The “South of the James” section of this month’s Richmond Magazine has a nice article on the retail state of Westover Hills. Much of this is old news to the neighborhood association folks, but for the rest of us, some juicy tidbits are there. More below the fold…

O’Toole’s is expanding into the former Snelson’s Florist next door. A new pub-style room w/ bar, plus a banquet room and new bathrooms (!!!) will occupy the new space. A patio along 48th Street is coming as well. Things are far enough along that a March completion date is expected.

The other major topic is the empty lot that formerly housed the McCrory Dollar building. The on again/off again project appears to be on again, with an ownership group that includes several local restaurateurs (though they’re not intending to open a restaurant onsite). To their credit, they’re not looking for retail clients that will compete with existing local business (let’s just hope we don’t get check cashing and nail places). The Richmond article suggests the original plans for the development are still in the works; however, a source at Richmond City Watch suggested it would now consist “of a three (3) story building containing a single story retail space with a two (2) story dwelling above and a four (4) unit retail adjacent building.” Bids for subcontractors are due on Jan. 24, so we may have construction sooner rather than later.

Last but not least, the Forest Hill Neighborhood Association and the Westover Hills Merchants Association are both singled out for their efforts in helping improve the area. I think I speak for us all when I thank them (and the other local groups) for all of their work!