Panel Backs Retail Complex at Former Site of Lawry’s

The city’s Planning Commission on Thursday recommended approval of a $30-million retail and restaurant complex to be built at the site where the landmark Lawry’s restaurant once operated.

The panel’s decision came after developer Neil Nadler agreed to preserve the existing gardens and consider changes to the project to save the famed restaurant, rather than demolish it as planned.

Some residents objected to the destruction of the building, a longtime popular eating spot, and state Sen. Richard Polanco floated an alternative proposal of using the site as a visual arts academy.

If Nadler’s project is approved by the City Council, he will anchor the 17-acre site on West Avenue 26 with a Home Depot store and several restaurants, including 182,000 square feet of retail space.