The City of Carlsbad's Planning Commission has taken a significant step towards enhancing local hospitality and community engagement by approving plans for a new event center in the Village of Mario. This project will feature three tenant spaces for retail and restaurant use, a pedestrian plaza, and seating areas, along with 10 surface parking spaces to accommodate visitors.

The event center will span three levels, with the ground floor dedicated to retail and dining. The second level will offer approximately 5,100 square feet of interior event space, complemented by a 2,690 square foot outdoor terrace equipped with a kitchen, office, storage, and restroom facilities. The third level will provide an additional 3,000 square feet of outdoor seating and bar service, along with a bridal suite for event use.

While the event center's use is not explicitly permitted under the current Village of Mario master plan, it aligns closely with the types of visitor-serving and hospitality uses envisioned for the area. The Planning Commission has determined that the event center can be approved through a conditional use permit, which will ensure compliance with specific conditions related to event size, hours, noise, and parking.

Under the proposed conditions, events will be limited to a maximum of 250 guests, and the facility must adhere to a parking management plan. Additionally, events will be required to conclude by midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, and by 11 PM on other weekends.

This approval marks a pivotal moment for the community, promising to enhance local amenities and provide a vibrant space for gatherings and celebrations. The Planning Commission's decision reflects a commitment to fostering a lively hospitality district that serves both residents and visitors alike.