Castle Air Museum Aviation Pavilion Project (RSO 0272-25, SP 25-10-0200, AR 25-10-0300)

The Castle Air Museum Aviation Pavilion Project, managed by the City of Atwater, involves the multi-phased development of a 31.14-acre parcel located at 5050 Santa Fe Drive, Atwater, California. The project scope includes new building construction, site improvements, and the relocation of a pre-engineered metal building from Beale Air Force Base. Development is structured in three phases: Phase 1 includes a 60,000 square foot pavilion building, a 28,000 square foot roof covered area, and the relocation of the 9,600 square foot SR-71 Hangar. Phase 2 consists of a 50,000 square foot pavilion building, a 10,000 square foot cafe and gift shop, a 30,000 square foot roof covered area, and a parking lot with 177 stalls. Phase 3 involves the construction of an 80,000 square foot pavilion building. The project is subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and was approved on November 19, 2025, following a Mitigated Negative Declaration. Environmental compliance includes addressing biological, cultural, and geological concerns, as well as adhering to San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District regulations. The Department of Toxic Substances Control has provided specific guidance regarding the protection of groundwater monitoring and extraction systems on the site. Administrative oversight is handled through Resolution RSO 0272-25, Site Plan Review SP 25-10-0200, and Architectural Review AR 25-10-0300, with verification of work performed through the standard building permit and inspection process.