Planning Commission approves three-unit Sierra Triplex at 2924 Sierra Street

The Riverbank Planning Commission on May 20 adopted Resolution 2025-004, approving an architectural and site plan review to allow construction of a two-story, three-unit multifamily building at 2924 Sierra Street.

The project, proposed by applicant Sammy Altre, sits on a vacant 10,710-square-foot parcel in the downtown specific plan area and carries a general-plan designation of high-density residential, Community Development Director Joshua Mann told the commission during the hearing.

Staff said the proposed triplex would add three residential units to the city's housing stock. Each unit uses the same floor plan: a first floor with living area, kitchen and laundry and a second floor with three bedrooms and three bathrooms; staff described the total area for each unit as “a little bit over 1,200 square feet.” Parking is proposed at the rear with alley access, and the landscape plan includes a public open-space area along Sierra Street with a table and barbecue area and perimeter plantings.

Mann told commissioners the project materials include stucco body color, stonework at the base, composition shingles and proposed barnwood-colored accents. Staff recommended the project be found exempt from CEQA under CEQA Guidelines §15332 (infill development) and recommended adoption of the resolution approving architecture and site plan review 10-2024.

A single written public comment on the project had been submitted and was distributed to commissioners before the meeting, but no speakers appeared during the public comment period. A commissioner asked whether second-floor units included balconies; Mann replied the submittal showed standard windows rather than exterior balconies.

The commission voted 5-0 to approve the resolution. Roll-call votes recorded Chair Tidy Zamora, Vice Chair Michael Sid Alterman, Commissioner John Dinan, Commissioner Joan Stewart and Commissioner Natasha Basso as voting yes. The motion and second were not identified by name in the public roll-call sequence.

Planning staff posted public notices in the Riverbank News on May 7 and mailed notices to property owners within 300 feet on May 5; the applicant also posted a notice sign at the property in advance of the required 10-day posting period, staff said.

The decision allows the applicant to proceed with building permit submittals consistent with the approved site and architectural plans and any conditions contained in Resolution 2025-004.