Barone's Should Be Replaced By Businesses, Officials Say: Report

PLEASANTON, CA — Pleasanton planning commissioners believe Barone's Restaurant should be replaced, at least in part, with commercial space if it is torn down — not just housing, Bay Area News Group reported.

Joe and Maricela Barone have long run the popular downtown restaurant and event venue but are looking to switch up their business after their sons decided not to take it over, the outlet reported.

They've proposed a couple of options for their properties at 475 and 493 St. John Street: an all-residential development for 10 two-story homes with seven accessory dwelling units; and a mixed-use development for nine two-story homes with five ADUs and a commercial building with a parking lot, intended for house office space, according to a city report on the proposal designed by developer Robson Homes.

Some in the community have rallied against the possibility of replacing the site with just homes.

"In short, this premium creekside parcel that has long been a venue for the enjoyment of all residents, could be restricted to just a handful of private homeowners in the near future," wrote local group Pleasanton Voters in an email to subscribers.

City staff noted in its report to planning commissioners that the city council previously considered redevelopment of the Barone's property and created a policy guidance that says "residential-only is not desirable" and a mixed-use commercial/residential development would be preferable.

The site is currently zoned for commercial use, so a residential-only or mixed-use project would require rezoning.

The Planning Commission suggested the Barones and Robsom Homes come back with plans that incorporate commercial space, Bay Area News Group reported.

The Barones' 2.3-acre property includes a home listed as a historic resource in the city's general plan, city staff wrote. A historic evaluation would be necessary for all buildings on the property, including the restaurant building, if the proposal includes modifications to the buildings.

Read more at Bay Area News Group.