New neighborhood off Nicholson to include retailers

The population of south Baton Rouge along Nicholson Drive has grown a lot in recent years with the creation of new residential developments, but everyday necessities, such as gas and groceries, still remain far for most. That’s why developer Greg Flores is planning to build retail and commercial office space for a 274-lot neighborhood, Lexington Park, to the south of Lexington Estates. “It’d be great to have a small, deli-style grocery there,” Flores says. He also anticipates the possibility that a bank and other retailers, such as a dry cleaners store, could move to the Nicholson development. Lexington Park, which is technically a third phase of Lexington Estates, will bring the total number of homes Flores has built in the area to 442. The first phase was built in 2006. Before new homes are built, Flores says, he’ll first build a clubhouse at the entrance to Lexington Park that will provide a pool, tennis courts and baseball field for the neighborhoods. The rear of Lexington Park will also include a 9-acre retention pond encircled by a walking path, complete with landscaping and lighting. “This will be part of the neighborhood,” Flores says, rather than a backyard amenity for a select number of homes. Demand for residential housing has been strong in the area, Flores says, and he expects Lexington Park to kindle early pre-sales for lots. “I’m basically sold out of lots in Lexington Estates,” he says. —Adam Pearson