Updated plans for a new retail development on the Portland-Westbrook line that now feature a pond and walking trails will go before the Westbrook Planning Board for an initial review next week.

The project has also acquired a name: Dirigo Plaza.

The 500,000-square-foot development is planned for Main Street and Larrabee Road in Westbrook, across Main Street from another large shopping center, which is anchored by a Kohl’s department store.

The site is currently a gravel pit operated by Pike Industries. But in revised plans, the pit’s former quarry would become a pond with landscaped pedestrian paths.

Jeffrey Gove, the developer, declined Tuesday to say which retailers will be in the plaza, but plans call for three large warehouse-size stores – the biggest is expected to be about 167,000 square feet. Gove said retailers prefer to make the announcement of a new store themselves and said he’s not sure when they will disclose their plans, although he said at least one store is awaiting final corporate approval.

Jennie Franceshi, Westbrook’s interim city planner, said Gove improved the design of a row of small stores that will front on Main Street. She said the update also provided more information on landscaping on the site, which will include trees and shrubs around the perimeter to provide a buffer.

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Gove initially submitted plans to the city in late spring and then provided a more detailed update in early September. He said he also had a meeting with state transportation officials, who will determine whether the project requires traffic pattern and street changes, how many traffic lights will be needed and where they will go.

Franceshi said the Planning Board will take a first look on Nov. 17. That meeting will be informal and is designed to get initial impressions from board members, she said.

If there are no major objections, Franceshi said, the board will probably set a date for a public hearing on the proposal.

Gove has said previously that he hopes to begin construction in late winter, assuming he can get permits in time.


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