By Richard Smith
Independent Newsmedia

At its May 20 meeting, the Surprise Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously recommended approval on a pair of site plans on the city’s southeastern industrial area.

One project is speculative at this point, with no tenants attached. But the other is a truss manufacturing facility for Pennsylvania-based 84 Lumber.

During the commission meeting, Surprise planner Hobart Wingard said the planned area development at the southwest corner of Dysart and Waddell roads was originally approved in 2003. He said the 20-acre site was always set aside for 84 Lumber.

“This is a triangular site that is 20 undeveloped acres,” “The rail is along the northeast edge of the facility and the facility will have a spur,” Mr. Wingard said.

Phase 1 is in the middle of the property and will include the truss manufacturing plant, front off ice and a canopy. Mr. Wingard said in recent proposals, 84 Lumber has improved the attractiveness of its architecture.

An 84 Lumber representative said the facility would start with about 60 employees and working hours of 7a.m. to 6 p.m.

The entrance sign to the Surprise Civic Center (Independent Newsmedia file)

Commissioner Eric Cultum said his only concern with this project is its look relative to its location at an eastern gateway to the city from El Mirage.

“I look at areas like this as unique components to eastwest and north-south entrances for our city. I ask myself what will we have at these four or five entrances to our city? What will be the first image of our city. I don’t think this project is a negative at all, I think having them in this city is an incredible thing,” Mr. Cultum said. “The intersection is a bit concerning and this is just a start of projects coming to our city using the railroad tracks.”