A sweeping development project could be on Collier Township's horizon if commissioners approve a proposed change to the zoning code. The large-scale project would hinge on the construction of an Interstate 79- Thoms Run Road connector to complete the Kirwan Heights interchange. The connector would enable Praxis Resources, an Annapolis, Md.-based development company, to construct a multimillion-dollar, upscale retail center at what is now Trader Jack's flea market along Thoms Run Road. Representatives from Praxis presented preliminary plans to commissioners Tuesday night during the board's public hearing for a proposed amendment to the zoning code. The amendment calls for creation of a highway interchange district, which would allow for commercial development within the district provided that the I-79 interchange exists. If the interchange is not built, the zoning would remain as is. Mark Mineo, president of Praxis, said he is hesitant to present the plans because they are so preliminary. He said township commissioners requested the presentation. Mineo's brother, Randy, presented the plans to township officials. He said they would like to attract higher-end retail stores and restaurants that aren't in the Pittsburgh market, such as J. Crew, Banana Republic and Sephora. 'This would be low-impact, high-quality retail,' Randy Mineo said. 'For the most part, we want to avoid the 'big box' development. This will have an architectural feel that is considerably upscale.' Anchor stores for the development would carry that upscale theme. Randy Mineo mentioned Crate and Barrel, Fresh Fields or Barnes and Noble as potential retailers. The project would call for the improvement or expansion of Thoms Run Road, along with the I-79 connector road. Cost of the road improvements could range from $12 million to $15 million, which Randy Mineo said could be funded through a tax-increment financing plan. Commonly referred to as a TIF, these plans allow new developments to divert a portion of property taxes toward infrastructure improvements. Mark Mineo said approval of this development proposal could be years away. 'It could take up to three years just to get approval to develop the interchange,' he said. Meanwhile, the group presented its plans for another retail center at a public hearing for a separate change to the zoning code. This change calls for the creation of a new business district, which would allow for offices, specialty retail, sit-down restaurants, hotels and a number of other minor commercial developments. The new 'B-5' zoning district would be similar to another district already in place except that it would not allow for major retailers or adult businesses. Praxis presented plans for Collier Towne Square, which would be at the intersection of Thoms Run Road and Route 50. To move forward with the plans, which include a hotel, upscale sit-down restaurant and high-end minor retail, the developers would ask for the land to be rezoned to the new 'B-5' designation. Randy Mineo said this retail center could include a Starbucks, Montana Mills and a Hallmark Gold Crown Store. He described the anchor store they were negotiating with as an 'upscale furniture and home decor store.' Mark Mineo said he would like construction to begin on Collier Towne Square by the end of the year. Township Manager Gary Williard said there is no date set for the commission to vote on these zoning ordinances, which would impact Praxis' plans. Maggi Newhouse can be reached at mnewhouse@tribweb.com or (412) 306-4535.

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