The Terraces at Bethany got the green light Monday from the Ripon Planning Commission.
“We’re ready to go with the project,” said Chairperson Debra Van Essen following the approval of the proposed three-story 106,894 square foot building that will feature 82 residential housing units – all told, that’s three studio apartments, 46 one-bedroom apartments, and 33 two-bedroom apartments.
The residential units will range in size from 475 square feet to 1,250 square feet, according to Planning Director Ken Zuidervaart in his staff report.
“All units will enjoy their own outdoor balcony space,” he said.
The project, located on about 2.73 acres – specially, 816 W. Main St. and 200 Vera Ave. – would include the demolition of four existing buildings. Those vacant structures were identified as the old Christian school house / associated storage building along with a former dental office and doctor’s office.
Approval of a Conditional Use Permit, approval of a Planned Unit Overlay District, approval of a Lot Merger, and adoption of the required CEQA (California Environmental Quality Act) compliance merger are still needed. For that, the project will go before the Ripon City Council.
The exterior of the building was described as mix of white stucco and red brick, matching the architectural style of downtown.
“The main entrance of the building will be off Vera Avenue and will be adorned with a porte-cochere for residential / guest pick-up and drop-off,” said Zuidervaart.
Indoor amenities will include a lobby, a formal dining room, a café / bistro, library, fitness / wellness center, a craft room, multipurpose meeting and event hall rooms, a salon and support centers.
Outside, Terraces at Bethany will feature landscaped gardens and courtyard, outdoor dining areas and a pet area.
The off-street parking facility for the project exceeds the City of Ripon standards. Included are 82 stalls (46 standard and 36 compact), with one space for every unit.
Paul Aigner of GSI – a not-for-profit developer that works on senior housing projects – has been working with Bethany Homes since 2017.
He mentioned that facility will be licensed via the Department of Social Services as a Residential Care Facility.
“This would allow seniors to come in as independently living and remain there for the duration of life because of the all types of care available,” Aigner said.
He added: “A market study was done and there is a high demand for senior housing in the area and a lot of interest has been expressed from the community.”
Commissioner Jeff Veilleux said that this project reflects the culture of Ripon and who it supports the elderly.
