Jim Richardson, VP and project developer for Forest CityCommercial Development tells GlobeSt.com there has been greatresponse to the firm's marketing efforts. "The east side ofRichmond has never had that much retail development. When weoriginally acquired the parcel we determined there would be a greatdeal of future growth here." <p.The $161 million developmentincludes the land cost, as well as environmental remediation costs.As part of these efforts, over the past three months, approximately77,000 tons of concrete were crushed on site and re-used forfoundations, sidewalks, and structural support. Roughly 7,500 tonsof aluminum, steel, iron, copper, and other ferrous and non-ferrousmetals were also recycled and re-used in accordance withEnvironmental Protection Agency standards.

There is 150,000 sf of space remaining to be leased. This spacewill be occupied primarily by small shops or junior boxes,Richardson says. Also, he adds, there are another 11 outparcels forwhich the companies are currently in negotiations. "There are a lotof deals very close to being inked for these," he says, in therestaurant, local bank category. The Shops at White Oak Villagewill include a 757,000-sf Power Center and a 150,000-sf LifestyleCenter. Local officials estimate the Shops at White Oak Villagewill add 1,500 part-time and full-time jobs to the area.