By Janet Sellers
At the Monument Planning Commission meeting on Dec. 11, key land use decisions were made, including approval of the final Planned Unit Development (PUD) for a Panda Express restaurant and progress on the Falcon Commerce Center development.
Panda Express
Planned for Lot 5A of Monument Marketplace North, the new Panda Express would feature a drive-thru, landscaping, parking, and pedestrian access. While the commissioners expressed concerns about the building’s design, particularly its blank wall facing Jackson Creek Parkway, no public objections were raised, and the project was recommended for approval pending design refinements.
Falcon Commerce Center
The Falcon Commerce Center development was also reviewed, focusing on its environmental and infrastructure impacts. The development includes industrial warehouses and distribution facilities with substantial investments in water, sewer, and road infrastructure. The commissioners discussed efforts to address concerns from the Air Force Academy about Jackson Creek’s downstream conditions, including the installation of a buried wall to prevent erosion. The project’s shift from less restrictive PID zoning to a more controlled PUD ensures it aligns with the town’s comprehensive plan.
While the development has made significant strides, commissioners raised concerns about truck parking, traffic impacts, and the facility’s visual compatibility with the community. They also sought assurances about hazardous material handling and fire safety. No public comments were submitted during the hearings, and the project is now awaiting Town Council approval.
In addition to these discussions, the commission approved the sketch plan for the Woodmoor Placer Replat B, a commercial subdivision along Jackson Creek Parkway. This development, aimed at accommodating growing community needs, includes six lots and will focus on shared access roads, pedestrian pathways, and utility easements.
The commission’s ongoing dialogue with developers aims to balance growth with sustainability and community needs. As 2024 concluded, the Planning Commission was preparing for a busy January, which will include discussions on impact fees and leadership appointments. The meeting wrapped up with holiday well-wishes and appreciation for the year’s work.
**********
The Planning Commission usually meets on the second Wednesday of each month. It will revisit the discussion on the Jackson Creek North plat and Panda Express at the next meeting on Jan. 8. For further information on Planning Commission meetings, please visit www.townofmonument.org/263/planning-commission-board-of-adjustment or contact 719-884-8028.
Janet Sellers can be reached at JanetSellers@ocn.me.
Other Monument Planning Commission articles
- Monument Planning Commission, Jan. 14 – Monument officials attend infrastructure workshop (2/4/2026)
- Monument Planning Commission, Dec. 10 – Commissioners recommend approval of 2026 zoning map, show appreciation for outgoing members (1/1/2026)
- Monument Planning Commission, Nov. 13 – Commission recommends controversial 158-home Conexus development and Commercial PUD (12/4/2025)
- Monument Planning Commission, Oct. 8 – Commission recommends approval of Legacy at Jackson Landing project (10/30/2025)
- Monument Planning Commission, Sept. 10 – September meeting cancelled (10/2/2025)
- Monument Planning Commission, Aug. 13 – Planning Commission seeks community input on future development (9/4/2025)
- Monument Planning Commission, July 9 – Commission welcomes new leaders, reviews major development amendment and vision for Monument’s future (8/1/2025)
- Monument Planning Commission, June 11 – June meeting cancelled (7/3/2025)
- Monument Planning Commission, May 14 – Commission recommends approval of 30-acre commercial development (6/7/2025)
- Monument Planning Commission, April 9 – Two recommendations for approval; high school students offered seat at the table (5/3/2025)