Riverbank Planning Commission approves retail development along Patterson Road

The Riverbank Planning Commission convened on December 17, 2024, to address several key agenda items, including public concerns about water quality and a significant retail development proposal.

The meeting began with a public comment from Norma Rauza, a resident of Riverbank, who raised urgent concerns regarding the city's water quality. Rauza noted that residents have received multiple notices about the water being unsafe for consumption, prompting her to inquire whether the city could provide better water services, especially given the high costs residents are already paying. The commission acknowledged her comments but stated that they could not respond during this period.

Following the public comment, the commission moved on to the consent calendar, which was approved unanimously after a motion and a second were made. This streamlined process allowed the commission to act on multiple items collectively without further discussion.

The primary focus of the meeting was on item 3.1, which involved an architecture and site plan review for a new retail development along Patterson Road. Michael Arroyo, a contract planner for the city, presented the details of the project, which includes a 23,729 square foot retail building with a 20,000 square foot enclosed outdoor display area, set to be occupied by Tractor Supply. Additionally, the proposal includes a second 16,000 square foot retail building and plans for two quick-service restaurants, which will be reviewed separately at a later date.

The project encompasses a tentative parcel map that aims to subdivide the existing two parcels into four, allowing for distinct uses on separate parcels. A conditional use permit is also part of the proposal, permitting the sale of alcoholic beverages for off-site consumption.

Arroyo emphasized that the project aligns with the city’s zoning and general plan designations, which support commercial development in the area. The commission reviewed the site layout, which includes two access points from Patterson Road, designed in coordination with Caltrans to ensure safety and traffic flow. Additionally, a stormwater retention basin will be included to manage runoff, and an 8-foot wall will be constructed to separate the commercial area from adjacent residential zones.

The meeting concluded with the commission's approval of the architecture and site plan review, moving forward with the development process. The next steps will involve further administrative reviews and community engagement as the project progresses.