Imagine a shopping haven where you can grab everything from groceries to gasoline, all under one roof—welcome to the buzz around Costco's ambitious plans for Lawrence! This isn't just another store; it's a full-scale retail giant stepping into our community, promising convenience like never before. But here's where it gets controversial: with such a massive development, will it boost the local economy or overwhelm our everyday lives? Stick around to dive into the details and see why this proposal has everyone talking.
Costco has officially submitted blueprints to establish a comprehensive outlet right in the heart of Lawrence, complete with its signature perks, and city officials are currently examining the plans through an administrative process. The proposed site sits on the northwest edge where Entrada Drive meets Mercato Drive, just south of the vibrant Rock Chalk Park and the LMH Health West Campus. Fortunately, the land is already designated for commercial purposes, making it a straightforward fit for this grand vision.
The designs, crafted by the talented team at MG2 architects alongside Olsson—a firm specializing in innovative design and engineering—envision a sprawling 22.6-acre plot covering a whopping 983,328 square feet in total. At its core, the actual shopping area spans 158,413 square feet, where customers can expect the usual Costco magic: towering aisles of bulk goods, electronics, and household essentials. The rest of the property is thoughtfully allocated, featuring 834 parking spaces and 24 fuel pumps to keep things running smoothly—think of it as fueling up your car while you shop, a real time-saver for busy folks.
And this is the part most people miss: the developers aren't stopping there. They're eyeing an additional 190 parking spots for future growth, ensuring the site can handle increased traffic. To tie it all together, they're proposing to construct a dedicated full-access road, a welcoming sidewalk, and lush landscaping along Mercato Drive, turning the area into an inviting, pedestrian-friendly zone. Oh, and let's not forget the developer-funded roundabout at the intersection of Entrada and Mercato Drives—a smart traffic-flow solution that could ease congestion and make navigation a breeze, much like how roundabouts in other cities have reduced accidents and improved efficiency.
As a global powerhouse, Costco boasts an impressive network of 617 stores across the United States and Puerto Rico, employing a dedicated team of 219,000 people as of 2024. On average, each location staffs around 350 employees, though this figure can shift based on the store's popularity and scale. For instance, a larger, high-demand store might need more hands on deck to manage the crowds and stock. Curious about the pay? Reports from Glassdoor for the nearby Kansas City Costco reveal entry-level cashiers earning between $37,000 and $46,000 annually, while managers can pull in $80,000 to $137,000. If you're interested in exploring salaries for other roles at that location, check out the detailed breakdowns available online.
Cori Wallace, serving as the city's official spokesperson, has verified that this Lawrence spot will be a true full-service gem. Picture a bustling deli and fully equipped kitchen for hot meals, vibrant floral arrangements, a mouthwatering bakery, crisp fresh produce, and even a Tire Center—Costco's catchy name for their automotive service hub, where you can get tires rotated, oil changed, or minor repairs done without leaving the premises. It's like a one-stop shop for life's essentials, simplifying errands in a way that appeals to families and professionals alike.
The site plans hit the city's desk on October 24, kicking off an administrative review handled directly by Lawrence staff—no need for the Planning Commission's involvement here. Typically, this vetting phase wraps up in four to six weeks, Wallace explained in an email. She also noted that additional paperwork, such as platting requests (think dividing the land into buildable lots) and building permits, might accompany the site plan as part of the broader project rollout. Once everything is finalized and greenlit, the permits will be issued, paving the way for construction to begin.
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Wulfe Wulfemeyer (they/them), our dedicated community reporter, has been part of The Lawrence Times team since May 2025. Reach out to them at wulfe@lawrencekstimes.com.
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Now, here's the controversial twist: Proponents argue that a Costco like this could inject vitality into Lawrence's economy, creating jobs and drawing shoppers from surrounding areas. But detractors worry about the potential strain on local mom-and-pop businesses, increased traffic snarls despite the roundabout, and even environmental impacts from such a large-scale operation. Is this progress or a double-edged sword for our community? What do you think—will Costco's arrival make Lawrence a shopping paradise, or could it disrupt the charming, small-town vibe we cherish? Share your thoughts in the comments below; we'd love to hear your take and spark a lively discussion!
