Planning commission approves Lava Island special land use at 555 Century Drive with pedestrian‑safety condition

The City of Walker Planning Commission approved a special land‑use permit July 1 to allow Lava Island, an indoor family entertainment facility, to occupy a tenant space at 555 Century Drive NW in the Greenridge shopping area, subject to conditions including additional pedestrian striping in front of the building.

Planning Director Paula Priebe said the commercial recreation use is a good fit for the site’s CPUD zoning and recommended a striped crosswalk at the proposed entrance because primary users will be families and children. “I would recommend…that the crosswalk is striped to ensure safe pedestrian access to the facility, especially when the primary users are families and children,” Paula said.

An applicant representing Lava Island, who identified himself as the owner of the Lava Island business, described the operation as an indoor, family‑oriented active‑play facility that targets roughly ages 2–12/14 and emphasizes contained play over large trampoline features. The owner said the group operates multiple locations out of Colorado and that the building’s 12–14 foot ceilings make the space attractive for their model: “Our primary business really centers around contained play,” he said.

Commissioners asked about competition in the area and operating details. The applicant said Lava Island differentiates itself by targeting younger children and offering a light, bright environment, and that they have discussed adding stop signs, zebra striping at the entrance and additional handicap spaces with the landlord. On food service, the applicant described a counter and kitchen offering pizzas, burgers and other family‑style items; typical hours were given as generally 9 a.m.–9 p.m. Sunday–Thursday and 9 a.m.–10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, subject to adjustment after opening.

A motion to approve the special land use (Case 26‑010555) carried after the commission adopted findings that the use would not be detrimental to the public, is compatible with the zoning district and will not significantly impair surrounding properties, and by imposing the striping condition addressed staff safety concerns. Staff will follow up with the applicant on site documentation and any required site plan work.

Case number: 26‑010555. Condition of approval: add additional striping in front of the building to allow safe pedestrian access between lot and tenant entrance.