LIBERTY TWP — A new $2 million strip center in this fast-growing suburb is set to open by July on the corner of Cincinnati-Dayton Road and Liberty Center Drive near the Michael A. Fox Highway.

        Construction on Liberty Pointe, a 14,700-square-foot facility on 2.5 acres, is under way at the southeast corner of the interchange, said John Thompson, senior vice president of retail for the Everest Group.

        The township's second Skyline Chili will anchor the plaza, which sits in front of a self-storage facility already on Liberty Center Drive. It will face the Kroger shopping plaza across Cincinnati-Dayton Road.

        “There's a strong need for that type of business out here. We are delighted to see the development,” Liberty Township Administrator Nell Kilpatrick said. “The architecture is very pleasing and fits in well with the Liberty Township plan.”

        Business has been designated in four areas in the township:

        • Ohio 747 around Princeton Road, extending north to Ohio 4.

        • The Fox Highway and Cincinnati-Dayton Road.

        • Along Ohio 4 just east of Fairfield Township.

        • Interstate 75 and the Fox Highway

        But some residents are fighting development west of Cincinnati-Dayton Road. A referendum, the second one in less than a year, will be held in May to overturn zoning for two developments proposed for the intersection of Ohio 747 and Princeton Road.

        Those opponents, however, say they have no problem with the new strip center because that area already is dotted with development.

        “It's not in the middle of a subdivision, so I guess there doesn't seem to be much concern,” Robert Hoffman, 56, said. “It doesn't seem like a spectacular development, though. It's just another strip mall and chili parlor. Does anybody ever ask the people, "What the heck do you want here?'”

        Liberty Pointe is being built with a mix of stone and glass and stucco-type material for a villagelook. So far, only one tenant — Skyline Chili — has signed, but others are expected soon, Mr. Thompson said.

        The Skyline Chili is relocating from its long-time location in Lakota Plaza in West Chester. Skyline officials said that site has become too small.

        “We are also in the process of signing a Subway, a high-end hair salon, Beaux Monds Hair Salon & Spa, and have interest from Maggie Moo's Ice Cream,” Mr. Thompson said.

        The center will house eight tenants.

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