INFOCUS

Pictured from L to R: Brian Rodrock, CEO; Jeff Reglin, CMO; Jeff Gifford, COO

DEVELOPING JOHNSON COUNTY

RODROCK DEVELOPMENT HAS BEEN CREATING A SENSE OF COMMUNITY IN THE KANSAS CITY AREA FOR DECADES

WRITTEN BY ALLISON GIBESON / PHOTOS COURTESY OF RODROCK DEVELOPMENT

aving developed more than 75 communities in Johnson County throughout its history, it’s nearly impossible to drive through Overland Park, Olathe, or Lenexa without coming across a Rodrock Development community. With such a presence in the area, Brian Rodrock, chief executive officer, said the company is passionate about the lifestyle they provide for those who live in their communities. “What sets us apart is we begin every project with a passion to make sure we finish it at a level where people are excited to come home,” Rodrock said. Rodrock said the company’s success has come not just from its history or the fact that they buy and

Hdevelop land in prime locations with great school districts. He said it also comes from their vision to develop these areas into ideal places for families. He said this vision stems from their own family values and what they want in life. The company was originally founded by Rodrock’s father, Darol, in the early 1980s. Today, Brian and his brothers-

in-law Jeff Gifford and Jeff Reglin lead the company and continue the family tradition. Development is as active as ever, with 18 of their communities currently selling new homes.

One of the newest communities currently under development is Sundance Ridge, located near 175th Street and Mission Road. “It is our first master-planned community that is going to have four distinct neighborhoods,” Rodrock said.

He said the community will include a clubhouse, two swimming pools, more than four miles of trails, and an indoor sports court. Additionally, he said one unique element of the community will be the presence of pocket parks nestled along trails and sprinkled throughout the community. These smaller parks will allow for a recreational option closer to many residents’ homes, as opposed to one larger, primary community amenity. “We intend to create little treasures inside the community,” Rodrock said. Another unique aspect about Rodrock Development is how they seek to build community in their neighborhoods through a program they call Mom’s Council. These are groups of parents the company sponsors financially during the beginning of the communities to support activities in the neighborhood such as Easter egg hunts, 4th of July bike parades, and Christmas events. The activities are designed to get residents out of their homes, meeting and developing relationships with their neighbors.

Rodrock said the builders in their communities allow for customizations of homes to meet specific needs of Johnson County buyers. He said most of their builders are locally focused as opposed to having a national reach. This local focus allows for homes unique to Kansas City. Since the pandemic began they have also been able to meet specific customer needs, such as providing additional office space and outdoor living.

There is no doubt real estate and development has been impacted by the pandemic, with homes on the market going quickly. “The biggest obstacle we have is our lack of inventory,” Brian said. “We cannot get houses built fast enough.” As such, the company is moving ahead full steam.

Given how well established they are in the Kansas City area, they are even looking to expand beyond Johnson County. “We intend to expand north of the river and into Lee’s Summit because we think we will be recognized well in different markets,” Rodrock said.

“What sets us apart is we begin every project with a passion to make sure we finish it at a level where people are excited to come home.”

Rodrock Development • rodrock.com • 9550 Dice Lane, Lenexa, KS • 913.681.2121