Cobb Community Park General Plan of Conformity and Initial Study (PL-25-96)

The Cobb Community Park Project (PL-25-96) is a phased development initiative by the County of Lake to establish a community park at 16540 State Highway 175 in Cobb, California. The project is designed to increase local access to open space and recreational facilities across four distinct phases. Phase 1 focuses on the western recreation area with a main parking lot, restrooms, picnic areas, and a dog run. Phase 2 involves the construction of a pedestrian bridge over Kelsey Creek, a retaining wall, and natural surface trails. Phase 3 centers on native species restoration and the removal of invasive species along the creek, while Phase 4 adds a secondary parking lot and concrete walk at the north corner along Golf Road. The project is governed by the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), with a Mitigated Negative Declaration confirming that the development will not have a significant environmental effect provided specific mitigation measures are followed. Key compliance requirements include adherence to Lake County's Oak Woodland Management Policy and the Municipal Code Grading Ordinance. Environmental protections are managed through a Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program, which includes botanical and nesting bird surveys, tree protection zones, and strict protocols for the discovery of archaeological resources. Operational and safety requirements are stringent, requiring the construction of emergency access routes capable of supporting 75,000-pound vehicles and maintaining a 15-foot vertical clearance. Fire safety is prioritized through the establishment of defensible space and the construction of emergency turnouts approved by the County Fire Marshal. Construction is restricted to Monday through Saturday, from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and is strictly prohibited on red flag warning days, Sundays, and federal holidays. The project is managed by the Lake County Community Development Department Planning Division, with Michelle Irace serving as the Senior Planner.