Embracing Growth and Preserving Parkville’s Charm

Parkville, a quaint and picturesque city in Missouri, has experienced rapid expansion in recent years. This growth has presented challenges for city officials, who are trying to strike the perfect balance between embracing development and preserving Parkville’s small-town charm. The addition of new housing developments, such as Village on the Green, is expected to diversify the city’s housing stock and accommodate the needs of first-time homebuyers and retirees looking to downsize.

Addressing Challenges of Rapid Growth

The city’s population has grown from 7,100 in 2020 to an estimated 8,500 currently, making Parkville the second-fastest growing city in the metropolitan area. With the increase in population comes the need for additional amenities and infrastructure. Parkville has managed to maintain its workforce of around 40 city employees, but there are plans to make some changes to manage the growth and accommodate residents’ desire for outdoor amenities.

In November, officials plan to ask for an increase in the local use tax, which would generate as much as $300,000 per year. The tax would be applied to online purchases from out-of-state vendors and would fund various projects, such as construction, maintenance, and repairs of trails and pedestrian corridors, as well as transportation and infrastructure improvements.

Village on the Green: A Step Towards Diversifying Housing Options

Village on the Green, a 240-unit development featuring townhomes and attached units, is one of the projects aimed at diversifying Parkville’s housing options. First proposed in 2021, the project has faced several delays but is expected to receive final approval soon. This development will provide much-needed housing for first-time homebuyers and retirees who wish to downsize.

One recent concern surrounding the project is the construction of a special entrance for emergency vehicles. While some residents fear that the entrance could later serve as a public street, both the mayor and the project developer have assured that access will be limited to emergency vehicles only.

Preserving Parkville’s Charm While Growing

City officials understand the importance of preserving Parkville’s charm, even as the city continues to grow. In addition to reviewing and updating city processes and guidelines for new developments, they are also updating the city’s parks plan and selecting a planning firm to help with the process. These measures are aimed at ensuring that Parkville can grow and develop while still maintaining its unique charm and appeal.

Conclusion

As Parkville continues to grow and evolve, the city is working hard to find the right balance between development and preserving its small-town charm. With projects like Village on the Green and the proposed local use tax increase, Parkville is taking steps to address the needs of its growing population while maintaining its unique character. By staying proactive and adaptable, Parkville can continue to thrive as a charming and desirable place to buy a home and live in the metropolitan area.

If you’re considering moving to Parkville or the surrounding areas, such as Weatherby Lake, Beacon Hill, or Hospital Hill, Jessica Fulk can help you find the perfect home. With extensive knowledge of the area and expertise in real estate, Jessica is ready to help you sell your current home and find your dream home in Parkville or its neighboring communities.