By Angela T. Koenig
Enquirer contributor

GREEN TOWNSHIP - Pending approval of a zoning change, about five acres at 6945 Harrison Ave. - just west of Interstate I-74 - could become the site of new retail development.

"We think it's a good location, with good visibility from I-74," said local developer David House of HOCO Development LLC.

The plan is to build an 18,000-square-foot strip center with 12 leased spaces. One of the spaces, about 5,000 square feet, is being considered for a dining establishment.

"But we're leaning more toward a retail-type center to service the expanded residential area," House said.

No lease customers have been identified as yet, he said.

The property is zoned A residential. Mr. House is requesting a change to EE planned retail.

County commissioners have the final say.

"It's gone through all the planning and zoning commissions with endorsements, subject to conditions," such as landscaping, said Green Township Development Director Adam Goetzman. If approved, construction could begin this spring, he said.

Commissioners will meet at 10 a.m. Wednesday at the County Administration Building, room 605, 138 E. Court St.