The Abilene Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of an amendment to Planned Development District (PDD) 136 at 1699 South First Street to allow closure of selected west‑side windows and to permit a book drop on the east side of the historic Abilene High/Lincoln campus as part of an ongoing redevelopment that will house a new public library, an event center and a science center.

Kira Velois, planner for the city of Abilene, said staff sent 200‑foot notices and received one objection (2.9 percent of notices). Jane Beard, president of Abilene Heritage Square and representative for the property owner, described the site’s history and the planned uses and said the amendments are limited to window closures on the west side and a book‑return location on the east side.

Pat Almaguerre, owner of First Impressions Hair Salon across the street, opposed the change citing ongoing construction traffic and historic pick‑up congestion in the block; she said she was concerned parking could be taken by the redevelopment and expressed continued opposition to uses that she said might increase curbside congestion. Jane Beard said the project will provide more parking than the city requires, including parking on the west side and additional parking near the proposed book drop so deliveries would not stack on the street.

Commissioners voted to recommend approval; the motion was moved and seconded and carried with all commissioners recorded saying yes. Staff noted the amendment was limited in scope and that broader questions about parking and street impacts will be addressed as the project proceeds through site development and permitting.