White Castle coming to South Lebanon

SOUTH LEBANON — Village officials here have taken another step in meeting their goal of “10 in 2010” when its planning commission gave conditional approval for a White Castle restaurant.

To be located at Rivers Crossing Pavilion on Ohio 48 next door to the already approved Chick-fil-A, construction is expected to begin in the spring for the restaurant chain. Completion of both is scheduled before fall, officials said.

Plans for the South Lebanon White Castle include a prototype building of masonry instead of the traditional ceramic tile, but with the same identifiable blue and white colors as established chains and architectural details of battlements to resemble a castle. Planners expect 70 percent of business to come by drive-through trade, they said.

Chick-fil-A plans call for a 4,596-square-foot facility with interior seating to accommodate 136 patrons and exterior accommodations for 60 percent of business expected to come by way of drive-through trade, according to planners.

The village’s aim is to meet 10 progress goals during the year. At least five of them are on the horizon, said mayor James Smith.

In addition to the commercial activity at Rivers Crossing, officials are planning development of what is called Deerfield Park on Main Street.

“We’re calling it Deerfield Park because it will be dedicated to the village’s original name of 215 years ago. Our village was called Deerfield for over 100 years before it was named South Lebanon,” Smith said.

Completion of the South Lebanon Early Learning Center located on village-owned land near the intersections of Forest and Section streets also is expected before fall. The first of its kind in the county, the $2.3 million Warren County Community Services facility will not only provide high-quality child care and educational services to children up to age 5, it will provide jobs and aid in the economic growth and development of the village and surrounding areas, according to Larry Sargeant, WCCS executive director.

Rebuilding of the boat ramp at Rogers Park also is part of the village’s agenda. Reconstruction will provide access for the Union Twp. fire department’s swift water rescue boat as well as launching of water craft for recreational activities on the Little Miami Scenic River, the mayor said.

“Most of the projects will provide people with employment opportunities and services. The year is starting off well for us,” Smith said. “Our agenda is aggressive for 2010. It also includes several beautification projects and water line improvements. It’s going to be a busy year, that’s for sure.”

About the Author