Lawrence city commissioners debated Wednesday whether a proposed policy could allow too much retail development on the city’s west side.

Proposed revisions to the commercial chapter of Horizon 2020 would allow 500,000 square feet of retail space at Sixth Street and the South Lawrence Trafficway — plus an additional 380,000 square feet at Sixth and Wakarusa Drive.

Horizon 2020 is the city-county comprehensive plan.

Commissioner David Schauner said that much space along Sixth Street might create a shopping area similar to South Iowa Street.

“Aren’t we in fact creating another regional shopping area if we create that kind of increased square footage at Sixth and the SLT?” he asked.

City planner Bryan Dyer said Sixth Street would differ from South Iowa Street, because commercial development would be limited to the two intersections instead of extending all the way down the street. And Planning Commissioner Sue Pine said other new requirements would prevent such “strip” development.

“I think there’s a big difference,” Commissioner Sue Hack said. “It’s not going to be stores all the way down.”

Commissioners must decide whether they will approve the proposal or send it back to the Lawrence-Douglas County Planning Commission for revisions. The issue is tentatively scheduled for discussion at the City Commission’s July 22 meeting.