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retail environment, would be a benefit. He noted that the office users looked for amenities such as food service, dry cleaners, and other services that would capture trips in such a way that additional trips would not be generated during the noon hour. He stated that he believed this project interfaced with the open space better than the previous project. He displayed a slide presentation that showed the architectural details of the proposed project. He noted that the materials and colors were very warm and rich, including stone, wood, exterior plaster, and larger glass elements that would make the entry elements very open. He added that the interior spaces would be light and airy. He noted that Safeway wished to make this their flagship store. He noted that over 36 percent of the site would be landscaped, with a number of outdoor dining and pedestrian areas. Commissioner O'Connor inquired why the brick elements were not used instead of stone. He stated that the brick elements would tie the two projects closer together, as opposed to being so different in look Mr. Rodriguez replied that they had both materials and that he believed the stone and brick worked well together. He noted that if the Commission believed that one material would be better, he would entertain that idea. He added that he liked the idea of adding both brick and stone and that they were both integrated into the retail center and the office building because it was a very large site. He noted that the Downtown area had a large variety of finishes. He stated that they proposed both materials to address the issues of scale. He expressed concern that using only one material may diminish the integrity of the design since it was so large. Commissioner O'Connor noted that he had not noticed both materials and had observed a lot of stone in the office and a lot of brick in the retail. Commissioner Narum inquired whether she would see a lot of parking if she were to look from the open space south of the project toward the project. Mr. Rodriguez replied that she would not and that they changed the parking scheme in order to screen the parking. He noted that the walkway paths in the previous parking area would be heavily landscaped, acting as a transition buffer. He noted that there was a lot of green as compared to the previous project and that there would be some glimpses of asphalt and cars. He noted that there must be adequate parking and that by increasing the landscaping buffer, the screening would be increased. Commissioner Olson inquired whether a representative from Safeway was present. Mr. Trobbe replied that they were originally scheduled for April and that the Safeway representatives had planned to attend at that time. He noted that they had a conflict for this hearing but would attend in the future. Commissioner Olson inquired about the fuel station and noted that every new Safeway he had seen recently had a fuel station. He believed that was a key part of their retail equation in order for the project to be economically viable. He noted that grocery stores were extremely low-margin businesses and that it would make sense for them to sell fuel. He noted that he was a bit put off when he received the package and saw the massing of the buildings. He noted that the color renderings showing the barriers were well done. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, May 28, 2008 Page 6 of 17