The Urbandale Planning and Zoning Commission has approved the first plat for R&R Realty Group’s Highland Pointe Office Park, a future development that has been key to the completion of Plum Drive.

In addition, the commissioners approved rezoning a 15-acre parcel in the 45-acre development for either office or retail use. The City Council still must vote to approve the rezoning.

Urbandale plans to complete Plum from 86th Street west to 100th Street. The city has promised local business owners for several years that it would complete the street as a way to increase traffic volume near their establishments.

A section of the street bisects R&R’s property. Short of exercising eminent domain, the city could not complete Plum without the company’s approval.

A city planning document said the construction of the four-lane street will begin this summer or fall. Developers will be responsible for completing turn lanes.

A related story can be found at http://tinyurl.com/4858ww3.