‘Long time coming:’ After 15 years, a building rises at Mission Gateway in JoCo

For the first time in 15 years, something new is rising from the dirt and weeds of the long-vacant site of the former Mission Mall in Johnson County.

After years of false starts, construction is well underway at the Mission Gateway development — a $225 million project that’s highly visible for commuters along Shawnee Mission Parkway, just west of Roe Avenue. It will include a massive entertainment complex, food hall, apartments, offices and shops.

“It’s been a long time coming, that’s for certain,” Mission Councilman Ken Davis said. “I am glad that we’ve persisted and we’ve kept our relationship with the developer on track. He has stuck with it, and we’re grateful for that. I think it’s going to be a real benefit for the city.”