Small-business owners warn Speer Boulevard redevelopment could remove parking, block awning repairs

Bonnie Grama Martz, introduced by the moderator, asked council to preserve access and storefront visibility for Gato's Bakery at 1160 Speer Boulevard amid a community redevelopment plan. Martz said one closure design would block access needed for customers and for a bus that serves residents at 420 West 12th Avenue, and she requested permits for two awnings and a street-facing sign.

"They are important to our community. They're the only bakery within a 2.5 mile radius of the Golden Triangle," Martz said, arguing that the bakery brings both foot traffic and visitors from across the metro area.

Charles Gilac later emphasized neighborhood concerns that the plan to expand green space at 12th and Speer would eliminate "at least 5 parking spaces and possibly 7" that serve Gato's and four or five other small businesses along Speer. He said the bakery's iconic awning — in place for about 26 years — was recently removed after wind damage and that city staff informed the owner it could not be reinstalled because no permit was on record.

"It seems like it's going to hinder not only Gato bakery, but possibly 4 or 5 other small businesses on Speer Boulevard," Gilac said, urging council members to consider ways to preserve parking and visibility for local businesses.

Neither council members nor staff responded during the public comment period. Speakers asked for permitting flexibility, consistent awning design along the block, and consideration of bus access and accessibility for residents with disabilities at nearby apartment buildings.

Next steps: the public comment session closed with an invitation to submit written comments or sign up for the next session; speakers seeking relief should follow up with the city's permitting and planning offices.