The Abilene Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of zoning case Z202536, a request to change about 5.23 acres at 3329 Maple Street from agricultural open to heavy commercial.

Adam Holland, planner for the city of Abilene, presented the staff report and said the parcel abuts existing heavy commercial and light industrial uses. He said staff found the request consistent with the comprehensive plan and the Land Development Code and recommended approval.

A nearby property owner, Eric Chamberlain, who owns property to the south, spoke in favor but urged that access be improved. Chamberlain described a narrow, 20‑foot driveway and said the location experiences congestion and safety concerns with vehicles turning into existing industrial sites. He asked that the street be widened and a formal public roadway built because emergency responders and callers have experienced address confusion in the area.

Tal (agent for the owner) said the tract will proceed through platting and site‑plan review and that development must meet city standards including access, drainage and site improvements. He said a 60‑foot access finger had been provided to Maple Street to allow future public road construction if needed, but that the parcel is not currently required by the thoroughfare plan to have a public street.

Commissioners voted to recommend approval. Staff and the developer were urged to coordinate with property owners and city departments on access, addressing Chamberlain’s concerns about emergency access and street identification.