By Brad Ziegler
Martin City area business owners and leaders expressed interest and excitement about proposed development for the vacant lot at 300 East 135th Street, just west of the former RC’s building, at a recent meeting of the Martin City Community Improvement District.
Brett Johnson presented his plans for a hybrid storage and retail project called Flex Caves, that he describes as “a groundbreaking flex model at the intersection of lifestyle, workspace and storage.” The Martin City project would be the launchpad for the concept that he hopes to bring to multiple markets nationwide.
Johnson explained that “Flex Caves is designed as a modern, highly adaptable space that blends small-format commercial, retail, and personal-use units under one brand. We’re exploring a model that prioritizes flexibility — think boutique retail, private garages, local studios, or even startups — all powered by a premium, rental-based structure to maximize security and accessibility.”
The project includes three options for tenants – Shop Caves for retail and client-facing businesses on the front of the development facing 135th Street, Prime Caves for luxury customizable showcase retreats, and Pro Caves for functional dual purpose workspaces for tradespeople and solopreneurs. The plans are to build out the project in phases based on demand.
The five acre lot that Johnson hopes to develop has long been an area of concern and complaints by neighboring businesses due to lack of upkeep by the property’s owner. The site has had a for sale sign on it for nearly a decade but has had development limitations created by a stormwater capture obligation that ran with the property.
The developer met with the City Plan Commission last week to seek approval of an amendment to the Martin City Area Plan and a zoning change from B-2 Commercial to a more diversified Master Planned Development, as well as approval of a preliminary plat for the property. They plan to meet with the Board of Zoning Adjustments this week.
Vickie Wolverton, District Manager of the Martin City CID, was impressed by the developer’s presentation and feels that the project can help diversify the mix of options for businesses and shoppers in the area. “The Flex Caves provide a unique opportunity for all sorts of new activity in Martin City and we are excited to continue to learn more about the project and what we can do to help bring it to fruition.”
The developer has entered into an option to purchase the site from current owner, Andrew Osman with ARO Real Estate, and is working with RFJ Architects, who have developed elevation, site plans and security plans for the proposed project. They also have a contract with St. Louis-based ARCO construction, who has offices in Riverside and in forty-four other locations around the country. The developer is also completing an independent market demand analysis that will assess lease demand and targets in the area.
Johnson is hoping to break ground in early 2026 and welcome tenants within 8-9 months thereafter. He stresses, however, that “we’re still early in the process and working through several key approvals before anything is finalized. We’re in the due diligence and planning phase. We’ve completed initial feasibility work, site testing, and concept design, and are now working closely with the landowner, city officials, and community leaders to shape the next steps.”
Johnson said that Martin City was an easy choice for the project. “It’s a gem — walkable, well-branded, community-driven, and full of personality. We think there’s an opportunity to add something new that fits the spirit of Martin City but also pushes the boundaries of what people expect from traditional retail or flex space.”
More information about the developer’s plans can be found online at www.flexcaves.com.
Discover more from Martin City Telegraph
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.