The 57-acre Meeder property features a distinctive red barn which would be restored, according to the project developer.

CRANBERRY TWP — After more than 15 years of work and discussion, earth could soon be moved and initial plans approved for a major mixed-use development on the township's largest tract of undeveloped land.

The plan for the Meeder property at Route 19 and Rochester Road was recommended for approval by the township Planning Advisory Commission this week. It will now be considered by township supervisors at the end of the month and beginning of September.

The original idea for a town center area was spawned in the early 2000s as part of the Brush Creek Smart Growth Plan, which laid out developments in the Rochester Road corridor. A zoning change paved the way for the expansion in 2008, according to Butler Eagle reports. At the time, the land — which features a distinctive red barn — was still being used for farming, and owners at the time had no plans for development.

Over the next decade a few developers looked at the land for different types of use, according to Dan Santoro, assistant township manager. Ultimately, no plans were submitted to the township.That changed earlier this year, when plans for the mixed-use development were submitted calling for 637 residential units as well as retail shops and restaurants.Read more in Sunday's Butler Eagle.

Earth could soon be moved and initial plans approved for a major mixed-use development on Cranberry Township's largest tract of undeveloped land.