From drinks to diapers; Business brings new life to PRP Plaza

LOUISVILLE, KY (WAVE) - Customers shouldn't put their ID card away just yet, because a new business taking the place of a former bar will still require people to show it.

The 21 and over rule is gone, because the doors are now open for infants, toddlers, preschoolers and kids.

"We have observation windows in all the rooms so you can clearly see what is going on," child care and preschool owner Scott Judd said.

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Children's Academy Child Care and Preschool is renovating the space where Electric Cowboy operated for nearly six years before closing its doors. The owner of PRP Plaza said he's been extremely careful handing out leases.

"He actually brought to us the idea of potentially leasing his property here," Judd said.

Sitting vacant since June 2014, the 12,500 square foot space kept a lot of people questioning the future of the area. In April, a portion was leased to Maxx Electronic Cigarettes and in July Paint & Party Masterpiece Mixers occupied another portion.

Councilman David Yates District 25 said these new businesses are part of the plan to save the integrity of the neighborhood. Neighbors said they were excited to see a wholesome business replace Electric Cowboy due to reoccurring vandalism to their stores in the past.

"I think there were some problems with the previous business Electric Cowboy, some of the fights, alcohol related issues," said Yates.

Councilman Yates said the new business are proof of economic growth and trust growing in southwest Louisville.

Construction for this new child care center expected to be complete by October. The center is located in PRP Plaza, 8021 Dixie Highway Suite 108. Owners are already receiving inquires. The facility's capacity is approximately 145 children, 6 months old to 12 years old. For more information, call (502) 409-5820 or click here.

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