Mallory Herrmann
citydesk@lstribune.net

Developing Potential Inc. plans to expand their operations in Lee’s Summit. With a recommendation for approval from the city’s planning commission, DPI will present their plan to build new facilities to the city council.

DPI was founded in 1993 and has three locations in the metro area to serve about 150 individuals with severe developmental disabilities. They provide occupational therapy, physical therapy, job coaching and other support services to clients aged 18 to 65. Their services are often used as a continuum of care for those who have graduated from high school and no longer receive services through the school system. The new space will include nine classrooms and locker space, as well as a fenced outdoor patio, to support their day habitation services.

The new building will be located on two lots on NW Executive Way, just north of 50 Highway and Third Street. It will be nearly 20,000 square feet and have 79 parking spaces, allowing the agency to support the 70 individuals on their wait list. About 30 people are currently served out of their corporate office space at 251 NW Executive Way. With the new space, DPI will be able to serve between 100 and 130 people in Lee’s Summit.

The preliminary development plan was approved unanimously. Commissioners Herman Watson, Carla Dial, and Jeff Sims were absent from the Sept. 25 meeting. Colene Roberts has resigned from the commission.

The planning commission will begin meeting on Thursdays moving forward. Their next session will be Oct. 11.