By Caleb Herbert
The last time our Digital Journalism program had the opportunity to report on the omnipresent yet elusive Minarets Crossing, our search for information unfortunately yielded limited results. However, new developments have come to light that are nothing short of thrilling. Minarets Crossing is sure to command the attention of our surrounding area and provide amenities in a convenient way that will be deeply beneficial to our surrounding community.
I recently had the privilege and pleasure of coming into contact with Ms. Rene Christenson, one of the realtors in charge of the development. I was given the opportunity to interview her regarding the history of Minarets Crossing, as well as the future intended for it. The property upon which the development stands has been owned for roughly 30 years by Brad Ditton, a well-respected local real estate broker. Roughly five years ago, Mr. Ditton decided to develop his property with the help of Ms. Christenson, who happens to be a member of the Century 21 Ditton brokerage team.
The rustic and rural design of the picturesque property is intended to house many exciting and convenient amenities rarely seen in the O’Neals community. The big red barn, the preeminent structure of the development, is supposed to hold a food court called El Realito. It will also hold a dog grooming establishment to be named “The Groom Saloon” and a Century 21 real estate office. Adjacent to the barn will be a spacious outdoor dining patio.
The barn isn’t the only new establishment to look forward to. There will be an urban market
going in that will serve various refreshments as well as a Chevron gas station. Lastly, and perhaps most excitingly, there will be a new coffee house assisted by Minarets High School that could offer job opportunities to work experience students in the near future.
Expansion beyond what is already present is in the works, with the future holding potential medical and legal offices, a nail salon, and even a 20-room hotel with a small restaurant. All this and more is coming soon, making Minarets Crossing a development that should be looked at with great anticipation.