Planners Send Developer Back to the Drawing Board on 3 Story Project

The first draft of plans for a housing project on 16th Street, which included three story buildings, were rejected by members of the Ramona Community Planning Group last week.

The plans for the Valley Park Apartments included 60 units with a density of 24 units per acre. This project draft was described as a first approach, and Lansing Companies said they came to see what the planning group thought of the draft.

No vote was taken, but consensus amongst planners that spoke was that they wouldn't support the three stories and the unit density was out of line with guidelines.

"The Fire Department doesn't have trucks that will hit three stories," said planner Kristi Manslof.

Three story buildings are against the Ramona Community Plan, and would have to be approved by the RCPG and county, according to the RCPG. 

One-time RCPG planner Chris Anderson spoke opposed to the project and cited the section of the Community Plan that says the maximum unit density per acre is 7.3 in Ramona Town Center unless it is senior or affordable housing.

"We were pulverized in the 80s when commercial zoning became apartments in town center," said Anderson. 

The project was described as using a California courtyard style, included a pool and recreation area The apartments would be in back of the lot, with single level buildings near the road. A tot lot area would also be constructed and an activity area for swimming, all far larger than required.

Lansing Companies told the group they'd be back with another draft based on their suggestions.