LIBERTY TWP.

The mega retail center slated for Liberty Twp. along Interstate 75 has yet to be issued a building permit, and the developer now anticipates starting construction by the end of February.

Columbus-based developer Steiner + Associates plans to build an approximately 1.4 million-square-foot mixed-used shopping, office and residential complex in Liberty Twp. at the intersection of Ohio 129, Interstate 75 and Liberty Way. The projects first phase is expected to be a more than $300 million investment encompassing 65 acres. Site work has already begun.

Liberty Center, as the development is named, has been described as a city within a township.

Construction equipment and crews on site have been preparing for the start of construction, clearing trees and leveling ground. Several vacant houses acquired on the property were demolished at the end of 2013.

However, not until this week have the developer or subcontractors received necessary approvals to start any building or infrastructure construction, the Journal-News has learned.

Butler County Commissioners approved on Monday an extension of the countys water and sewer lines to the property. Commissioners also approved the county water and sewer department to offer services to Liberty Centers future business tenants and residents.

The latest approval allows the developer to begin underground work of the pipelines, storm sewers and water lines, said Bob Leventry, director of the countys water and sewer department.

Meanwhile, the Journal-News has also learned that a parking garage will be the first building constructed at Liberty Center, based on county records.

Butler Countys development department is currently reviewing the projects first building permit for the footer and foundation of the first of three parking garages as proposed in the projects layout, said David Fehr, Butler County development director.

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Parking garage to mark start of mega Liberty Twp. retail center construction