LU seeks permit to bring programs to The Plaza

Liberty University is seeking a permit that will give it greater flexibility to bring new education programs to The Plaza.

LU representatives said they hope to one day attract a technical or beauty school to the shopping center as part of their ongoing efforts to revitalize that site.

Current zoning limits the size of education programs located there to 100 students. LU wants to raise that limit in preparation for its future vision.

Representatives said it is not the school’s intent to use the extra capacity for itself. LU does use some of the Plaza for its own programs, but officials said that’s temporary and they do not want continue it on a permanent basis.

The city planning commission voted unanimously Wednesday to recommend a permit that imposes a new limit of 700 students. It will be forwarded on to City Council, which will cast the final vote on the matter.