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Planet Fitness approved for Montebello Mix Shopping Center; operator says location will be open 24/7
Summary
The Planning Commission approved a conditional use permit for a new Planet Fitness at 802 West Beverly Boulevard (Montebello Mix Shopping Center). Staff said the project remodels ~17,609 sq.ft. of the former Rite Aid and is CEQA-exempt; the operator estimated about 12 full-time jobs and confirmed 24/7 hours.
The Montebello Planning Commission approved a conditional use permit to establish a Planet Fitness health and fitness club in the Montebello Mix Shopping Center at 802 West Beverly Boulevard.
Planning Manager Viviana Sparza presented Case PCDash2026Dash0021DashCUP and told the commission the project would remodel approximately 17,609 square feet of an existing vacant tenant space (former Rite Aid) for use as a fitness club. Staff said the shopping center provides about 894 on-site parking spaces and that the fitness use requires 1 parking space per 400 square feet — approximately 44 spaces for the Planet Fitness — so parking availability was found to be adequate. Staff recommended adopting Resolution 13-26 to conditionally approve the CUP and concluded the project qualifies for a Class 1 CEQA categorical exemption because it would not expand the building footprint.
Joe Bernadowitz, one of the Planet Fitness operators, said the company typically considers density, demographics and parking when selecting sites, noted the operator runs about 22 nearby locations, and estimated the new center would create about "12 full time" positions plus "4 to 8 part time" jobs. When a resident asked about hours and signage, Bernadowitz stated, "We intend to operate 24 7." The resident, Socorro Martinez of 624 North Montebello Boulevard, said the former Rite Aid’s illuminated sign "shines in our bedrooms" and asked whether new signage would have the same impact.
Planning staff responded that signage requires a separate permit and that planning will review sign size and illumination to minimize impacts to neighbors. Commissioners discussed neighborhood impacts, proximity to other gyms, and the potential benefit of increased foot traffic for adjacent businesses. One staff member also noted that Planet Fitness offers free membership to first responders as a community benefit.
A motion to approve the conditional use permit with staff recommendations carried on roll call (ayes from Commissioner Cuevas, Commissioner Morales, Vice Chairperson Lomeli and Chairperson Medina). Case number: PCDash2026Dash0021DashCUP. Staff will process any required signage permits and ensure conditions of approval are met.
