Park Place News

Park Place named recipient of Capstone Award

04.10.2009

Park Place was honored with the Kansas City Business Journal's 2009 Capstone Award for mixed-use projects.

From the article:

"The program's aim is to look beyond dollar figures and square footage and consider how these projects are changing our community and affecting our lives."

The Ice at Park Place spotlighted in Blue Valley Neighborhood News Section of The Kansas City Star

11.05.2008

In an article entitled “An Outdoor ice will be nice in Leawood,” the first and only ice rink in Johnson County makes its debut. The article discusses the inspiration behind The Ice, the sustainable elements, and activities to expect for the rest of the year.

From the article:

“Winter jingles and holiday decorations will envelope skates at the rink for the next two months. Benches will be plentiful, for excited observes and parents to relax. A couple of the nearby restaurants will sell gourmet hot chocolate and specialty coffees.”

“We wanted to create a unique outdoor amenity for people in the community,” said Jeffrey Alpert, co-developer of Park Place. “Ice skating turned out to be the answer. And it is nice because the rink is now the central point of Park Place.”

“The ice skating rink is not only ground-breaking for Johnson County, but it is part of national news as well. The rink will be one of the first in the United States to be environmentally friendly. Normally, ice on the rink is pained white – to hide the piping underneath. The Park Place ice skating rink is using an environmentally friendly coating, which will reflect heat.”

Ingredient featured in the Best of Kansas City Pizza cover story in The Kansas City Star

10.09.2008

In The Kansas City Star’s Play section, Ingredient was listed in the favorites section of an article entitled “Tower of Pizza: Our restaurant critic chews through a mountain of pies to find the best in KC.” This cover story was written to celebrate National Pizza Month

From the article:

“The Lawrence-based chain opened a second location this summer in the trendy new Park Place shopping mecca. Gourmet pizzas and all sorts of create-your-own-pies.

Park Place makes a splash in The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle

10.03.2008

In the October 3 edition, a profile on the only mixed-use development community in Leawood ran that discussed new urbanism, tenants and the future of Park Place in an article entitled ‘Alperts latest project brings new urbanism to Leawood.’

From the article:

“Move over, Boardwalk, it is all about Park Place, at least in Leawood.Both developers were quoted several times throughout the article.

“There are people here at all times, day and night,” said Jeff Alpert, co-developer.

"The mayor has coined it Leawoods new downtown, and that is what we rally wanted it to be – a place where the community would gather either on an informal or formal basis through the year,” Melanie Mann, co-developer said. “We have often heard people say that it feels like they are in a different town. Not so much the architecture, but there is no place that feels like a community as much.”

Park Place Brigade Mini Cheerleading and Football Camp on FOX Morning Show

10.02.2008

FOX Morning Show gets some Pep from the Kansas City Brigade Arena Football team

Brigade Arena Football player, Chris Cook, and cheerleader, Ashley Worrell, went on FOX’s Morning Show to show hosts Laura Thornquist and Paul Herdner a thing or two about the basics of football and cheerleading. During the segment, Laura threw a pass to Paul with some coaching by Cook. Also, the hosts twirled their hair and learned the Brigade Cheerleader’s signature move in anticipation for the Brigade Mini Cheerleading and Football Camp that was held at Park Place on October 4. This is one segment that no one will forget… after all Paul did use the pom poms.

435 South announces the newest tenants at Park Place

10.01.2008

Gobug Baby & Kids and JDMC Group LLC announcement was featured in the Buzz section of the 435 South October issue.

From the article:

“Gobug offers clothing for newborns through size six, as well as strollers, diaper bags and other active gear to help families to get out and play together. (JDMA), a professional real estate development company, specializes in acquiring, developing, owning and managing commercial, retail and multi-family residential properties.”

Spaces Magazine Tells Ladies to Start Shopping

10.01.2008

In its regular What is Happening Column, reporter Darren Mark discusses some of the recent tenant openings – Gobug Baby & Kids, Annbelles and Paciugo Gelato - at Park Place.

From the article:

“Cheers to one of Jonson Countys newest shopping plazas, Park Place, the Main Street, USA-themed development north of Town Center. Its mission is standard issue for a concept like this: Intermingle retail, restaurants, office space and residences in a cute and cozy environment.”

“But here is where it gets weird. Unlike most similar concept developments, the retail and restaurants at Park Place are properties you are not going to find in the local mall. Some of them are even original to Kansas City!”

New Park Place Tenants featured in KC Small Business

10.01.2008

In the Entrepreneurs in Action section, Gobug Baby & Kids and JDMA Group, LLC, were featured for their move to Park Place.

From the article:

“Gobug Baby & Kids, 11530 Ash St., features action-read apparel for newborns through size 6. Gobug also features strollers, diaper bags, and other smart gear that helps families get outside and play together.”

“JDMA Group LLC, is a real estate development company specializing in acquiring, developing, owning and managing commercial, retail and multi-family residential properties.”

Business Journal Announces Specialty Fertilizer Products Move to Park Place

09.19.2008

In the Business Journal regular section about the best stories from kansascity.bizjournals.com was the announcement of Specialty Fertilizer Products moving its headquarters to Park Place.

From the article:

“The company, also known as SFP, has headquarters in Belton. In December, it will move the headquarters 23 employees into 12,199 square feet in Park Place Aubrey Building, under construction at 116^th Street and Nall Avenue.”

“Melanie Acklin, a spokeswoman for the privately held company, said the company is entertaining many more clients, and the Park Place location will afford plentiful nearby hotels and restaurants to accommodate visitors.”

Envy featured in the Fashion Forward section of Star Magazine

09.14.2008

Envy brings hot new fall fashion trends to the Beauty in Flight fashion show that benefited the Rose Brooks Center. This center is dedicated to ending the cycle of domestic violence.

From the article:

“Envy Boutique was one of the 14 stores showing their wares on the runway. This silk patterned dress by Yoana Baraschi was shown with black opaque tights, a great way to take summer dresses into fall. Look for Envy at its new location at Park Place.”

Park Place’s Flower Market Featured in Weather Segment on KSMO Two Days in a Row

09.02.2008

The Park Place Flower Market was mentioned during the whats happening section of the weather forecast on KSMO. This mention ran during both the September 2 and 3 More in the Morning show.

Ingredient a hit with 435 South

09.01.2008

Gloria Gale, contributing writer for 435 South Magazine, recently reviewed one of the new restaurants at Park Place, Ingredient, calling it Johnson County’s answer to a delightful dinner and lunch.

From the article:

“My ciabatta sandwich oozed brie between the husky roasted chunks of turkey. Accompanied by the savory soup, dense with slivered mushrooms, I was thoroughly delighted.

My two (friends) were engulfed in their big bowls. A meaty Cajun salmon top a crisp round red tortilla was a meal in itself but was dressed with avocado, roasted peppers and black beans all tangled up with the greens. Just call it Money’s ‘Garden in a Bowl.’

The clutch of tables quickly filled as soon as parties left, but it was fun just lingering and watching sort of Johnson County’s homage to a quasi-urban scene in the middle of suburbia.”

Grand Opening Photo and Park Place Tenants Featured in Kansas City CEO

09.01.2008

A photo of the Park Place developers along with Leawood Chamber of Commerce members was accompanied by a summary of the weekend festivities in the About Town section. Also, Park Place along with its tenants were featured in an article entitled “Real Estate Monitoring Market.”

From the photo:

“Park Place in Leawood officially celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon cutting ceremony which gave the developers, Leawood Chamber of Commerce members and local government officials a chance to compliment each other on a job well done.”

From the article:

"The new Park Place development – a mixed-use community by Kansas City-area developers, Melanie Mann and Jeff Alpert, opened earlier this year. When complete, Park Place will feature a pedestrian-friendly component with residential and retail space, two hotels, and boutique office space above shops and restaurants, along with parks and gardens.”

Jeff Alpert and Melanie Mann featured as guest columnists in KC Small Business

09.01.2008

Alpert and Mann discussed how finding the right local location will help retailers in an article entitled, “Finding the Right Spot” that ran in the KC Small Business September issue that focused on retail

From the article:

“The perfect location is different for every retailer depending on the business needs and desired clientele.”

“Make sure to check if the developer or landlord is a local or national company. Local developers generally will be more hands-on, have an office close by and be more accessible to handle concerns. They can give advice when it comes to planning out the construction of the new store, scheduling a grand opening, and booking programming based on how past retailers have faired.”

“Lifestyle centers are advantageous since there are salons, clothing stores, restaurants, dry cleaners, a variety of residences, parks, art galleries, safe and convenient parking and entertainment all in once location.”

“In the end, the perfect location for small, local retailers will allow them to focus on what they do best – their business.”

Park Place featured in Kansas City Retail review in Heartland Real Estate Business

09.01.2008

The September 2008 issue of Heartland Real Estate Business features Park Place in its Kansas City Retail Market Focus. Every year this publication asks local experts their thoughts on how the Kansas City retail scene is fairing.

From the article:

“There are three upscale projects currently under construction in south Johnson County, Kansas… Park Place, located in Leawood at 117^th and Nall is the latest true mixed-use center and features a combination of retail, restaurants, two hotels and office space…”

Gobug moving to Park Place announcement featured in Cityscape section of The Kansas City Star

08.26.2008

From the Article: “Gobug Baby and Kids, a locally owned children's store, is moving from downtown Overland Park to the new Park Place, 11530 Ash St., Leawood. The store will sell "play-friendly, casual and stylish" children's clothing, along with strollers and diaper bags and other gear to "help families get outside and play together." A soft opening is scheduled for Sept. 2.”

Gobug Baby & Kids and JDMA Group, LLC Become Latest Tenants

08.20.2008

Gobug Baby & Kids and JDMA Group, LLC will become part of Park Place, the first Main Street-style, mixed use development in Leawood.

Gobug Baby & Kids is the home of big style for little adventures, featuring action-ready apparel and gear for active families. The clothing is for newborns through size 6 and is play-friendly yet stylish. Gobug also features strollers, diaper bags, and other smart gear that helps families get outside and play together. Gobug will be moving from its current location in Overland Park to Park Place, with opening set for Tuesday, September 2, 2008.

JDMA Group, LLC, is a professional, real estate development company that specializes in acquiring, developing, owning and managing commercial, retail and multi-family residential properties. Founded in 2006, JDMA Group was formed to primarily aid a Kansas City developer with property management, and has grown since then into other property management niches including real estate strategy analysis, site selection, feasibility studies, and marketing plans. JDMA is relocating its offices from 4701 College Boulevard in Overland Park, Kan., to occupy more than 1,800 square-feet at Park Place. JDMA Group will move to its new location on Friday, August 22.

“Moving to this new location at Park Place will allow JDMA Group to continue to grow its business by creating more room for employees,” said Josh Crow of JDMA Group. “We could not be more thrilled to join the eclectic mix of other tenants and services in this new mixed-use development that is unique to the area.”

Park Place Flower Market brings summer into KCTV-5 studio

08.02.2008

Rosehill Garden’s Ann Vannase showed off the wonderful collection of plants and flowers found at the Park Place Flower Market. She discussed in detail the different kids’ activities the Flower Market had to offer like making pizza gardens and creating Fancy Nancy flower pots. Kids can enjoy these activities and take home their creations for a mere $5 every Thursday at 11 am or 1 pm through October.

Trezo Vino Receives High Marks from 435 South

08.01.2008

435 South’s Gloria Gale recently reviewed Park Place’s smooth wine bistro and found it to be swanky and seductive.

From the article:

“We rattled off our picks with assurance – seared scallops, shoestring potatoes, braised short ribs, flatbread pizza, crab wraps and for good measure, one green salad. ‘Good?’ I inquired from my friends. ‘Um…yes,’ both nodded confidently before offering me a taste.

Meanwhile, between tastings of this and that, I scanned the room. This wasn’t TGIF Friday… it was Wednesday and the place was jammed. This is definitely a place to be seen. One couple snuggled tightly in a cushy banquette. Another table of six bantered incessantly to the artfully designed plates that kept appearing.

But back to the business at hand, each time I reached forkful, I was thoroughly delighted. Flavors mixed and mingled with consensus awarded to the braised short ribs. ‘Out of this world,’ sang one of Gale’s friends.

Park Place Named One of the Top Projects in Kansas City for the Second Year in a Row

07.04.2008

The Business Journal recently released its list of “Top Area Construction Projects” for 2008. Park Place ranked number eight, up two spots from last year, based on the overall cost of construction.

These lists are compiled from surveys of construction companies and architecture firms, Business Journal news coverage, and firms’ Web sites.

Jeff Alpert & Melanie Mann Share Their Vision on Live with Jay 1510 AM Radio

07.02.2008

As like-minded visionaries aspiring to bring an urban, mixed-use community to Leawood, these Kansas City-area developers make Park Place home with more than 50 years combined experience in real estate development. Alpert and Mann discussed their vision, goals and plans for the future for Park Place.

Grand Opening Weekend Featured in 435 South

07.01.2008

A brief summary and multiple photographs from Park Place’s Grand Opening weekend were featured in the Happenings section of 435 South’s July issue.

From the article:

“Park Place, Leawood’s newest outdoor shopping development, celebrated its grand opening with a VIP party held on Thursday, May 1. The weekend was full of activities including a ribbon cutting and fireworks. Mayor Peggy Dunn joined in the celebration along with the Leawood city council members.”

Charles Ferruzza of The Pitch Experiences Culinary Coma at Trezo Vino

06.26.2008

From the article:

“I knew the food would be perfectly fine at the three-month-old Trezo Vino Wine Bistro in Leawood’s still-unfinished Park Place shopping center. The menu was created by Michael Peterson, the talented chef who also oversees the kitchen at this restaurant’s sister bistro, Trezo Mare in the Northland. Still, I was surprised to discover that the evening menu is a collection of truly inventive and delightful small plates, salads, pizza and flatbreads that aren’t outrageously priced at all.

The most exquisite dish of the evening was a flaming china plate containing a pretty bowl of lighter-than-air gnocchi hidden under a bubbling blanket of caramel-colored lobster-cream sauce. This affair was topped with half of a grilled lobster tail. Five bites later, I was practically in a coma.”

Ribbon Cutting photo in After Hours section of the Business Journal

06.13.2008

The photo featured Jeff Alpert and Melanie Mann, Park Place developers, with Leawood Mayor Peggy Dunn at the ribbon cutting ceremony on May 2.

Steve Kerner of Ingredient Prepares his Summer Salad on FOX 4

06.02.2008

Ingredient’s Steve Kerner recently prepared his Summer Salad for Paul Herdtner of FOX 4. The salad was included to highlight Ingredient’s vast array of custom salads, allowing guests to choose from 60 different ingredients and 14 dressings. The salad recipe can be found at http://www.myfoxkc.com/myfox/pages/ContentDetail?contentId=6673738.

KC Commercial Journal Announces Tortoise Capital Advisors, Aloft Hotel

06.01.2008

From the KC Commercial Journal:

“Tortoise Capital Investors LLC and Aloft Hotel were recently the first office and hotel, respectively, to become part of Park Place, Leawood’s first Main Street-style, mixed-use development.

Tortoise Capital Advisors, a pioneer in capital markets for master limited partnership (MLP) investment companies and a leader in closed-end funds, separately manages accounts focused on MLP’s in the energy sector. It is relocating its offices from Corporate Woods office park in Overland Park to its new 17,500-square-foot home at Park Place.”

Kansas City Small Business Monthly Announces Three New Tenants

06.01.2008

From the article:

“Among the new tenants is The Rice Gallery of Fine Art, an art gallery focusing on local, European and American artists, which will relocate from 135th and Metcalf to Park Place. Craig Allen’s Men’s Fine Grooming, a salon for men with services similar to that of a woman’s salon, will open in September. Fountain Capital Management, LLC will relocate its offices from Corporate Woods to Park Place as well.”

Kansas City Business Journal Features Park Place as Gathering Place of Leawood

05.08.2008

Leawood Mayor Peggy Dunn, Jeff Alpert, Melanie Mann and Peggy Rice speak of Park Place and its socioeconomic impact.

From the article:

“Promoted as a gathering place for the suburban community of Leawood, Park Place aims to offer a true mixed-use development with the city’s first hotels. Upon full completion, which could take an additional five to seven years, the project will have more than 1 million square feet of retail, office, hotel and residential space.

True to its name, Park Place also is to include two parks, one of which will have a hike/bike trail and an ice skating rink in the winter.

“We felt like it was a responsible way to develop a place that would be enduring and something that was missing out in the suburbs,” said Melanie Mann, a co-developer with Jeffrey Alpert.”

Ericsson Move to Park Place Announced in The Johnson County Sun

05.07.2008

Ericsson’s Kansas City headquarters to move to Park Place.

From the article:

“Ericsson, a market leader in mobile technologies, will occupy 14,376 square feet of office space in Park Place’s Aubrey Building. The site will serve as Ericsson’s Kansas City headquarters.

“We are exicted to move our Kansas City headquarters to such a great location,” Executive Vice President and General Manager Scott Willis said. “Park Place is a quality development, centrally located for our employees and nearby one of our key customers, Sprint.”

Park Place Grand Opening Tabbed as THE Place to Be by The Kansas City Star

05.02.2008

The Star’s Joyce Smith previews Park Place’s grand opening and future hotels, lofts

From the article:

“Park Place will celebrate the grand opening of its first phase Saturday with in-store promotions, entertainment and events, including story time, free paraffin wax and hand massage, face painting and a pizza box decorating contest – all topped off by fireworks.

The $450 million pedestrian-friendly development will eventually offer retail, offices and residential components, including lofts, town houses and condominiums, along with two boutique hotels, an ice rink, two parks and a hike/bike trail. It also has a six-story parking garage with 595 spots, along with surface and street parking.”

435 South Announces Official Opening of Park Place

05.01.2008

From the article:

“Park Place, which boasts stores and restaurants as well as friendly outdoor commons, officially opened with charity events, a ribbon cutting, entertainment and promotions. Park Place’s current operating tenants include Trezo Vino Wine Bistro, California Pizza Kitchen, Annabelles Fine Linens, Envy Boutique, The Learning Tree and Park Place Gallery. Park Place’s offerings continue to grow with the anticipated spring/summer openings of Ingredient, Fish City Grill, Le Reve Salon, Paciugo Gelato, and The Rice Gallery of Fine Art. This fall, Park Place’s ice terrace and hotel will open to be followed by winter debuts of RA Sushi and Morton’s, The Steakhouse.”

Trezo Vino VIP Grand Opening Reception Featured in 435 South

05.01.2008

A brief summary and multiple photographs from Trezo Vino’s VIP Grand Opening Reception were featured in the Happenings section of 435 South’s May issue.

From the article:

“Trezo Vino Wine Bistro opened its doors at Park Place for a VIP reception on March 19. Guests wined, dined and mingled the evening away. Trezo Vino offers 40 wines by the glass and 165 wines by the bottle. The bistro also features its own private-label wines. Menu items created for optimal pairings and served on plates made for sharing, include tapas, salads, flatbreads and desserts.”

KMBC 9 Showcases Park Place

04.30.2008

Jeff Alpert was featured on KMBC 9 on Wednesday, April 30. Alpert spoke to Chris Nagus about Park Place’s convenience, consumer catered plan, and future endeavors. During the segment, The Learning Tree’s Betty Leonhardt also shared her views about business traffic thus far and how she envisions business to increase as the development opens. The segment included various shots of the Park Place development. The feature aired on 9 News at Ten.

Four Park Place Tenants Featured on Local Television

04.14.2008

Four Park Place tenants were recently featured on local television in conjunction with the debut on Saturday, March 29.

Ray Groves of The Learning Tree was featured on FOX 4 on March 18. He showed viewers toys and crafts available at The Learning Tree that parents can utilize to bring out the little artists in their children.
On March 22, Melanie Mann joined Kimberly Moussa of Park Place Gallery and Mark Christopher Weber, a local artist, to inform how art is a significant feature of Park Place. Weber’s artwork was displayed for the feature on KCTV 5.
FOX 4 featured Chef Kyle Kroenke of California Pizza Kitchen on March 22. Chef Kroenke prepared a BBQ Chicken Pizza, California Pizza Kitchen’s most popular pizza.
In addition, Annabelles Fine Linens demonstrated how to fold fitted sheets for spring cleaning on April 7. Kathy Watkins folded to perfection on FOX 4.

Park Place featured in The Sun Newspaper

04.03.2008

Park Place unveils first phase

From the article:

Leawood Mayor Peggy Dunn hailed Park Place as the future of downtown Leawood.

"When it's completed it will truly create the center of our town, so to speak, " Dunn said. "An area where people can come together and really build that spirit of community and gather for celebrations and it will be extremely pedestrian-friendly."

Dunn said the project has been worth the wait.

"It takes time to be very deliberate and precise with all of the decisions that go into it," Dunn said.

Developers Melanie Mann and Jeff Alpert, who have moved their offices to Park Place, said the development's debut is the first step in the realization of their vision.

"It's very exciting," Alpert said. "Our motivation for developing is really to create places that people can enjoy, and whether it's a subdivision for their home or places they can shop that's really our underlying motivation and what keeps us going in the business.

"The fact that we were able to see people walking up and down the streets and in and out of the shops and eating in the restaurants...it just validates all the time and effort we've put into it over these last seven years."

When complete, Park Place will boast 200,000 square feet of retail space, 350,000 square feet of Class A office space, up to 350 residential units between condominiums and townhomes, and two concept hotels with a total of 298 rooms. There will also be a park and an outdoor ice rink.

The hotels will be Leawood's first.

"What makes Park Place so special for Leawood, or what would make it special for any community, is the fact that it does have a senes of place and a place where people can come and stroll the streets, enjoy sidewalk dining or take advantage of some of the unique programming we'll have in our parks," Alpert said. "These are all unique amenities for any city and particularly for Leawood."

KC Magazine Publicizes Park Place Now Open

04.01.2008

KC Magazine announces the opening of Park Place.

From the article:

“Park Place, Johnson County’s first mixed-use development to incorporate green space, is officially open for business in Leawood. On March 29, California Pizza Kitchen, Park Place Gallery, Trezo Vino Wine Bar and Bistro, Envy Boutique, Annabelle’s, The Learning Tree, and Park Place Gallery all swung open their doors.

And more is on the way: Ingredient, Fish City Grill, Le Reve Salon, Paciugo Gelato, and the Rice Gallery of Fine Art will join the lineup later this year. Additionally, lofts, town homes, condominiums, two boutique hotels, ice rink, two parks, and a trail system are expected in the near future. With places to live, work, dine, and play, the question isn’t why you should visit Park Place; it’s why would you ever want to leave?”

Greater Kansas City Chamber Newsletter Announces Tortoise Capital Investors Move To Park Place

04.01.2008

Greater Kansas City Chamber Newsletter announces Tortoise Capital Investors moving Kansas City location to Park Place in their “Good News” sector.

From the article:

“Tortoise Capital Investors, LLC has announced the company’s plans to move in mid-May to become part of Park Place, Leawood’s first Main Street-style, mixed use development.”

Trezo Vino Wine Bistro featured in Kansas City Star

03.25.2008

New Park Place development adds its second restaurant.

From the article:

Trezo Vino offers small plates to share like crab and cabbage spring rolls or grilled petite filet with potato goat cheese, along with salads, soups, pizza and flatbreads, and signature drinks.

"It's a new hybrid restaurant concept: You come here more for a night of entertainment than for dinner out on the town," said Greg Walker, development partner for Trezo Vino. "We expect our customers to come in and linger and enjoy themselves for two or three hours. It's a little more social, a little more educational than the average restaurant."

Educational as in the menu, which includes 45 eclectic menu items that customers can experiment with.

The space, at 11570 Ash St., features an open look with high ceilings and large windows, along with a parking garage to the west. Trezo Vino's sister restaurant, Trezo Mare, is in the Northland's Briarcliff Village.

Kansas City Business Journal Web site Announces Ericsson's move to Park Place

03.14.2008

The Kansas City Business Journal’s Web site announced that Ericsson is moving its Kansas City headquarters to Park Place.

From the article:

“Ericsson will move office to Leawood from Lenexa.
Ericsson's Kansas City-area office will move in June to Park Place in Leawood from Lenexa, the Sweden-based mobile telecommunications company said Thursday.

Scott Willis, Ericsson's executive vice president and general manager at the company's 80-person Kansas City-area headquarters, said in a release that moving to Park Place will improve access to a large customer, Sprint Nextel Corp. (NYSE: S), whose headquarters is across the street.

Ericsson will occupy slightly more than 14,000 square feet at Park Place.
The new mixed-use development northeast of 119th Street and Nall Avenue already has leased more than 17,000 square feet to Tortoise Capital Advisors LLC. The energy investment company will move in May from Corporate Woods in Overland Park.”

Park Place featured in Heartland Real Estate Business

03.01.2008

The March 2008 issue of Heartland Real Estate Business features Park Place in its “Midwest Mixed-Use Spotlight.”

From the article:

“When complete, the $450 million project will feature 200,000-square-feet of retail and restaurant space; 350,000-square-feet of Class A office space; up to 350 residential units; and two of Starwood Hotels’ newest concepts—a 158 room aloft hotel and a 140-room extended-stay hotel, element.”

“The residential component will include a mix of town homes, lofts and condominiums, which will benefit an area that is experiencing significant growth in Johnson County, Kan.”

“Supporting the center’s pedestrian-friendly environment, Park Place offers extensive green space, large sidewalks, and al fresco dining.”

Midwest Real Estate News Announces Park Place Office, Hotel

03.01.2008

Midwest Real Estate News announces Tortoise Capital Advisors moving to Park Place; Aloft Hotel to break ground.

From the article:

“Tortoise Capital Advisors LLC and Aloft Hotel have come part of Park Place, a “Main Street”-style, mixed use development that was set to hold a grand opening on March 29.

Tortoise Capital Advisors, an investment company specializing in closed-end funds, relocated its offices from Corporate Woods in Overland Park, Kan. to occupy approximately 17,500 square-feet at Park Place. Tortoise says it will move into its new location mid-May.
The Aloft Hotel, meanwhile, will be a six-story hotel with 158 rooms. It is franchised under the Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide flag and will open in late 2008.”

Melanie Mann featured as guest columnist in Kansas City Star

02.12.2008

Mann discussed the lasting effect that the 75 million baby boomers entering retirement during the next decade will have on the housing industry.

From the article:

“Today’s baby boomer is not only focused on downsizing, but is seeking a home that has more amenities and less hassle and is maintenance-free.”

“This lifestyle trend seeks to combine the best elements of city and suburban living – convenience, safety, low maintenance, access, variety of amenities and services.”

“This interest in pedestrian-friendly amenity-filled neighborhoods is on the rise, and the baby boomers are at the forefront.”

Kansas City Business Journal Highlights First Office Tenant at Park Place

02.08.2008

The February 8, 2008 issue of the Kansas City Business Journal reported that Tortoise Capital Advisors, LLC’s headquarters will nearly double in size when it makes the move to Park Place and leaves its Corporate Woods location behind.

From the article:

Mike Mayer, an office broker with Colliers Turley Martin Tucker, said “Park Place’s walkability and other features separate the mixed-use development’s office space from others. Interest will probably be strongest from companies whose executives live nearby and want to be near amenities planned for Park Place, as well as the neighboring Town Center.”

First Office Tenant and First Hotel Signed at Park Place

02.06.2008

Tortoise Capital Advisors, LLC and aloft hotel are the newest additions to the Park Place community.

Tortoise Capital Advisors, a pioneer in capital markets for master limited partnership (MLP) investment companies and a leader in closed-end funds, separately manages accounts focused on MLPs in the energy sector. As of December 31, 2007, the adviser had approximately $2.9 billion of assets under management. It is relocating its offices from Corporate Woods office park in Overland Park, Kan., to occupy approximately 17,500square feet at Park Place. Tortoise will move into its new location in mid-May.

aloft, a vision of W Hotels’, has made its way to Park Place. It will be a six-story hotel with 158 rooms that delivers more than just a place to sleep. aloft offers fun, fresh alternatives to the norm, including furnished loft-style guest rooms, oversized showers, flat panel televisions and numerous easy-to-use tech savvy services.

The aloft is franchised under the Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide flag and will open in late 2008.

Commercial Journal Kansas City Announced New Park Place Tenants

02.01.2008

The February/March 2008 issue of Commercial Journal Kansas City announced that RA Sushi and Ingredient are the latest restaurants to join Park Place.

From the article:

“RA Sushi will be a full-service Japanese restaurant with fresh sushi flown in daily. The menu will offer more than 20 signature sushi items, as well as pacific-rim-inspired dishes and an array of sake.”

“Ingredient, a local restaurant with its original location in Lawrence, will offer fast and casual, yet gourmet, dining. Using ingredients from local markets and farmers, Ingredient will offer breakfast, lunch and dinner.”

Park Place Featured in Shopping Centers Today

01.01.2008

In the Pipeline, a supplement to Shopping Centers Today and a guide to the country’s most exciting new retail projects featured Park Place and its developers, Melanie Mann and Jeff Alpert, in its article “Kansas City suburb gets 24/7 environment.”

From the article:

“Located a few hundred feet from city hall, the plush development that shares a name with one of the hottest properties on a Monopoly board will have 200,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space, 350,000 square feet of office space and 350 residential units.”

“This project is very exciting for people who live here because it will be the only place in Johnson County with a 24/7 environment.”

“The restaurants, retail, and leisure space will attract people not only from Leawood, but people from surrounding communities.”

“Milton Bradley would be proud.”

Axis Lofts featured in Multi-Housing News

12.01.2007

Multi-Housing News recently featured the Axis Lofts at Park Place in its ‘news and notes’ section entitled, Loft Spaces to be Built at Park Place.

From the article:

“Axis Lofts is scheduled to open in fall 2008 at Park Place, the first mixed-use destination of its kind in Johnson County. Comprising 26 lofts in a four-story building over underground parking, Axis Lofts will add an urban flair to suburban Leawood. It will be next to Barkley Square, the main active public space at Park Place, where residents can walk to shops, eateries and entertainment. All residences will also overlook the Meadow, a green space with trees, flowers and walking paths.”

Local and national restaurants join Park Place mix

11.28.2007

RA Sushi and Ingredient are the latest restaurants to be a part of Park Place.

RA Sushi is a full-service Japanese cuisine restaurant with fresh sushi flown in daily. The menu offers more than 20 signature sushi items, pacific-rim inspired dishes and an array of saki. RA Sushi has locations in six states and was voted one of the top ten best new restaurants by MSN in 2006.

Ingredient, a local restaurant with its original location in Lawrence, Kan., offers gourmet fresh but fast casual dining. Using all its ingredients from local markets and farmers, Ingredient will offer coffee, breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The menu is friendly to both vegetarians and meat eaters with featured items including build-your-own salads and pizzas.

Park Place Names Greenspace, Installs Pavilion

10.19.2007

Park Place developers named its park after one of Johnson County’s community leaders who was instrumental in the development of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District, John Barkley.

“Since Park Place is located in the community, we wanted to pay tribute to a community leader, said Melanie Mann, co-developer of Park Place. “Barkley seemed the obvious choice because of his involvement with the Johnson County Parks District.”

Once open, activities at Barkley Square will encourage the community to gather all year long, through concerts, festivals and outdoor movies in the warm months and in the winter months it will convert to an ice rink.

Immediately adjacent to Barkley Square is the pavilion, which also is currently under construction. Composed of a steel cast, the structure was fabricated in and shipped from Italy. Once complete, the pavilion will stand approximately 12 feet tall and approximately 38 feet long.

“We chose the Italian design and cast steel material based upon how its decorative components will complement the residential and retail buildings and also because it’s incredibly durable in any type of weather,” said Mann. “Because this type of structure is not typical in the U.S., a specialized crew from Italy arrived last week to install the pavilion.” Opened year around, the pavilion will be used for skate rental, private parties, or a staging area.

New Urbanism at Park Place featured in Kansas City Business Journal

09.07.2007

Park Place was recently mentioned in the ‘In depth: Commercial Real Estate’ focus of the Kansas City Business Journal.

The article discusses how the new urbanism trend of building up and not out has arrived to the 30 acres in Johnson County known as Park Place.

From the article:

“One of the largest and most ambitious New Urbanism projects in the metro area is rising from the ground in Leawood, offering a setting for office space that’s unique to Johnson County.”

“(Melanie) Mann said she and (Jeff) Alpert have expected the typical Park Place office tenant to be a small firm engaged in the service industry, such as law firms or accounting offices, probably occupying spaces of around 3,000 square feet.”

“But we’ve been surprised at the companies that are talking to us about 10,000 to 20,000 square feet,” Mann said. “I’ve known people who have moved from large offices Downtown to the Plaza, and it really enhanced their workday to be in an area like that, and that’s the kind of environment we’re offering.”

“City Administrator Scott Lambers said that as Leawood’s fist approved New Urbanism plan, Park Place has shown other developers that Leawood could be a market for such projects. The city subsequently approved three additional projects that feature elements of New Urbanism – Mission Farms, Mission Corner and Parkway Plaza.

Park Place featured in Shopping Centers Business

08.01.2007

The leading monthly and business magazine for the shopping center industry, Shopping Centers Business, recently published an article about Park Place for its ‘center review’ section. The article was entitled “A Sense of Park Place: New mixed-use development adds unique offering to Kansas shopping district.”

The article entails a breakdown of the center and its live, play, work mentality.

From the article:

“Park Place’s immediate submarket boasts a $100,000-plus median income and has approximately 13 million square feet of office space. There is a nucleus of lifestyle and specialty shopping centers in the immediate vicinity of Park Place.”

“Collectively, it’s becoming the premier retail destination in Johnson County,” says Alpert. “It really is a cohesive retail district that is unique in all of Kansas City.”

“There’s nothing like it in Johnson County,” he says. “It is mixed-use, urban styled and high density relative to anything else in the market. What we’re trying to create is a sense of place, and the fact that it’s pedestrian-oriented and has structured parking also makes it unique for a retail district in Johnson County.”

Melanie Mann Featured in Urban Land

08.01.2007

Urban Land magazine recently had a feature on “Mixed-use Musings: Local governments are attempting to reinvent their municipalities on a traditional planning concept of blended uses” where Park Place Co-Developer, Melanie Mann, was quoted.

The article discusses the growing trend of building mixed-use developments across the entire United States.

From the article, Mann discussed the mixed-use trend by saying:

“You have to look at each component separately and ensure its needs are met from the standpoint of the market,” said Mann. She points out that while ground-floor retail increases the desirability of office space above, tenants expect a similar level of service provided at other Class A office properties in the marketplace, including a dedicated parking area.”

Park Place featured in 435 South

08.01.2007

435 South, the signature community lifestyle magazine created exclusively for the residents of Overland Park and Leawood, Kan., featured Park Place in its recent issue, entitled “Urban Oasis: Park Place delivers a luxurious urban lifestyle in south Johnson County.”

The article discusses what life will be like at Park Place for the future homeowners that will fill its three residential options: Axis Lofts, Meridian condominiums and townhomes.

From the article:

“Watch out, Johnson County – this fashionable new address is creating a lot of buzz and attracting curiosity from homeowners who want to carve out a unique lifestyle in one of the country’s top-rated suburban areas.”

“For the convenience of future homeowners, Alpert and Mann have chosen to construct the retail core of Park Place prior to housing, giving even the first homeowners full access to the diverse selection of retailers and dining.”

“Visually, residents will see streetscapes reminiscent of sophisticated cities like New York City, Boston, San Francisco and Chicago.”

“Park Place promises to be a jewel in Leawood’s crown – an unsurpassed community of urban-minded neighbors in an oasis unique to south Johnson County.”

Five New Tenants Announced for Park Place

07.09.2007

Morton’s The Steakhouse, Fish City Grill, Anabelles Fine Linens, Paciugo Gelato, and Envy Boutique all will be a part of Park Place.

Morton's, the world's largest operator of company-owned upscale steakhouses, will open in spring 2008 at the same time as the development’s two hotels, aloft and element. Patrons will enjoy a variety of steaks, fresh seafood and other fare in a venue that has received multiple awards and recognitions, including the “Most Popular Restaurants” by the Chicago Zagat survey.

Fish City Grill is a casual seafood restaurant with more than 20 locations across the United States. With fresh fish flown in daily and unique regional preparations, its laid-back service is delivered in a warm and cozy atmosphere.

Annabelles is a one-of-a-kind boutique well-known to Kansas City shoppers. Started by mother and daughter team, Betty and Lisa Payne in 1992, Annabelles offers the finest French and Italian linens, goose down bedding and fine bath furnishings. Annabelles also offers sleepwear, infant wear and christening gowns, and a variety of unique gift items.

The locally owned Envy Boutique offers West Coast style women’s clothing with brands such as Smashing Grandpa, Stencil, and Testament. Envy Boutique is moving to Park Place from its current location in Overland Park.

Paciugo Gelato has more than 200 delicious gelato recipes, with 40 flavors made fresh daily. Founded by Cristiana and Ugo Ginatta, with their son Vincenzon, they left their home town of Torin, Italy, to introduce Paciugo Gelato to America. This year, Town and Country Magazine named Paciugo Gelato one of the top 10 ice cream shops in America.

Park Place named one of the Top Projects in Kansas City

06.29.2007

Kansas City Business Journal recently released its list of “Top Area Construction Projects” for 2007. Park Place ranked number 10 based on the overall cost of construction.

These lists are compiled from surveys of construction companies and architecture firms, Kansas City Business Journal news coverage, and firms’ Web sites.

Stay in the Park at Two New Starwood Hotels

05.15.2007

Starwood Hotels, the parent company of St. Regis, Sheraton, Westin and W Hotels is bringing its two newest concepts to Park Place.

aloft, W Hotels’ newest concept, is an ideal choice for young professionals and business travelers. Delivering more than just a place to sleep, aloft offers fun, fresh alternatives to the norm, including stylishly furnished loft-style guest rooms, oversized showers, flat panel televisions and numerous easy-to-use tech savvy services. aloft’s cool bar scene and hip feel fits well within the urban style of Park Place. aloft at Park Place is a six-story hotel with 158 rooms.

element, a new extended-stay hotel brand from Westin, combines modern design with smart features—from modular furniture designed to encourage multi-tasking and productivity to swiveling flat-screen televisions to a kitchenette in each room. The eight-story hotel will include 178 rooms perfect for travelers on extended stay and families visiting the Leawood area. After spending a busy day of shopping, dining, ice skating or movie watching, travelers can return to element to unwind.

Both hotels are operated under the Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide flag and will open fall 2008.

Melanie Mann named one of 50 Influential Women in Kansas City

03.01.2007

Melanie Mann was named one of 50 Influential Women by KCB magazine. As co-developer of Park Place and president of Mann Development Company, she was recognized for her hard work at the first annual 50 Influential Women Luncheon in March.

From the article:
As a commercial developer, Melanie Mann has shaped the landscape of southern Johnson County for more than two decades. She is currently spearheading Park Place, a $125 million mixed-use development near Leawood’s Town Center Plaza. “We wanted to add a place to capitalize on the outstanding assets, amenities and reputation of Leawood—where people could enjoy dining and shopping, as well as civic and social activities,” says Mann. Because of her success as a developer, municipalities have welcomed her influence in their cities. Leawood Mayor Peggy Dunn believes Mann’s influence in the area is “visionary.” She says: “I feel most fortunate that Melanie Mann and Jeff Alpert chose the City of Leawood in which to locate Park Place. [They] raised the bar for all future new-urbanism projects in our community.”

Three New Stores Announced to Open at Park Place

02.23.2007

The Learning Tree, Le Rêve Salon and The Gallery at Park Place have announced their arrival to Park Place, when the first phase of the Leawood retail and office “main street” development opens this fall.

The Learning Tree is a locally owned toy, book and gift store. Their Park Place location is an addition to its Corinth Square store. Offering an array of toys, The Learning Tree also provides weekly story times.

Le Rêve Salon is a chic full-service nail salon featuring a warm and cozy environment. New to the metro area, Le Rêve will feature the latest techniques in manicures, pedicures, gels, silk wraps, acrylic and pink and white nails along with pipeless chairs circulating only fresh water. Le Rêve will be the only nail salon in the area to offer stone manicures and pedicures and citrus spa manicures and pedicures.

The Gallery at Park Place will feature fine original art by well-known artists, with attention to collectible art and originals from some of the top artists in the world. Also, showcased will be fine art glass and sculptures. LCD monitors will show footage of the artists at work as one of the educational facets for patrons to enjoy. The Gallery at Park Place will be the source of building fine art collections as well as educating the public on artists.

Four Restaurants Scheduled to Open at Park Place

01.01.2007

Trezo Vino Wine Bar and Bistro and two new PB&J concept restaurants will make their debut in the metro Kansas City area in fall 2007 when Park Place opens. California Pizza Kitchen will open its second Kansas City location in Park Place as well.

At Trezo Vino Wine Bar and Bistro, locals will be able to choose from one of Trezo Vino’s 165 wines by the bottle and 40 by the glass. Its full bar also features the bistro’s own wines. The menu, which was created as a complement to its wines, features tapas, salads, flatbreads and deserts all created by Chef Michael Peterson and Chef de Cuisine Jose Luis Granados. All of the items are made from scratch and prepared in the exhibition kitchen which invites guests to interact with the chef and watch the food preparation.

International pizza chain California Pizza Kitchen is adding its second Kansas City location at Park Place. Widely known for its innovative “California style” pizzas, such as its Original BBQ Chicken Pizza and the Jamaican Jerk Chicken pizza, CPK has 180 locations in 27 states and five foreign countries. In addition to pizza, CPK serves various kinds of pastas, salads and desserts for meat lovers, vegetarians and the health conscious.

Mixed-Use Development Underway in Southern Johnson County

01.01.2007

Construction is now underway for phase 1 of Park Place development in Leawood, KS. Ground was broken on November 2, 2005, for this $125 million project that will be located at the northeast corner of 117th and Nall.

Park Place is the first mixed-use destination of its kind in Johnson County. It is a pedestrian-friendly development that will offer 52 luxury condominiums, 125,000 square feet of retail shopping, 80,000 square feet of boutique “professional” office space above shops and restaurants along with parks and gardens. Park Place will be located in the heart of Leawood, bringing a vibrant and cosmopolitan lifestyle to one of Kansas City’s most desirable suburbs.

More than 300 people attended the groundbreaking and reception, including Leawood Mayor Peggy Dunn, Leawood City Council members Gary Bussing, Jim Rawlings, Gregory Peppes, James Taylor and Debra Filla, Kansas State Representative Pat Colloton, Leawood Chamber of Commerce Chair Marsha Monica and Leawood Chamber President and CEO Kevin Jeffries.

Putting the Park in its Place

01.01.2007

Additional parks, gardens and trails are coming to Leawood, Kan. When Park Place, a mixed-use pedestrian-friendly development is complete, residents will be able to gather or relax between shopping, dining and working.

Located at 117th Street and Nall, Park Place, will provide an educational experience and encourage the community to gather at the village square go for a walk on the walk/bike trail or just enjoy the flowers in the garden.

Developers Jeff Alpert and Melanie Mann deliberately incorporated lots of green in Park Place.

With sidewalks 20-feet-wide and surrounded by trees, planters and seasonal flowers, Park Place will encourage shopping, outdoor dining and neighborhood entertainment. The 13,440-square-foot public plaza named “The Soleil” will center the entire complex, while the buildings surround it, like planets orbiting the sun.

The Soliel will beckon the community to gather all year long, through concerts, festivals and outdoor movies in the warm months. From November through February, the The Soliel will convert to an ice rink.

Park Place will also contain two parks, and additional green space. The two parks, The Bosque and The Meadow, will feature a total of 54,000 square feet. The parks also will adjoin an 8.5 mile Leawood trail for hikers and bikers.