PC 04/10/96 - Laserfiche WebLink

. . . Commissioner Wright feels the proposed development uses are no more traffic-intensive than are the uses across Hopyard. His concern lies more in the architectural design of the service station and the fast food restaurant. He feels the buildings should be designed more in line with the BofA building and the landscaping will soften the looks of the area. Commissioner Wright is in favor of the project and believes all other concerns have been addressed by the applicant. He does not believe another hotel is needed in this area. Commissioner Wright feels this project should go back to staff for them to draft conditions of approval. Commissioner Hovingh disagrees with Commissioner Wright, feeling there are too many fast food restaurants and gas stations in the area. He wants to preserve the initial PUD, and believes there is no compelling reason to change the existing PUD. He does not think the buildings complement the Signature Center buildings; and doesn't think the circulation is safe. Therefore, he supports staff's recommendation for denial of this application. However, if there is favorable support by the rest of the Commission, and if there is a convenience store, Commissioner Hovingh would like to see a prohibition of the sale of liquor and make the north driveway as an in-only access point, thereby discouraging people from making right turns onto Hopyard, crossing all lanes, to make a left or U-turn movement. Mr. Beougher advised that there was once a third gas station at this intersection, and Comoy's Flowers is now at this location. NPID funds were granted for the purchase of that property and demolition of the service station. Commissioner McGuirk stated he focused his review on the northern part of the subject property and feels it blends in with the surrounding buildings. He is not opposed to the uses, feeling they provide services for on-off freeway traffic. He does not feel traffic concerns are a major issue and feels the berming along Hopyard will mitigate the view of the necessary paving in this area. Commissioner McGuirk would also like to see the proposed restaurant owners understand and work with the City and the architectural guidelines. He feels the underground gas tank location should be on the southern side of the station away from the restaurant locations. He appreciates the spacing between the buildings which minimizes the massing effect. He also feels the monument signs are located too close together. Commissioner McGuirk also commented that he was disappointed that there were no conditions of approval for the application. He supports the project as it has been improved by direction of the Commissioners. Commissioner Dove stated that given the proximity to the large office buildings, he is surprised that the office building is opposed to project, feeling it would be a convenience to their tenants. He is in support of the project. Chairman Lutz feels a line must be drawn between freeway service and office building use. He will support the staff's recommendation for denial and maintain the original PUD. PIaJmIng Commission Minutes Page 9 April 10, 1996