Johnson Square development isn't slowing down

You've probably seen those new brick buildings on Johnson Mill Boulevard, housing businesses like a pizzeria and health clinics. That's all part of the in-progress Johnson Square.

State of play: Johnson Square has been in the works since 2015, but has gained traction lately with residential and office space popping up, plus back-to-back restaurant openings this year.

• 40 residential units are open, including 25 apartments, three houses, six townhomes and six cottages, Ward Davis of High Street Real Estate and Development tells Axios.
• About 620-720 residential units will likely be developed.

The big picture: The 80-acre development screams "live, work, play."

• With a 25 mph speed limit and on-street parking, Davis says the goal is to establish a downtown area for Johnson Mill Boulevard and give NWA residents an affordable downtown option.

1 cool thing: A small park is in the works just across from the building that houses Pizzeria Ruby and Hail Fellow Well Met — or as Davis calls them, "the places that bring heart and soul to the neighborhood."

• The park will have space for hammocks, tables and small concerts.

What's next: Expect steady construction over the next five or so years. High Street plans to pursue an entertainment district, which allows people to drink alcoholic beverages outside within certain boundaries, Davis says.

• "We would love to get a brewery out here," he says.
• A pediatric clinic is expected to open in summer 2021, and a counseling clinic is also in the works. More restaurants and a hair salon would be ideal additions, Davis says.