Council approves rezoning at 3410 W. Center Street after adding 50-foot river setback

The Provo City Council voted to amend the zone map for 3410 West Center Street, changing the property from A-1/10 (agricultural) to the Airport Industrial zone and approving a development agreement on April 8. The council approved a substitute motion that added a 50-foot buffer from the river top-of-bank where no structures or parking stalls will be allowed; the substitute passed 5–1 with Councilor George Hanley voting no and Councilor Travis Hoban excused.

Planning supervisor Aaron Ardmore told the council the rezoning aligns with the city’s general plan and explained the development agreement includes a continuous public-access trail on the south side of the Provo River and a requirement to plant about 15 trees per acre — approximately 570 trees for the full site if developed to the concept plan. Developers said the trees will be supplemental to the existing vegetation and that arborists will recommend which trees to preserve.

Developer Eric Jurgensen described a three-building concept aimed at providing industrial and employment uses. He said the project will comply with applicable environmental, FEMA and airport-related regulations and that a more detailed project plan would be required before permits.

Residents voiced a mix of support and concern during a lengthy public-comment period. Young people and parents emphasized potential air quality and safety impacts from truck traffic and noise near schools and trails; Salvatore Calora urged large river setbacks and cautioned against losing mature riparian trees. Conversely, on-site landowners and other supporters said the project will create employment, improve a currently neglected riverbank area and deliver trail access that is now missing on the river’s south side.

The city forester, Chaz Addis, told councilors that much of the existing vegetation on the south riverbank is nonnative and in poor condition; he identified roughly five larger healthy trees that might be preserved but recommended removal of many declining or invasive specimens to allow a coordinated replanting plan. Councilors pressed staff and the developer on timing and responsibility for trailhead improvements, restrooms and parking; Lennar representatives said they would grade and provide connections and work with the city on final construction and transfer timing.

Councilor Katrice McKay moved the amendment to require a 50-foot buffer from the river top-of-bank with no structures or parking stalls; that amendment was added to the development agreement and carried 5–1. With that change, the rezoning passed and the project will proceed to project-plan review and permitting.