FROM:
Planning Department
TITLE:
Title
Master Case No. 24-036: Design Review (DRP) No. 24-0020 - A request for site and architectural approval for a five-story mixed use building with associated on and off site improvements on approximately 0.5-acres at 8466, 8470, and 8486 Sierra Avenue, pursuant to a Categorical Exemption in accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15332.
End
RECOMMENDATION:
Based on the information contained in this staff report and subject to the attached Findings and Conditions of Approval, staff recommends that the Planning Commission adopt Resolution PC No. 2024-____; and,
1. Determine that the project is categorically exempt pursuant to Section No. 15332 (Class No. 32) of the California Environmental Quality Act, and Section No. 3.22 (Categorical Exemption) of the Local 2019 Guidelines for Implementing the CEQA, and direct staff to file a Notice of Exemption; and,
2. Approve Design Review (DRP) No. 24-020.
APPLICANT:
SA Architects and Engineers
Saber Awad
8471 Laurel Avenue
Fontana, CA 92335
LOCATION:
The project site is located on the southwest corner of Arrow Boulevard and Sierra Avenue, at 8466, 8470 and 8486 Sierra Avenue (APNs: 0191-163-26; -16; -17).
REQUEST:
Design Review (DRP) No. 24-0020 - A request for site and architectural review of a five (5) story mixed-use Art Deco style building, consisting of retail, office and residential uses and associated improvements on approximately 0.5-acres.
PROJECT PLANNER:
Alejandro Rico, Associate Planner
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
Previous Approvals:
1. On July 25, 2023, the City Council approved the Downtown Core (Resolution 2023-088) as an amendment to the Form Based Code to allow higher density residential projects and to encourage entertainment uses to create a destination area in the Downtown
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General Plan |
Zoning/Specific Plan |
Existing Use |
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Site: |
Walkable Mixed-Urban Village (WMXU-3) |
Form Based Code (FBC) Downtown District |
Parking lot |
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North |
Walkable Mixed Urban Village (WMXU-3) |
Form Based Code (FBC) Downtown District |
Commercial uses |
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South |
Walkable Mixed Urban Village (WMXU-3) |
Form Based Code (FBC) Downtown District |
Arrow Boulevard Commercial uses beyond |
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East |
P-PF |
Form Based Code (FBC) Downtown District |
Civic Center/Chamber of Commerce |
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West |
Walkable Mixed Urban Village (WMXU-3) |
Form Based Code (FBC) Downtown District |
Moose Lodge Service Organization |
PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
A. Site Area: 21,600 square feet (approximately .5 acres total)
B. FAR Allowed: 2.0
Propose: 1.9
C. Building Height:
Sierra Avenue : 35 feet (maximum)
Sierra Avenue Provided: 14 feet
Second Story: 70 feet (Maximum)
Second Story Provided: 69 feet
Arrow Boulevard: 55 feet (Maximum)
Arrow Boulevard Provided: 14 feet
Second Story: 70 feet (Maximum)
Second Story Provided: 69 feet
D. Parking:
Total Required: 123 spaces
Provided: 123 spaces (25 Residential/98 Commercial)
E. Common Open Space:
Required 2,160 square feet
Provided 2,710 square feet. (12.5%)
ANALYSIS:
The applicant, SA Architects and Engineers, is requesting that the Planning Commission review and approve Design Review (DRP) No. 24-020 for the construction of a five (5) story mixed used building development and associated site improvements, on approximately 0.5 acres.
Design Review (DRP) No. 24-020:
The proposed five-story multi-use building (Sierra Sky Plaza Mixed Use Tower Project) will be comprised of 11,622 square feet of ground floor retail space with at least one restaurant proposed, a pedestrian walkway, outdoor seating areas, approximately 22,062 square feet of office space, and 20 multi-family residential units to be located on the upper two floors. Eighteen of these units are proposed as one bedroom and one bathroom unit with a square footage of 741 square feet each. Two units are proposed with one bedroom and one bathroom at 1.071 square feet. The project will provide an amenity outdoor deck for the residential units’ use.
The applicant proposes an Art Deco style for the building. A stucco exterior, stone veneer accent, and a variety of light neutral colors with an accent color will add structural and visual interest to the building. Additionally, variations to the five-story building face and roof lines provide additional details that will be architecturally pleasing. The building will incorporate ample windows, decorative scoring, decorative sconce lighting, flat roof lines, and metal railings. The residential units proposed are eighteen one bedroom/one bath units and two, two bedroom/two bath units, each with a private balcony, adding visual interest to the building. The proposed building will be complimentary to the surrounding area.
On and off-site infrastructure improvements along Sierra Avenue and Arrow Boulevard will be installed consisting of curbs and gutters, and sidewalks where needed. An existing street traffic light will be relocated. An enclosed concrete block wall trash enclosure will be located along the western side of the property to be easily accessible for trash collection.
Amenities/Open Space:
Amenities include two key areas to enhance the proposed project and connect residents and patrons to the rest of the Downtown. The proposed development includes an outdoor seating area, and pedestrian walkway along the northern portion of the site. Outdoor seating will provide an opportunity for diners to engage with the outdoors. Additionally, a walkway is proposed along this portion providing a landscaped walkway connecting the sidewalk along Sierra Avenue towards a lobby entrance and alley which may include future development. A deck area is proposed for the third story for residents which includes benches, tables, landscaping and a view of the Downtown.
The proposed development includes amenities for the residential units, including benches and tables which will allow residents the opportunity to use an outdoor space overlooking the Downtown. Each residential unit has a balcony also overlooking the Downtown.
Grading/Walls:
The Project Site is square shaped with a topography that is relatively flat. A low privacy wall will be installed around the northern outdoor dining area. A patio cover is proposed in this area to provide shelter for diners. Metal railings are proposed for the other retail suites which can also provide outdoor dining for restaurants.
Site Access/Circulation/Parking:
Pedestrian access to and from the project site will be off Sierra Avenue, and Arrow Boulevard. The project design will incorporate safety measures for pedestrians and users of the building, by providing adequate lighting throughout the project site, and the continued proper maintenance and management of the property. Parking for the project will be satisfied via a city parking structure that is in close proximity to the project site. The project includes bike racks and bike lockers for the residential users. The proposal includes solar installed on the roof of the building.
Environmental:
This project is Categorically Exempt pursuant to Section No. 15332 Class 32 (Infill Development) of the California Environmental Quality Act and Section No. 3.22 of the 2019 Local Guidelines for Implementing CEQA. The project is consistent with the applicable general plan and zoning, occurs within city limits on a project site of less than five acres substantially surrounded by urban uses, the project site has no value as habitat for endangered, rare, or threatened species, approval of the project would not result in any significant impacts related to traffic, noise, air quality, or water quality, and the site can be adequately served b all required utilities and public services. Further, none of the exceptions in CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2 apply to the project.
MOTION:
Approve Staff’s recommendation
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Vicinity Map
2. Project Plans
3. Planning Commission Resolution, Findings, and Conditions of Approval
4. Notice of Exemption
5. Public Hearing Notice