The how, where and when to expand the
Douglas J facility in Okemos has been under discussion for years.
“Original ideas included expanding the current space with renovation and construction,” says Douglas J Marketing Director Christina Minnis. “We have also considered other buildings in Meridian Township.”
The plan that won out in the end among Douglas J officials was announced with much excitement earlier this month. The cosmetology school has proposed to purchase three buildings near the intersection of Okemos and Ardmore Roads in Downtown Okemos and replace them with two new buildings, a 25,000 square foot Douglas J facility and an 18,000 square foot mixed use building.
“Okemos has been our home for over 30 years,” says Minnis. “We feel a part of this community and are invested not only in the success of the Downtown Okemos community, but also the capitol city and to the state of Michigan. We are hoping this development will serve as a catalyst for growth in the area, specifically Downtown Okemos.”
Douglas J currently utilizes multiple off-site facilities to accommodate their Okemos operations such as office space, storage, training and prep areas. The proposed three-story development would allow Douglas J to consolidate those spaces and add new amenities, such as a fitness area. The new building would more than double the school’s square footage.
The next step to move the plan toward development is a planning commission review on June 25. If all goes well, Douglas J hopes for a 2014 completion.
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