Planning staff reports Legion Square progress and new tenant at former Panera site

Planning staff updated the Farmington Planning Commission on several active projects during the Aug. 10 meeting, reporting that work at Legion Square has moved into roadway construction while the Hillside towns project remains slower to advance. Staff also said the former Panera site has a new tenant, identified during the meeting as New York Bagels and Bowls; staff noted that the owner previously had an approved drive-through and might return to the commission if they pursue that option again.

On signage enforcement, staff reported ongoing work under the city’s sign-amortization clause: as tenants change, nonconforming pole and poll signs are being taken down and the city is pursuing compliance. Staff said one poll sign had been removed recently and that sign conformity will continue to be handled as businesses renovate or change ownership.

The staff presenter (speaker 6) described the market for housing and commercial investment as healthy and suggested many builders are conscientious about inspections and permitting. "They've dotted their i's and crossed their t's," staff said of a new tenant that has completed health-department requirements. The commission received the updates and did not take formal action on these items at the meeting.