Title
Conduct a public hearing and consider adopting Ordinance No. 3901 for a zoning amendment for a mixed-use development on approximately 10.18 acres located at 1920 LBJ Freeway; and take appropriate action.
Body
REQUESTOR:
Economic Development, Tourism, and Planning Department
BACKGROUND:
The applicant, Chris Zielke, Centurion American, requests to amend Planned Development District No. 99 (PD-99) for a mixed-use development known as “Mercer Boardwalk.” The original development plan for this site included five restaurant and retail buildings with associated parking and landscaping improvements. To date, three of these buildings have been constructed. The developer now proposes modifications for phase two of the development, which include a new pickleball entertainment complex and freestanding signage.
DISCUSSION:
The subject site is located within the “Urban Commerce” subdistrict of PD-99, which allows restaurant, retail, and indoor commercial amusement uses by right. If approved, this request would add outdoor commercial amusement as an allowed accessory use. The pickleball development is planned for the western half of the site, replacing Buildings 1 and 2 on the previously approved detailed site plan (Resolution No. 2021-004). Instead, a single two-story building is proposed with an indoor restaurant, bar, and pro shop in combination with approximately 15 outdoor courts and multiple lawn areas.
Additionally, the applicant requests to install an approximately 50-foot-tall double-faced LED sign adjacent to LBJ Freeway (IH-635) to enhance visibility and promote businesses within the Mercer Boardwalk development. This signage would replace the 36-foot-tall multi-tenant pylon sign previously approved for this location. Animated or electronic signage is currently prohibited within PD-99, and this proposal exceeds the maximum dimensions allowed for freestanding signs.
FISCAL IMPACT:
No Financial Impact
DISTRICT:
District 3
RECOMMENDATION:
On December 9, 2024, the Planning & Zoning Commission unanimously recommended approval of this request with the following modifications:
• That the proposed electronic sign be equipped with an automatic dimming feature.
• That communications related to City of Farmers Branch events be permitted on the sign.
POSSIBLE COUNCIL ACTION:
1. I move to approve Ordinance No. 3901 as presented.
2. I move to approve Ordinance No. 3901 with modifications.
3. I move to table the issue for further study or take no action.
4. I move to deny Ordinance No. 3901.
ATTACHMENT(S):
1. Information Memorandum
2. Ordinance No. 3901
3. Additional Documents
4. Presentation