The discussion warranted a full house during the East Lansing Planning Commission meeting Tuesday night. The commission postponed voting on the plan after several hours of discussion.

Caddis Development Group, LLC president Kevin McGraw expressed his sadness regarding the grocery store’s closure, but said plans are moving forward.

“It’s not about Goodrich’s — we couldn’t save them,” McGraw said. “We tried since last summer to keep them there, but their lease is up.”

A new company plans to move into the old building after remodeling. McGraw detailed his plans to build two buildings, one four stories and the other five stories.

The first floor of both buildings will be zoned for retail, while the upper stories will be a mix of office and residential space. There also are plans for underground parking for the complex.

As plans currently stand, Wendy’s, Comcast and Woody’s Oasis will remain in the complex.

McGraw said the new company intends to hire as many former Goodrich’s employees to prevent job loss and make use of their experience.

Bruce Brown, Goodrich’s attorney, said the store is an anchor to the community.

“We have every intention of staying in business, but we can’t meet the terms,” Brown said. “Goodrich’s might be done. The owner is saying it is.”

Many East Lansing residents expressed concern about the redevelopment plans for the complex. Some worried only national chains or student apartments would move into the area.

Jim Dewitt, president of the Red Cedar Community Association, expressed his opposition to the proposal, saying student apartments wouldn’t be compatible with existing residential areas.