Troost Avenue Bridge Sparkles

Submitted by Ravin on Tue, 06/05/2012 - 1:10pm

Troost BridgeTroost BridgeWhen Marti Lee first started working at Southtown more than 26 years ago, eighteen-wheelers barreled up and down Troost Ave. (This was before the Bruce Watkins Roadway was constructed.) Then the time came when the Troost Bridge at Volker Blvd. was so deteriorated that it was no longer safe for the 18-wheelers to cross the bridge. Traffic was diverted elsewhere.

In 2001, city and neighborhood representatives began gathering to plan for the replacement of this crumbling 95-year-old bridge. After several years of focus groups, committee and task force meetings, the initial design plans were unveiled which included special walkways and suspensions. Unfortunately, the economy turned and the bids far exceeded the available funds. More time was allocated for redesigning the project. Just as we thought w were finished, along c ame the “stimulus” funds, which injected more requirements along with increased costs.

Taking the Old and Making It New

Submitted by Ravin on Tue, 06/05/2012 - 1:03pm

115 E Gregory Blvd115 E Gregory BlvdThe WABA Property Committee salutes landlords Terry Richardson and Richard Abloff for the
June “Waldo’s Best” honors. The two take it seriously when they develop a property and leave
very little to chance when seeking out tenants and contractors, and it has paid off at 115 E. Gregory Blvd., home of Chop Top Hair Company and Medusa Salon.

New Activity in Brookside

Submitted by Ravin on Tue, 06/05/2012 - 12:49pm

There have been quite a few construction trucks in Brookside lately as spaces were made ready for new businesses and others moved out. Opening right before the Brookside Art Annual, Michael Forbes Grille opened in the vacant Sharp’s Restaurant space at 128 W. 63rd St. and Panera Bread, 6301 Brookside Plaza, directly across the street, opened in the vacant Beauty Express space. Both locations sport new and exciting décor and delicious eats. Meanwhile, Goodcents (formerly Mr. Goodcents) at 6304 Brookside Plaza got a facelift and new signage.

For the past several months, dirt has been turning as construction of the new Commerce Bank continues. The previous bank will be razed. The new design brings the building up to the sidewalks in keeping with the neighboring businesses. Work is expected to be completed by August.

The T-Shirt Deli opens this month in the previous Pickerman’s Sandwich Shop at 116 W. 63rd St. Originally started in Chicago, owner Ninel Pompusuko has expanded her operations to include a shop in Brookside. This one-of-a-kind tshirt shop provides a very unique product. You
will have to stop by and see!

Cutting for a Cause!

Submitted by Ravin on Tue, 06/05/2012 - 12:46pm

The 5th annual Cut-A-Thon benefiting the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children is happening the first week in August at the three House of Heavilin locations in Blue Springs (August 1), Raymore (August 2), and Kansas City (August 3). Each haircut is $5 and 100% of the proceeds are donated. Raffle gifts donated by area businesses add to the fun and success of the event. More than $1700 was raised last year!

Consider donating a raffle item…. A pizza, oil change, gift basket, lunch for 2, etc. All sponsor names will be prominently displayed at the each of the locations and announced continually by the in-house “DJ Pink.” To donate cash or prizes, call Lisa at 816-229-9000x215.