Planning Commission OKs Chico aquatic facility, adds sidewalk feasibility condition

The Planning Commission on June 5 approved a use permit and architectural review for the Chico Area Recreation and Park District(CARD) Chico Aquatic and Recreation Facility, voting 4-0 to adopt Resolution 25-08 and find the project categorically exempt from further environmental review under CEQA Section 15183.

The project would place an outdoor aquatic facility on the northern corner of Esplanade and Garner Lane on land donated to CARD in 2023. The facility design includes a competition-size 50-meter pool, a warm-up pool, a water-slide tower and a separate aquatics play area, a concessions building with party rooms and facilities, and parking for 187 vehicles plus five maintenance/delivery spaces and 20 bicycle parking spaces. CARD estimates typical summer days will use roughly 90to120 vehicle spaces; swim meets are projected to require about 130to180 spaces and would occur two to three times per year.

The commissionadopted the approval subject to the staff-recommended conditions and an added condition directing the final plan review to consider the feasibility of widening the sidewalk between Esplanade and the project entrance. Commissioner motion and second were recorded in the hearing; the roll call recorded four affirmative votes and no negatives.

Staff presentation and zoning context

Associate Planner…