Developers Wright Runstead have submitted an application for what could turn out to be the next big development in Bellevue: the Spring District.

The $1.5 billion development includes 36 acres of land now occupied by the Safeway distribution site. It is planned to include a mixed-use of office towers, retail outlets and residences.

The development is a transit-oriented project, meaning it is primarily centered around the construction of East Link light-rail through Bellevue. One of the centerpieces of the development, a new hotel, will have an entrance to a light-rail station, according to planning documents submitted to the city.

The project is slated to be built over a 15-year period, in seven distinct phases. According to Wright Runstead’s application, developers hope to begin construction on the project in the first quarter of 2012. However, city representatives said the review of the plan, which does not involve a public hearing, would likely take until the early summer. Those interested can submit public comments about the plan to the city until Dec. 22 at 5 p.m.

The new project is projected to bring nearly 37,000 vehicle trips per day into the area on 124th Avenue Northeast, south of Bel-Red Road, including more than 3,700 during peak evening time, the busiest in Bellevue. Road improvements to 120th Avenue Northeast, and the creation of a new street – Northeast 15th/16th – will help free traffic once the new buildings come in. These are projects in Bellevue’s budget.

The project was an important item on the council in 2009. The body decided to rezone the area for light industrial and residential development. The city and Wright Runstead reached a development agreement around that time.

Representatives from Wright Runstead did not return phone calls requesting comment.

The Reporter will update this story as more information becomes available.