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Planning commission recommends approval for Comerica Bank façade and parking reconfiguration
Summary
The commission voted unanimously to forward a recommendation to city council approving a remodel of the Comerica Bank building at 17111 Laurel Park Drive North that reduces pavement, adds detention basins and updates the façade, with conditions on landscaping, lighting, signage and phragmite control.
The Livonia City Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend city council approval of a site plan to renovate the Comerica Bank building at 17111 Laurel Park Drive North and reconfigure its parking.
The proposal keeps the existing building envelope but updates the façade, reduces impervious surface by replacing paved areas with two dry‑bottom detention ponds, relocates the ATM into the drive‑thru, and adds a masonry refuse enclosure and updated landscaping. Planning staff and city departments reviewed the plans and recommended conditions to ensure drainage, landscaping maintenance and lighting controls.
Mr. Canty described the project and the site context, noting the parcel is zoned C4 and adjacent to hotels and restaurant uses. Architect Luke Woods of Cityscape Architects said the goal was “reducing the paving and parking spaces,” and that the renovation will bring the exterior to Comerica brand standards while adding two detention ponds and new landscaping.
The engineering division had no objection but requested submittal of engineering drawings and stormwater calculations before permits. The fire bureau required that emergency vehicle access be maintained and that landscaping not interfere with hydrants or lanes; a detailed plan review was promised when the official plan set is submitted. Police traffic, inspections and the treasurer reported no objections and that taxes are paid.
The commission’s approving resolution included conditions: adherence to the submitted landscape and exterior elevation plans, double‑striped parking dimensions, sodding of disturbed lawn areas, underground irrigation for planted areas, a refuse enclosure built of complementary materials, shielded exterior lighting not to exceed 20 feet in height, prohibition on exposed LED light bands and neon, and a requirement to submit an ongoing phragmite control program to the inspection department prior to construction of the retention basin.
Commissioner Ventura moved approval and Commissioner DeNaro supported. Roll call was Ventura: aye; DeNaro: aye; Droz: aye; Long: aye; Chair Wilshaw: aye. The commission will forward the approving recommendation to city council.
