Planning commission approves Chase Bank site plan amendment, requires Sears Street sidewalk

The Planning, Programming and Zoning Commission approved a site plan amendment May 13 to allow Chase Bank to convert a former restaurant at 2009 Crossroads Boulevard into a 4,086-square-foot banking facility with a 31.2-square-foot addition. Staff recommended approval and the commission adopted conditions including installation of a sidewalk along Sears Street, required easements if sidewalks encroach on private property, and that the final site plan meet applicable city codes.

The action matters because the site is in the S-1 Shopping Center District and the change of use triggers updated building and fire-code requirements. Tamala, identified in the meeting as planning staff, told the commission the property has been zoned S-1 since 1969 and "would not appear to have a negative impact on the area." She noted the Complete Streets Advisory Committee recommended sidewalks on Sears Street and Crossroads Boulevard and that the fire department requires new occupancy to meet current IFC/IBC codes.

During public comment, Dave Bolton questioned requiring sidewalks where none currently exist, calling it "a sidewalk to nowhere" given limited right-of-way and utilities. Jamie Knudson, City Engineer, said his office believes a sidewalk can be constructed along Sears Street but that Crossroads Boulevard is likely not feasible now because of a detention basin and existing utilities: "I just don't think that's feasible at this time, but we do think they can get the sidewalk along Sears Street." Commissioner Dunant noted the sidewalk would also improve accessibility, saying it "would allow for accessibility into the bank."

Applicant Cody Weaver of Civil Engineering Consultants said the project will remodel the building and address landscaping and drainage and that he and the design team will work with staff to resolve sidewalk and drainage details: "I think the staff report covers this extremely well." The engineering department flagged drainage as an outstanding technical issue to be resolved with project engineers prior to permit approval.

The commission's approval included the staff-recommended conditions: sidewalk installation along Sears Street (with easements if required), compliance with parking, landscaping, drainage and other city codes, and addressing fire and building permit requirements. The decision does not remove requirements for building-permit review or technical approvals; engineering must still sign off on a drainage plan and the building must meet current codes.

Commissioners closed the public hearing before taking the formal vote. The commission recorded the motion as approved. Follow-up items include final engineering signoffs and any easement filings if sidewalks encroach on private property.