west of the Liberty Towne Center that includes the Web Extreme Entertainment from Planned Business Park to Planned Community Mixed Use.

A change to the land use plan will allow for Continental Properties to eventually construct its proposed Springs at Liberty Twp. development, a multi-family residential property.

During a three-hour public hearing Tuesday, Sara Johnson, development director for Continental, described the planned 288 residential units ranging from studio apartments up to three bedrooms. The total project cost is estimated at $37 million, she said.

But approval of the development is still pending a zone change, that will go through three public hearings, and approval of a proposed development plan, said Andy Meyer, senior planner for Liberty Twp.

Johnson said Continental completed market studies of the Cincinnati metro area over the past year and settled on Liberty Twp. because of its diversified economy and low unemployment figures.

Prior to voting Tuesday, the trustees discussed concerns with changing the designation of parcels originally envisioned for commercial business development such as medical or office.

Trustee Christine Matacic said only 18 percent of the township is planned for commercial use.

I just hate to make changes without a guarantee, Matacic said.

Originally posted here:

Plan for new residential development in Liberty Twp. moves forward