With the first quarter of the new year in the books, the Cerritos Planning Commission is nearly on pace to match its 2011 total number of approved projects.
During the commission’s last meeting in the City Hall Council Chambers, city planning manager Robert A. Lopez gave an informational report on projects approved by the body since 2009.
Lopez’s presentation denoted that four projects have been approved this year, though none obtained the necessary permits at press time.
In addition to the number of projects approved, Lopez provided land use graphs. Land use is separated into five categories: commercial, residential, institutional, wireless and industrial.
For 2012, two commercial projects, one residential and an institutional project have been approved.
During 2011, the commission approved 26 projects. Three of the projects have been completed, 12 are under construction, and 11 others have been approved, but lack a permit.
In addition to providing a broad overview, Lopez gave an update on four specific projects.
- at 12061 Del Amo Blvd. Lopez displayed an art rendering of the church’s expanded classroom and multi-purpose building. Approved in 2009, the church is classified as an institutional project.
- PetSmart at 12741 Towne Center Drive. The space is currently undergoing interior renovation, which will include the installation of sound-proofed walls to muffle dog barking, said Lopez. Lopez said the store may open by year’s end.
- Chevron gas station, corner of Bloomfield Avenue and Artesia. “The station still (needs) some finishing touches, including signage,” said Lopez. “We’re hoping that the station will open to the general public in the next few months.” The station is equipped with solar panels, which are already visible.
- , South Street and Gridley Road. Lopez said the city issued a demolition permit for the strip mall earlier this year after the property had more than 10 of its businesses burn down in an . The remaining burned-out structure was demolished in mid March, Lopez said. He also indicated that city staff met with the property’s owner, discussing construction of a new building and “redesigning the exterior façade of the entire shopping center to give it a more contemporary look.”
The next Cerritos Planning Commission meeting will be held on Wednesday, April 4 at 7 p.m. in the council chambers.
