An extensive renovation on Richardson Heights Shopping Center, which is located at on the southwest corner of Central Expressway and Belt Line Road, is scheduled to begin this summer.  Steve Shafter with Shafer Property Company is the owner and developer, and will also lease and manage the property.  NCA Architecture will handle the architecture for the center and Spring Valley Construction Company the construction.  The center dates to the 1950's and has approximately 200,000 square feel.  

Retail revitalization is a top priority with the City of Richardson.  "Heights" is an important piece of retail property near and dear to the hearts of many who have shopped at this center over the years.  An exciting new look and enhanced retail selections will reposition this center in a positive and energetic way.  City Council Member, Steve Mitchell, said, “The renovation of this shopping center is key to our goal of revitalizing retail.  Bringing additional stores and restaurants in to this center, as a result of this renovation, will greatly benefit both the adjacent neighborhood and the entire city.”

Mr. Shafer stated, “Richardson has its own separate trade area, and retailers are trying to service that market from Plano and North Dallas.  Since the best location in the Richardson market is the corner of Belt Line and Central Expressway, our remodel will attract not only those retailers outside Richardson, but retailers inside as well.”

Starbucks Coffee recently committed to the site and will open in the Fall of 2007.  Shafer Property Company wants to attract a variety of other tenants as well, from national junior anchors such as office supply or consumer electronic stores, to great new local restaurants.  “Shafer's investment in the retail future of our community is exciting and their vision is to be commended,” Councilman John Murphy said.  “This is just the kind of retail renewal the City and the Chamber of Commerce have been working towards in our efforts to keep Richardson fresh for generations to come.”