By the end of next year, West Osage will be expanded into a charming five-lane thoroughfare, and there will be sidewalks from Seventh Street to Indian Warpath Drive. Antique-replica streetlights and 150 maple and ash trees will line the sidewalks to further enhance the improvements to West Osage. Additionally, the new ramps will create a new interchange at LaMar Parkway which will provide easier access to the new commercial district created by the West Osage improvement project.

All of these changes will facilitate economic growth and retail development. City officials realize that retail developers will have increased interest in Pacific once the improvements are in place. The Lazy Larry property located on West Osage is a prime location for a large retail development. The property owner is working with city officials to improve the site to attract business opportunities.

The property that was once occupied by the Chevrolet dealership has been sold, and the new property owner plans to demolish the building in early 2010. New businesses will be constructed on the site next year. Pacific's Planning and Zoning Board and the board of aldermen have approved the property to be used for a travel center, fast-food restaurant and a hotel.

Additionally, another new development is planned for the north side of I-44 in Pacific. LaMar Investment Capital is creating "The Falls," an 80-acre mixed use complex that will include retail and commercial facilities. It is located on Hogan Road within Pacific's city limits and highly visible from I-44.

City officials want to thank the public in advance for their patience while the road construction along West Osage is under way. Although it may be an inconvenience now, the community can look forward to having a beautiful new commercial and retail district that will accommodate Pacific's future growth and development.