Council approves first reading of Greenbrier PUD amendment to allow retail, hospitality uses at Shamrock West Lot 2

On a 7-0 vote, Loveland City Council approved on first reading an ordinance amending the Greenbrier PUD zoning document for Lot 2 in the Shamrock West Fourth Subdivision to expand allowed uses beyond office to include retail, restaurants, medical and hospitality uses.

The request — characterized by staff as a major amendment to a planned unit development — would allow a broader table of uses that align with the city’s comprehensive plan designation for the site as a neighborhood activity center. City planner Hubel told council the expansion is intended to help the Shamrock commercial center operate as a neighborhood hub where residents can reach daily goods and services on foot or by bike.

The one-acre lot sits southwest of West 40th Street and Taft Avenue and is one of three remaining vacant parcels in the commercial center. Applicant Philip Schumann and his team said current market conditions have reduced demand for the kind of two-story professional office building originally envisioned; the proposal reduces the building footprint and adds retail and service uses that, the applicant said, would generate sales tax revenue and better serve nearby residents.

Staff and the planning commission recommended approval after public outreach. Planning staff identified 12 public comments; nearby townhome owners raised concerns about potential light, landscaping and trash-enclosure visibility. The applicant and staff said those site concerns would be addressed during the subsequent minor amendment, site development plan and construction-review processes. Staff confirmed utilities and transportation infrastructure can serve the proposed uses.

The council’s first-reading approval moves the ordinance to second reading and final action at a subsequent meeting; staff noted the second reading is scheduled for Aug. 5.