Dispute over development of University Heights in Springfield takes a new turn

SPRINGFIELD, Missouri (KY3) – A two-year battle over the future of a Springfield street corner took a new turn Thursday night.

Springfield developer Be Kind and Merciful has proposed a new plan for the University Heights development at the corner of National and Sunshine at a planning and zoning hearing. The developer wants to put government, healthcare or general office space there. The developer has also proposed some traffic control measures.

“This property will also be in demand,” said Chris Wynn of CJW Transportation Consultants. “We're giving the neighborhood some peace of mind. That's something developers may not be able to offer in the future.”

The University Heights Neighborhood Association filed suit against the original plan for restaurants and retail space, claiming a century-old deed prohibited the construction of anything other than residential housing. A judge dismissed the suit last summer.

“This pressure alone has already affected our quality of life,” said Don Dunbar, a University Heights resident. “We've lost families. They've moved away.”

If the commission approves the rezoning, it will be presented to the City Council for approval.

To report a correction or typo, please send an email to [email protected]. Please include the item information in the subject line of the email.

All rights reserved.