River Street Marketplace, a seven-building commercial project next to San Juan Capistrano’s Los Rios Historic District, could open as early as late 2021.
The City Council unanimously green lit the agrarian-themed mix of retail, restaurants and office space on Tuesday, Oct. 15, following months of negotiations between developer Dan Almquist and some residents of the Los Rios Historic District.
As a compromise, Almquist shrunk the project’s footprint, while increasing outdoor green spaces and the number of buildings. The city’s Planning Commissioners in September supported the revised proposal.
“I think it’s easy for people to get excited about it,” Councilman Troy Bourne said of plans for the River Street Marketplace. “Because they can see it rolling out in its best possible form.”
The development replaces the Ito Nursery.
“Everyone understands what a unique and special place Los Rios is, and I think this project will complement the district,” Almquist said.
Los Rios resident Jeff Vasquez, who had threatened legal action to block the project, said he is delighted to have reached a compromise with Almquist. “This version of the project is much kinder to the residents of the Los Rios.”
The planning commissioners had asked for a ban on outdoor, amplified live music and smoking at River Street Marketplace, but council members said they want to give flexibility to Almquist. Almquist said he wasn’t planning for the music, calling it a a “non-starter” for the project. He said he would consider banning smoking in the space.
Construction should start by late spring or early summer, Almquist said.
