Commissioners Criticize South Anchor Design, Raise Parking and Streetscape Concerns

Gilbert Redevelopment Commission members on June 10 reviewed plans for the South Anchor mixed-use project at the northwest corner of Gilbert and Elliott roads and voiced strong concerns about the design, visibility of a proposed parking structure and the project’s pedestrian character.

The study-session presentation by staff member Kristen described the site as roughly 2.8 acres in the Heritage District, with a development agreement that requires at least 14,600 square feet of active commercial use along Gilbert and Elliott roads, 175 to 203 residential units, and a minimum of 287 parking stalls plus 45 additional public parking spaces. Kristen said the applicant has proposed 367 total parking spaces, applied for a reduction of 10 spaces for the commercial portion, and has requested a conditional use permit to allow some ground-floor residential units on Ash Street, the alley and internal site locations.

The project as presented includes a two-story commercial building at the Gilbert/Elliott corner, a four-story residential building wrapping a parking structure, and a Paseo-style walkway with sidewalk seating…