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Planning staff reports: Trader Joe’s, Mission Barbecue permits; RC Willey site not planned for apartments, fence and community projects discussed
Summary
At the Feb. 25 Riverdale Planning Commission meeting staff reported building permits issued for Trader Joe’s and upcoming permit for Mission Barbecue, clarified RC Willey property is not planned for apartments, and commissioners discussed vendor interest at Speedway, a fence between Walmart and Hobby Lobby, and a proposed flag/ outdoor classroom.
Riverdale City planning staff and commissioners used the Feb. 25 meeting to share development updates and community items.
City planning staff reported they had issued a building permit for Trader Joe’s and that Mission Barbecue has begun exterior work at a site previously fenced; staff said the restaurant is undergoing interior and fairly extensive exterior remodel and the city expects to issue its permit soon. Staff noted Mission Barbecue had been advertising for employees as construction progressed.
Commissioners asked about interest from potential buyers for other retail properties. Staff said they had not received a formal submission from Speedway but confirmed “there is some interest” in the property; a commissioner joked about other quick-mart brands and noted Mavericks have appeared in nearby jurisdictions.
Commissioner Nye asked whether the RC Willey (large retail) site would become apartments; staff read directly from the city newsletter to clarify: “Is the old RC Willey area going to become apartments? No. There is no plan to change the use of that area from commercial to residential.” Staff added that renewed tenant interest had been spurred by the Trader Joe’s announcement and the city was working to find a new tenant for the large building.
Commissioners discussed a longstanding fence between Walmart and Hobby Lobby. Staff explained the fence is a remnant of a previous car-dealership lot and remains because the fence owner will remove it only if Walmart commits to better shopping-cart management. Staff said the property between Walmart and Hobby Lobby is actively being pursued for development; if it is developed, the fence would be removed as part of that project.
Separately, a commissioner said they had applied for a ramp grant tied to a community “Old Glory Days” celebration and described plans to create an outdoor classroom with seating and a larger community flag in the park; grant decisions were expected Friday.
Staff also invited the commission to a possible visioning/workshop session to map a 20-year plan for Riverdale Road and other city corridors, suggesting a workshop-style meeting to sketch future scenarios and follow-up strategic meetings with the city council. Commissioners suggested a possible March workshop and discussed whether to invite the public to watch or participate in future outreach events.
No formal actions were taken on these updates; the commission adjourned at the end of the meeting.
