Planners Set For Vote On Subdivision

Planners Set For Vote On Subdivision
By Jennifer Gentile/Staff Writer
TheReporter.Com

The Vacaville City Council unanimously supported a subdivision project on California Drive last week, but another approval for the project remains and could be granted Tuesday.

Like the council, the Planning Commission backed the Montessa Subdivision that is to be built at 1222 California Drive, opposite Araquipa Court. However, the commission asked that the house plans come before them for separate approval, and that item is on its agenda for Tuesday night.

Although the entire site is about 40 acres, the 58-lot subdivision is set to be built on 17 acres while 23 acres will be designated hillside open space. The lots will range in size from 6,500 square feet to 21,125 square feet, averaging 8,500 square feet.

As part of the project, developer Pavilion Communities has agreed to complete improvements along California Drive.

On June 5, the commission sent the project to the city council with its recommendation, but they had some reservations about the house plans.

These concerns had to do with the elevations -- front, side, and rear views - of the homes, since the rear and sides will be visible from adjacent neighborhoods and parks.

Since the commission last saw the plans, Pavilion Project Manager Eric Peterson said, "We worked to enhance the rear and side elevations and make them as strong as the front so the home from all sides is pleasing."

The plans were modified to include features such as gable roofs and window shutters on the rear and sides.

Four house plans are proposed for Montessa, ranging from 2,065 square feet to 3,562 square feet. Of the 58 lots, there are 24 one-story homes and 34 two-story homes.

The plans feature three-four or five-bedroom homes with two or three bathrooms. Some plans have amenities like game rooms and three-car garages.

In their report to the commission, staff noted that "the overall number and style variation is intended to create a sufficient and attractive mix of architectural styles and building masses within the neighborhood."

Although another item, concerning the proposed Portofino Subdivision Unit 2, was scheduled for planning commission review Tuesday, staff is recommending continuing that item to a future meeting. The planning commission meets at 7 p.m. Tuesday night in City Hall council chambers.

Jennifer Gentile can be reached at vacaville@thereporter.com.