Hemet City Council reviews $54M amended warehouse project with reduced environmental impact

A significant development proposal was discussed during the Special City Council Meeting in Hemet on July 14, 2025, focusing on a major warehouse project that aims to reshape the local economy and infrastructure. The project, which spans approximately 74.88 acres, is set to include an 884,760 square-foot high-key warehouse, along with 9,000 square feet of office space and extensive parking facilities.

The amended proposal comes after previous plans faced scrutiny due to environmental concerns and community impact. The new design reduces the scale of the project by 40%, eliminating a previously proposed second building and a large trailer storage lot. This change aims to address community feedback and lessen potential traffic and environmental impacts.

Key improvements associated with the project include off-site infrastructure enhancements along Simpson and Warren Roads, such as roadway widening, new sidewalks, and landscaping. The developer has committed to funding a signal synchronization study and constructing a pedestrian trail along the Salt Creek Trail, which will enhance connectivity in the area.

In addition to infrastructure improvements, the project promises to create significant economic benefits for Hemet. It is projected to generate over 1,200 jobs during construction and approximately 1,253 permanent jobs once operational, contributing an estimated $74.5 million in annual labor income. The developer also plans to donate $50,000 towards a local art project celebrating Hemet's culture and history, alongside funding for a job fair to connect residents with employment opportunities.

The council is expected to weigh the benefits of the project against its environmental impacts, as previous proposals had raised concerns about significant unavoidable effects. The revised project aims to strike a balance between economic development and community well-being, with the council set to make a decision in the coming weeks. This development could serve as a catalyst for future growth in Hemet, aligning with the city’s goals for improved job-housing balance and infrastructure enhancement.