City plans major redevelopment of historic Redwood Drive-In site

In a recent government meeting, officials discussed a significant development proposal for a 26-acre property located at 3688 South Redwood Road, currently home to the Redwood Drive-In and a swap meet. The proposal seeks to amend the general plan and zoning from commercial to medium-density residential, allowing for up to 12 units per acre. This change would facilitate the construction of approximately 308 residential units, including townhomes, condos, and single-family homes.

The meeting highlighted the necessity of a traffic impact study, mandated for projects involving 100 or more units. This study, along with two sets of planning commission minutes, reflects extensive public input, including petitions and online comments. A presentation from the economic development department was also requested to assess the commercial potential of the property.

Key to the discussions was a letter from the property owner explaining the rationale behind the sale, which was deemed important in light of public concerns. The planning commission reviewed multiple design concepts, with the latest iteration addressing previous feedback regarding parking and access. The initial proposal faced criticism for insufficient parking and the inclusion of dead-end streets, prompting revisions that now meet parking standards.

The surrounding area features a mix of residential and commercial properties, including Granger Elementary School, townhomes, and a daycare, indicating a diverse community context for the proposed development. The planning commission's ongoing evaluation of the project will consider both the potential benefits and community concerns as the proposal moves forward.