In a recent Planning and Zoning Commission meeting held on September 4, 2025, in Surprise, Arizona, significant discussions centered around a proposed commercial and multifamily development at the intersection of 163rd Avenue and Pat Tillman Boulevard. The site, located within the Assante Planned Area Development (PAD), is currently zoned for both residential (R-3) and commercial (C-2) uses.

The applicant presented a Comprehensive Sign Plan (CSP) aimed at establishing design and construction standards for signage across the Assante Trails commercial development and the Tavalo multifamily project. Key elements of the proposal included requests for deviations from the Land Development Ordinance (LDO) regarding entry monument signs and the introduction of various types of signage, including major and minor monument signs, drive-thru signs, and directional signage.

The proposed signage adheres to LDO standards concerning height, area, and separation, with additional requirements for color and construction methods to ensure consistency throughout the site. Notably, the plan includes four major monument signs along 163rd Avenue and Pat Tillman Boulevard, all of which comply with existing regulations. The applicant also seeks a minor increase in sign area for smaller monument signs at the entrances to the Tavalo property.

A neighborhood meeting held on June 23, 2025, attracted limited attendance, with only two participants expressing concerns about adequate directional signage. The applicant addressed these concerns during the meeting, leading to staff recommendations for the Planning and Zoning Commission to endorse the proposal to the City Council, contingent upon specific stipulations.

Commission members expressed support for the project, highlighting its alignment with community standards and the positive impact it could have on the neighborhood's aesthetic. The meeting concluded without further questions, indicating a consensus on the proposal's merits.

As Surprise continues to grow, developments like the Assante Trails and Tavalo projects are crucial in addressing the increasing demand for housing and commercial spaces, while also enhancing the visual landscape of the community. The next steps will involve the City Council's review of the commission's recommendations, which could pave the way for the project's advancement.