Controversial Quarry Reclamation Plan Faces Public Scrutiny

In a recent government meeting, officials discussed a significant proposal to rezone a former quarry site in Pacifica, California, from service commercial to planned development (PDX) for residential use. The proposed changes require public approval due to the site's location within the Hillside Preservation District, which mandates a public vote for such zoning alterations.

The reclamation plan for the 86-acre site involves the removal of 25 protected trees and necessitates a variance to exceed grading coverage limitations. The project aims to reduce the fill required for reclamation from 874,000 cubic yards to 583,000 cubic yards, a 33% decrease, in response to community feedback. Notably, the plan includes restrictions on truck trips during school drop-off hours to minimize disruption.

The site, which is divided into two parcels, is also subject to additional regulatory approvals, including a coastal development permit from the California Coastal Commission and permits from various federal and state agencies. The reclamation activities are designed to prepare the site for future development in line with the city's 2040 general plan, which emphasizes environmentally sustainable practices.

Staff recommendations for the planning commission include certifying the final environmental impact report (EIR) for the reclamation plan, adopting necessary findings under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), and recommending city council approval for the rezoning and development plan. The meeting underscored the importance of community engagement and regulatory compliance in the redevelopment of the quarry site, which has undergone several iterations of reclamation proposals.