More than a decade ago, Chesterfield entered into a public-private partnership that transformed the dormant Cloverleaf Mall site into a thriving mixed-use development known as Stonebridge.
The success of that project convinced county leaders that Chesterfield should act as catalyst for the revitalization of another underutilized shopping center at the intersection of Midlothian Turnpike and Chippenham Parkway.
Chesterfield’s Economic Development Authority acquired the 42-acre Spring Rock Green property in September 2021, then hired internationally recognized architectural firm Cooper Carry to create a master plan for its redevelopment as a dense, walkable urban village.
The first tangible step in fulfilling that vision took place Tuesday morning, when Chesterfield ceremonially began the process of demolishing the shopping center to make way for a new mixed-use development known as Springline at District 60.
“It’s a historic event,” said Kevin Carroll, chair of the Board of Supervisors. “We’re thrilled the county could step in and breathe new life into a space that once was a prominent retail center in Chesterfield.”
Springline at District 60 will include a blend of residential, retail, office and entertainment uses with abundant green space and connectivity, featuring multiuse trails, wide streetscapes and structured parking to promote walkability, safety and convenience.
At the center of the development will be an open, green plaza/gathering space ideal for concerts, farmers markets, festivals and public events.
“Revitalization is such an important part of smart growth. It contributes to the county’s mission of reinvesting in existing communities while protecting environmental resources and promoting a vibrant, thriving economy and job base, generating significant tax revenue for the county,” said Dr. Mark Miller, who represents the Midlothian District on the Board of Supervisors.
Construction of Springline at District 60 will occur in multiple phases. The first phase will include a 6-story mixed-use building, a 150,000 sq. ft. corporate office building, a festival-like common area, and a large sports tournament and entertainment venue. Remaining phases will add more apartments, townhouses, more commercial space, another office building, an extended stay hotel, entertainment venues and an expanded central festival square.
Collins Enterprises will develop the initial phase of the residential and commercial properties for Springline at District 60. The company will build 300 residential units, 27,000 sq. ft. of commercial space, and a secure, enclosed parking facility. The total investment from Collins for this portion of the project is approximately $85 million.
Collins Enterprises has been part of many successful redevelopment projects across the country, including Palmer Square in New Jersey and Harbor Plaza in Connecticut. The company also has worked with cities to revitalize their downtown areas, most recently the Freemason Harbor project in Norfolk.
“This is a great example of how we can partner with private industry to provide something unique that may not have otherwise happened,” Carroll said. “We’re confident Springline at District 60 will be another outstanding success.”
The project identity and branding for Springline and District 60 were developed by Cooper Carry through a six-month process and included participation from more than two dozen community, business and county leaders.
The name Springline celebrates the rich history of Beaufont Springs close to the site. District 60 incorporates the broader area along Midlothian Turnpike, which also includes Stonebridge, the adjacent Boulders office park, other nearby businesses and future development projects.
Chesterfield’s ambition is for Springline at District 60 to become a name-recognized destination – a place to drive to, not through – for residents of the Richmond region.
“I have a dream that one day someone will say ‘Meet me at District 60 and we’ll figure out what to do when we get there,’” said County Administrator Dr. Joe Casey.
“You’re beginning to see the nexus between this property and the one across the street. There’s a life and vibrancy here that hasn’t been for a long time,” he added. “This is the start of something beautiful for generations to come.”
