Petition to Oppose High-Density Apartment Development at Monticello & Prairie Star Parkway

Continental Properties has proposed a development consisting of nine three-story, high-density apartment buildings (nearly 300 apartments in total) at the northwest corner of Monticello Road and Prairie Star Parkway. We, the undersigned, strongly oppose this proposal as it is fundamentally misaligned with the character, scale, and values of our community.

This development would significantly increase pressure on Manchester Park Elementary School, which is already operating at capacity with no room to expand. The developer estimates 50–60 school-age children from this complex alone—equivalent to two new classrooms—without accounting for other pending developments in the area.

Traffic concerns are also critical. The roundabout at Prairie Star Parkway and Monticello has already been the site of multiple accidents, including one involving a school bus. Additional traffic generated by this project will likely cut through the Manchester Park neighborhood—directly in front of the elementary school and along a route heavily used by pedestrians and cyclists heading to the nearby trailhead—putting children, pedestrians and cyclists at greater risk.

The project also threatens the natural beauty and recreational value of Coon Creek Trail and Black Hoof Park, two of Lenexa’s most cherished public assets. The planned 30-foot retaining wall and building height on the west side of the property would result in an 85-foot rise above the trail—creating the effect of a six-story wall looming over trail users and permanently altering the experience of this public space.

The proposed buildings are not only inconsistent with surrounding land use and zoning expectations but also require a height variance beyond current city standards—compromising the trust residents placed in Lenexa’s long-term planning when choosing to live here.

Moreover, the developer has a concerning track record. Continental Properties, based out of Wisconsin, has no existing presence in the Kansas City area (or the lower Midwest). They carry a D- rating from the Better Business Bureau for unresolved complaints and in this project misrepresented their community outreach efforts to the Planning Commission—claiming to have contacted all neighboring HOAs, which is untrue.

The developer will blast through the limestone on this property, scaring the land and creating seismic activity with potential to damage the foundations of nearby homes.

To be clear, we are not opposed to growth, but we believe development should be responsible, community-centered, and consistent with Lenexa’s vision for livability. Lenexa is known for its thoughtful growth, outstanding parks, and strong sense of community—values this project undermines.

This is not the right transitional housing product for this location. 

We respectfully urge Mayor Sayers and the Lenexa City Council to reject this proposal in its current form. We ask for development that enhances rather than detracts from the quality of life, safety, and character of our neighborhood. 

By signing this petition, we stand together to protect our community’s future. Please sign and share to make your voice heard and attend the Lenexa City Council Meeting on Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at 7p.m. The meeting will be held in the first floor Community Forum at Lenexa City Hall, 17101 W. 87th St. Pkwy., Lenexa, Kansas.