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Zoning Administrator approves Montgomery Village storefront upgrades; developer to remove recent tower element
Summary
A minor design review (DR24-038) for storefront improvements, enhanced landscaping and streetscape changes at Montgomery Village (707–720 Farmers Lane) was approved by the Santa Rosa City Zoning Administrator; WS Development said the project will remove a 2003 tower element to create a focal point and add pedestrian improvements.
The Santa Rosa City Zoning Administrator on Jan. 1, 2025 approved a minor design review (DR24-038) permitting storefront upgrades, landscaping and other exterior improvements to the north side of Building F at Montgomery Village (707–720 Farmers Lane).
Planner Briscoe described the project as improvements to four storefronts on the north side of Building F, including upgraded storefronts, landscaping and pedestrian-focused alterations. "This project has also been reviewed in compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to section 15301 and is categorically exempt because this is a minor alteration to an existing structure," Briscoe said.
A representative of WS Development, which the representative said has owned the property since 2021, said the design intends to shift a focal point southward to create an "anchor tenant moment" and to maintain overall character. The representative explained the tower element targeted for removal was installed in 2003 and is not historically significant. "Wereally appreciate all of your time today. The WS Development has owned this property since 2021 and we've been doing a lot of reinvestment in it," the representative said.
Members of the hearing praised the landscaping changes as improving pedestrian circulation near restaurants and reducing conflicts between pedestrians and vehicles. The zoning administrator approved the design review with standard appeal rights; the approval is final unless an appeal is filed with the City Clerk’s office within 10 calendar days.
