From the Ground Up: Bedford Side Plaza

Owner/developer: Raga Properties LLC
General contractor: Larry Snyder and Co.
Architect: Baron Design & Associates LLC
Engineers: Lee Engineering and Associates LLC, civil; Miller Engineering PC, structural; CJD Engineering LLC, mechanical, electrical and plumbing
Size: 7,500 square feet
Estimated cost: $1.5 million
Lender: OakStar Bank
Estimated completion: mid-July
Project description: Baron Design & Associates principal Rita Baron bought the former South Oaks Center earlier this year, and through Raga Properties she’s remodeling the retail center and adding 2,200 square feet. She said the expansion makes room for new tenant OakStar Bank, which plans to open its second Springfield branch. St. George’s Donuts and Lloyd’s Cleaners are remaining as tenants, Baron said, but Buckingham’s BBQ restaurant will not return. She said one bay is available, but lease rates are not yet determined. The new design features a mezzanine structure with floor-to-ceiling windows, Baron said, and architectural exterior paneling to create dimension and straight lines that are contrasted against a dark brick veneer.