Development Projects Under Review
Sonora, CA — Several development projects are going through the Environmental Review process in Tuolumne County.
On Mother Lode Views over the weekend, Community Resources Agency Director Bev Shane noted that several large projects are on the table, and others were recently approved. Here are some of the highlights.
The Grand Yosemite National Golf and Wetland Preserve project has been talked about for several years. The project would be situated at the Highway 108/120 Yosemite Junction. It would feature a golf course, lodge, and residential housing subdivision. The project is still in the Environmental Impact Review process, and the county is currently waiting for a water supply assessment to be completed. The developers are hoping to utilize water via T.U.D. It is not immediately known when the EIR will be completed.
The Yosemite Gateway Plaza project proposed for Big Oak Flat is still moving forward. Plans call for a shopping center, hotels and recreational facilities. Progress slowed down because the original consultant working on the project backed out, so the county has been talking with the developer regarding a new EIR contract.
The county has been working with Caltrans regarding access issues related to the proposed Dollar General Store off of Highway 108 in Jamestown. It would be located next to the Rawhide Saloon. Shane said the project will likely have a public hearing in the fall.
The Yosemite Gardens project is still proposed for the former Jamestown Mine site. The group is hoping to build numerous youth ball fields, garden space, a shopping center and lodging. The developers have a deadline to meet at the end of this month to pay the county the remaining funds owed to purchase the land outright.
The Golden State Holdings apartment complex was approved for Parrotts Ferry Road. The 80 unit facility is currently facing a legal challenge from Tuolumne County Citizens For Responsible Growth. Shane says the developer is required to pay the costs to defend the matter in court. The county is working closely with the developer’s attorneys regarding the case.
The county has approved a “continuum of care” project off Tuolumne Road near Eagle Ridge Drive. It will feature senior apartments and an assisted living facility. There will also be a medical office built on the site. The project will be constructed in phases, and the developer hopes to start building next summer.
The county recently issued a use-permit for the construction of a homeless facility off Tuolumne Road. The Mitchell family already offers programs for the homeless population, and this will provide a permanent shelter. They are focusing on Veterans and members of the senior community. They also hope to start construction in summer of 2014.
You can listen to the entire 30-minute Mother Lode Views show by clicking here. Other topics include changes in the building department and new challenges the county is facing regarding code compliance.
