Major Site Development Permit for the Construction of a Single-Story Commercial Shell with Associated Site Improvements

The City of Ukiah has approved a Major Site Development Permit for the construction and operation of a new single-story commercial shell building located at 1294 and 1296 N. State Street. The project involves the development of an approximately 3,261-square-foot structure on a 0.90-acre site within the Community Commercial (C-1) Zoning District. The building will feature a contemporary design with storefront glazing, parapet detailing, and a maximum height of 18 feet. This development serves to revitalize a vacant commercial parcel previously destroyed by fire. A key condition of the approval is the permanent removal of the originally proposed drive-through facility, which eliminates all associated dedicated queuing, stacking, and access aisle infrastructure. Comprehensive site improvements are integrated into the project to enhance connectivity and utility. These include 32 vehicle parking spaces, 3 bicycle parking spaces, and expanded pedestrian walkways created by modifying a former 6-foot wide planter area. Additional site features include provisions for potential outdoor dining, the installation of shading elements, and a new landscaping plan designed to achieve 21% coverage of the total parcel area. The project has been granted a Categorical Exemption under CEQA Guidelines Section 15332 for infill development, as it is consistent with zoning, located in an urban area, and presents no significant environmental impacts. Construction must comply with local City of Ukiah noise and grading regulations.