Sajali Islamic Society seeks approval for new Shia mosque in Corona

In a recent Planning and Housing Commission meeting held in Corona, Riverside County, discussions centered around the proposed establishment of a Shia mosque by the Sajali Islamic Society. This initiative aims to create a permanent place of worship for a smaller segment of the Muslim population, which represents about 10% of the global Muslim community. The mosque is expected to accommodate a congregation of approximately 175 individuals, with hopes of growing to 500 over the next decade.

The mosque's current operations are based in a city-owned suite within the Corona Mall, which they must vacate soon due to the mall's revitalization efforts. The representatives emphasized that their congregation has remained stable, with attendance averaging between 50 to 100 people for Friday prayers. Daily prayers, which occur five times a day, are anticipated to draw minimal attendance, often between zero and five individuals.

Traffic management was a significant concern raised during the meeting. The mosque's representatives assured the commission that they would keep the gates open during business hours to prevent traffic congestion on Main Street. They also committed to managing the flow of traffic to minimize disruptions, acknowledging the challenges posed by the site's single entrance.

Noise concerns were addressed as well, with the mosque's representatives stating that there would be no external speakers for the call to prayer, which will be contained within the building. This decision reflects their commitment to being considerate neighbors, especially given the mosque's proximity to residential areas.

Commissioners expressed their support for the project but raised questions about traffic flow and parking design. The mosque's representatives indicated that they had already collaborated with city planners and traffic teams to develop the current design, but they remained open to exploring potential adjustments if necessary.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted the community's evolving needs for diverse religious facilities while balancing concerns about traffic and neighborhood impact. The commission is expected to deliberate further on the conditional use permit application, with the Sajali Islamic Society hopeful for approval to establish their new mosque in Corona.