GK Development, Inc., the company that owns North Grand Mall, 2801 Grand Ave., unveiled plans Thursday night to renovate and expand the mall.

The expansion would be a counter to the proposed building of a new lifestyle center at 13th Street and Interstate 35.

The plan calls for an extension through where Sears now exists, with an “outdoor streetscape kind of sense,” said Dan Sullivan, senior vice president of development for GK Development.

Ames residents are excited about the way the plans are looking and that the firm is community-minded.

The plan would call for an addition of a series of smaller “lifestyle” shops, and there has been discussion of expanding Younkers an additional 20,000 to 30,000 square feet, with plans to expand its housewares department.

Along with additions, the plan calls for renovation of the existing space.

Although Ames residents have some concerns, overall, at the meeting they appeared to have a positive outlook.

“I love it. I think it’s an awesome idea,” said Nancy Marion, Ames resident. “The fact that they [GK development] seem to be so community-minded is great.”

One of the concerns voiced by the residents included parking and traffic. Some residents are also concerned with safety for pedestrians who are walking or biking to the mall.

The plan does not call for any additional parking spaces, and a traffic engineer is currently working on a traffic study of the area, Sullivan said. The bus routes would remain the same, and additions such as bike racks and pedestrian walkways leading up to the mall are being taken into consideration.

Sullivan urges residents to voice their opinions and give input in any area, saying there are still open issues, and now is the time to get those issues resolved.

“I hope they do make sure they have the access for the bus, bikes and walking, as they said they would. I’m excited about that,” said Ron Orth, Ames resident.

Ron’s wife, Darlys Orth, is also onboard with the plan.

“I’m for keeping this mall. I really like the plan,” Darlys said.

The company plans on beginning renovations in 2007, although they are currently “working through their process with the city,” Sullivan said.