MARYLAND HEIGHTS (KMOX) – Big box stores and office space near Creve Coeur Lake got the thumbs-up Tuesday night from Maryland Heights Planning Commissioners.

Commissioner Mark Madden cast the only “NO” vote of five, prompting a round of applause from almost everyone in the room.

The 191-acre project would be located along the Maryland Heights Expressway.

“I just don’t want to see you guys do this. I stay in Maryland Heights because of Creve Coeur Lake. If this development goes through, I’ll move to the Loop or the Central West End or someplace central and cool,” said Todd Heilman, whose son’s ashes were scattered in the lake.

The founder of an organization against the development said that she’s tired of seeing empty buildings.

“Economically, we don’t believe it’s sustainable in this economy to build yet another regional retail center. Environmentally, it’s in a very sensitive location. And it does not contribute to our way of live in Maryland Heights,” Melissa Moulton explained.

She and others, however, were happy that the Commission set higher standards for the developers on matters like building design, storm water, landscaping and multiple modes of transportation.

The resolution in support of the development next goes before the City Council, and Moulton vowed that “this is by no means a done deal.”

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