PLN200017 San Benito Travelers Station Conditional Use Permit and Site/Architectural Approval General Plan Amendment, and Zone Change, Amended IS/MND

Project PLN200017 involves a General Plan amendment and zone change in San Benito County to transition a site from Rangeland and Agricultural Rangeland to Commercial Regional and Commercial Thoroughfare (C-1). The development will feature a 24-hour traveler's station consisting of a 4,000 square foot convenience store and fast-food building with a drive-thru, auto and truck fueling services, propane sales, electric vehicle charging stations, and a county informational kiosk. Site infrastructure includes 34 vehicle parking spots, dedicated truck parking, a new private septic system, a storm detention pond, and the use of an existing on-site well. Access will be provided via two entrances and one exit on Searle Road, with planned frontage improvements including street widening and new striping. The project is subject to extensive environmental and technical oversight, including a Mitigated Negative Declaration and various impact analyses covering traffic, greenhouse gas emissions, and landslide susceptibility. Key requirements include a focused botanical survey by a qualified biologist for special-status plants and the establishment of protective easements for elderberry trees. Necessary approvals include permits from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Caltrans, and the Regional Water Quality Control Board. Financial obligations include the San Benito County Regional Transportation Impact Mitigation Fee and environmental review fees payable upon the filing of the Notice of Determination. Construction was slated to begin in November 2024, with the facility expected to be operational by 2026.