RIPON – Area commuters could soon welcome a new park and ride lot at Jack Tone Road along Highway 99.

No discussion was necessary as Ripon City Council approved a negative declaration Tuesday to develop the 75-parking space facility that would include three designated handicapped parking stalls near the Flying ‘J’ truck stop and the northbound ramp of the freeway.

Plans also call for the installation of bicycle lockers along with street and parking lot lighting. A bus shelter could fit in as a future project.

In addition, the park and ride facility would have Class 1 bikeway, thus, allowing access for cyclists as well as pedestrians.  Other improvements would consist of landscaping, new water pipes, concrete pavers, curbs, gutters, and sidewalks throughout the site.

By adopting the negative declaration – in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act guidelines– the city’s Environmental Review Officer made it official that the .57-acre-parcel project has no significant effect on the environment.

According to Ken Zuidervaart, who is the city’s Director of Planning, the purpose of the project is to provide area commuters with additional opportunities for ridesharing and alternate transportation options.

Cost of the project is estimated at $646,000. The San Joaquin Council of Governments via the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality program would account for $396,000 with matching funds from Measure K – or $250,000 – providing the balance.