Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Commercial Redevelopment topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Chick‑fil‑A proposes 360‑square‑foot addition and expanded canopies at Los Cerritos Center
Summary
Chick‑fil‑A presented a minor precise plan for interior and exterior improvements at its Los Cerritos Center restaurant, including a 360 sq ft addition, new and expanded drive‑through canopies with heaters and fans, and a reoriented trash enclosure; the item was informational and will be administratively reviewed.
Chick‑fil‑A sought input from the commission on a minor precise plan to renovate its existing restaurant at 18605 Gridley Road inside the Los Cerritos Center.
Senior Planner Jeremy Lowe told the commission the project includes a 360‑square‑foot addition to house freezer and storage space, expansion of an existing drive‑through canopy, construction of a new freestanding drive‑through canopy, reorientation of the trash enclosure, and minor interior changes. Lowe said roof‑mounted equipment will sit at least six inches below the existing parapet or screening, and the proposed addition will use limestone veneer, sandstone wainscot and beige stucco to match existing materials.
The applicant provided perspective renderings and a materials-and-colors board. Lowe said the new and extended canopies will include fans and heaters for employees working the drive‑through service lanes and that staff has determined the project is categorically exempt from CEQA. He added the project is processed as an administrative minor precise plan because of its limited scope but was referred to the commission for informational review because of its prominent mall location. A Chick‑fil‑A representative and the project civil engineer were in the audience.
Commissioners asked operational questions. Commissioner Au asked whether the trash enclosure would be relocated or reoriented; staff clarified it will be reoriented (facing changed) and that there is no new environmental impact. Au also asked whether the canopy roof could include solar panels; staff said the canopy material is a standard membrane and deferred the solar question to the project team. Lowe said the applicant indicated the drive‑through lane will need to close during construction.
Vice Chair Reyes and Commissioner Chauhan commented in support of the update, citing the company’s local presence and employment of young workers. Commissioners noted signage changes require a separate administrative sign permit and are not part of the minor precise plan submittal.
Why it matters: The remodel is presented as a limited, site‑specific improvement at an existing restaurant within a major regional shopping center; staff will complete the administrative review and building‑permit process. No public speakers addressed the item during the meeting.
