Ceres E. Whitmore Shopping Center Project

The Ceres E. Whitmore Shopping Center Project involves the development of approximately 3.7 acres of vacant land at 1050 E. Whitmore Avenue in Ceres, California. The project consists of a mixed-use commercial center featuring two fast-food restaurants, a multi-tenant retail building, and a quick oil-change center. Managed by the City of Ceres, the development aims to expand retail and service options along the Whitmore Avenue corridor while ensuring compatibility with nearby residential and commercial areas. The project is supported by a General Plan Amendment, Rezone, and Conditional Use Permit. Environmental compliance is a central component of the project, as evidenced by the Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration. Key requirements include the implementation of mitigation measures for biological resources, specifically protecting Swainson's hawks, burrowing owls, and white-tailed kites. The scope of work encompasses site preparation, grading, paving, and architectural coating, with strict adherence to CALGreen, ASHRAE, and Title 24 standards. Specific deliverables include a stormwater quality control plan, the installation of MERV-8 air filters, and the provision of EV charging for 8 percent of parking. Additionally, the project mandates a transition to all-electric appliances by 2026 for interiors and 2029 for exteriors. Administrative oversight is led by the City of Ceres, with Kelsey George serving as the primary contact. The project follows a timeline with site preparation scheduled from May 29 to June 5, 2027, and grading from June 6 to June 17, 2027. Special obligations include strict adherence to California Health and Safety and Public Resources Codes regarding the discovery of human remains, as well as compliance with RCRA and DTSC regulations for hazardous materials management. Public review for the Mitigated Negative Declaration was scheduled from July 22 to August 21, 2026.