In a recent government meeting, officials discussed a proposed general plan amendment and zoning change for a site located along Higley Road, within the Gabriella Pointe Commerce Center. The site, spanning 13.5 acres, is currently designated as regional commercial and is set to be changed to general commercial, with a zoning shift to mixed-use large. This change aims to facilitate a blend of commercial and multifamily residential uses.

The development plan includes two one-story commercial retail pads at the front and a multifamily residential area at the back. However, the project is still in its first review phase, and officials noted that further details are needed regarding the commercial space's square footage, the number of residential units, and the height of the buildings.

Access to the site will be provided via Higley Road and Olona Drive, with existing infrastructure already in place. The proposed layout includes pedestrian connections between commercial and residential areas, although staff expressed concerns about the current level of integration between these uses. They emphasized the need for improved horizontal integration to avoid the appearance of two separate projects.

Additionally, officials highlighted the importance of distributing commercial uses throughout the site, rather than concentrating them in one area. They urged the applicant to consider incorporating retail spaces on the ground floors of the apartment buildings and along Olona Drive to enhance accessibility and integration.

The meeting underscored the ongoing evaluation of the project, with staff committed to working closely with the applicant to address these concerns and ensure a cohesive development that meets community needs.