Mixed-use project approved

On Aug. 8, the Tehachapi Planning Commission unanimously approved a mixed-use project to be located on the southeast corner of Tehachapi Blvd. and Hayes St. next to the Ranch House Motel and across Hayes from Red House BBQ.

This project was originally brought before the Planning Commission at a Special Meeting held on June 27 with no decision made. The mixed use project, as originally proposed, contained retail space and eight two-story dwelling units to be located on the half-acre lot. The majority of complaints were that the project was too large for the lot size with too many units and not enough off street parking.

Since that last meeting, architect Robert Friedman of Pasadena modified the project design, removing one of the center dwelling units and replacing it with a private gated garden area for the use of the residents. The mixed-use project still contains 2,500 square feet of retail/restaurant space but has added six parallel parking spaces in addition to the garage space planned for each unit. Trees will also be planted on the east side of the project. The owner of the project is Paul Zerounian of Palmdale.

A the first meeting, local resident Carlee McKay shared concerns about congestion on Hayes with Red House BBQ across the street. She told the Commission that she felt the new plan was a definite improvement.

The commissioners voted 4-0 to approve the project. Commissioner Charles White was absent.

The Tehachapi Planning Commission meets on the second Monday of the month at 6 p.m. at the Tehachapi Police Department Community Room located at 220 W. C St.