Planning Commission greenlights major Loma Vista Marketplace changes

In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the proposed modifications to the Loma Vista Marketplace Planned Commercial Center, located within planning area 5 of the Loma Vista Community Center. The center, which spans approximately 23 acres south of Shaw Avenue and west of Leonard Avenue, is currently about 30% built out and continues to undergo construction.

Originally established in early 2021, the center has seen several changes since its inception, including the addition of a Chipotle restaurant and modifications to existing buildings. The latest proposal involves accommodating a national retail user, Tractor Supply, which requires a 20,000 square foot outdoor display area. This necessitates the removal of a building along Sanders Avenue, raising concerns about maintaining pedestrian connectivity in the area.

To address these concerns, the applicant has collaborated with city staff to introduce a new pedestrian feature along Sanders Avenue. This feature will include a 10-foot meandering trail, benches, a trellis, and enhanced landscaping, aimed at preserving the pedestrian-friendly focus of the center.

Additionally, the applicant seeks to modify the existing use schedule to explicitly allow outdoor display areas for retail stores, which is currently not specified. A parking study conducted for the project concluded that the outdoor display area would not significantly increase customer traffic, allowing the applicant to meet the required parking ratio with 806 stalls provided, exceeding the 793 stalls mandated.

City staff have recommended the Planning Commission approve the rezone application, citing that the project aligns with the Loma Vista specific plan and master plan, while also promising to create additional job opportunities and enhance the variety of goods and services available in the area.