New Commercial Center Planned for Northern El Paso County
Residents of northern El Paso County may soon enjoy an expanded selection of shopping, dining, and services with the proposed development of a new commercial center known as The Legacy at Jackson Landing. This ambitious project, introduced by Legacy Development Partners, is set to occupy a 30-acre site at the northeast corner of the Interstate 25 and Baptist Road interchange in Monument.
Legacy Development Partners, based in Phoenix, has outlined plans for a multifunctional space that will feature a significant 129,000-square-foot retail anchor, referred to as a “Major A” retailer, alongside additional room for a 16,000-square-foot “Major B” retailer. Chris Hake, the firm’s founder and president, emphasized the project’s potential impact at a gathering of local residents last Thursday.
“We’re excited about the diverse array of businesses this will bring to the community,” said Hake. “It’s important that this development not only focuses on retail but enhances the overall mix of services available to residents.” This marks the firm’s inaugural project in Monument, as stated by Hake.
Project Details and Community Response
The site chosen for this development is situated to the north of the Monument Marketplace, which is home to established retailers such as Home Depot, Walmart, and Kohl’s. Bordered by I-25 to the west and vacant land to the east and south, the planned commercial center will be developed in multiple phases. The first phase will see the construction of the Major A retailer, with work potentially commencing in April 2026 pending town approval.
The community meeting provided a platform for residents to express their views on the project. Many attended with cautious optimism, suggesting minor modifications and voicing concerns over existing traffic conditions and sightlines in the area. Current traffic levels along Jackson Creek Parkway, particularly near the intersection with Lyons Tail Road, have already raised safety concerns.
The findings from a traffic study conducted by the developers confirm existing challenges at the problematic intersection. Although no immediate plans for a timed traffic signal installation have been made at Lyons Tail and Jackson Creek, Hake reassured residents that strategies were being devised by local authorities to address these issues effectively.
“Triview Metropolitan District is fully aware of these concerns and has initiated planning for enhancements in that traffic area,” Hake noted, adding that the developers will also focus on improving public right-of-way along Blevins Buckle Trail and will implement a timed traffic signal at its intersection with Jackson Creek Parkway.
Community Considerations and Future Outlook
Future plans for the commercial site illustrate the potential addition of a four-story hotel, which has sparked discussions among local residents. Some, like Craig Glass, expressed worries that the hotel could obstruct mountain views and lead to increased traffic and noise pollution.
Suggestions from residents during the meeting included incorporating more accessible pathways and safer parking solutions to enhance pedestrian access throughout the commercial center. Sara Petrie, one attendee, highlighted the necessity of expanding local services to keep pace with Monument’s growing population. “We need more options for businesses in this town. It feels like there’s been inconsistent planning, but I’m hopeful for a positive change,” she remarked.
As this proposal moves forward, the town council is encouraged to heed community feedback to sustain residents’ quality of life, as emphasized by Glass.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Northeast corner of I-25 and Baptist Road |
| Site Area | 30 acres |
| Major A Retailer | 129,000 square feet |
| Major B Retailer | 16,000 square feet |
| Start Date | Projected for April 2026 |
As this development unfolds, residents will have continued opportunities to engage in public meetings to voice their thoughts on the proposed project. Previous discussions surrounding commercial developments in the area have been contentious, particularly with recent decisions affecting industrial projects which have merged into larger discussions about community growth and infrastructure improvements.
