The project would include a mall, as well as big box retailers. Construction of the power center portion could begin next year.

When completed over the next dozen years or so, Lark Ridge could have a completed value in today's dollars of more than $200 million. Lark Ridge is roughly the size of 180 football fields.

"Lark Ridge fulfills a vision to bring a regional retail asset to the Front Range's northern corridor," says Jordon Perlmutter, who has been involved in the development and selling of a number of regional malls and power centers in the metro area. "The project has the combined strength of perfect timing, massive size, prime location, existing utilities and enthusiasm from retailers, the city of Thornton and surrounding communities.

Perlmutter notes Lark Ridge is visible from two major highways. He says it will draw from "Loveland, Longmont, Greeley and Fort Collins to the north, Brighton and the DIA corridor to the east, and the northern suburbs to the south of the site."

Perlmutter anticipates that the property will house major nationalretailers, some form of enclosed shopping center, restaurants, entertainment and a hotel. Additionally, an agreement was reached with the city of Thornton on aperformance-based incentive plan, launching thefirst "grand-use" retail project to serve the northern corridor. In December, Jordon Perlmutter & Co. announced the purchase of the first 120 acres at this location.

"For years we've been touting the advantages of a Thornton location and all of the positives our city has to offer," says Thornton Mayor, Noel Busck. "When you also consider the growth in nearby communities like Frederick, Firestone, Dacono and Erie, then add to that the accessibility with I-25, E-470, Highway 7 and Washington Street, Lark Ridge will quickly become a regional hub.