VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WVEC) -- The next phase of Town Center's development in Virginia Beach is going before City Council next week for a vote.
Developer Armada Hoffler wants to develop an open-air parking lot right across from the Sandler Center.
The 33,000 sq ft development would include a residential tower, a restaurant, space for retail, and a 300-seat theater.
"I think it's pretty exciting. Every time Town Center grows, we grow with it. We've been here 10 years, so we've seen a lot of changes in Town Center. The theater has already opened in a smaller venue and it's great," co-owner of The Royal Chocolate Brenda Tusing said.
The Zeider's American Dream Theater Company has already set up in a temporary location off of Bank Street. It's just waiting for Armada Hoffler to get the okay from City Council.
"We have done very well here as a small business. I think whatever comes out of the ground over there is gonna add to not only our business, but the city as well," Tusing said.
But others like Hannah Harris are concerned about what this means for parking in the area.
"I park my car there, so I probably wouldn't want it there. There's already a lot of really big towers and apartments here," she said.
The development does not include additional parking. Instead, a pedestrian walkway that connects to one of the existing parking garages will be built.
"I know a lot of people that don't like to park int the parking garage because people will mow you down in their car," Harris said.
"I think the parking issue will be a huge loss for us --that's the main thing, but if its gonna help us out in the long run, maybe," Virginia Beach resident Meagan DiCade said.
According to the City's economic development department, the project could help generate over $6 million in revenue, excluding real estate taxes.
City Council will vote on the project on Dec. 1.