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The San Benito Blueprint

The San Benito Blueprint

A Benitoites Guide to Understanding Development



  • August 19, 2025

    Builder’s Remedy: Betabel Pivots from Roadside Attraction to Housing

    Builder’s Remedy: Betabel Pivots from Roadside Attraction to Housing

    Before you Begin The Betabel Project is a proposed project along Highway 101 and Betabel Road in San Benito County. The initial project would have been a roadside attraction that included a visitor’s center in the shape of a watering can, a restaurant, fruit stand, market, motel, gas station, outdoor event center, outdoor movie screen,… Continue reading

    Housing
    builders remedy, Commercial, Housing
  • August 7, 2025

    945 Acre Solar + Battery Storage Project Proposed North of Hollister

    945 Acre Solar + Battery Storage Project Proposed North of Hollister

    The Allium Solar project in San Benito County proposes a 945-acre solar farm with a 15-acre battery storage system. Developed by Allium Solar LLC, it aims to generate 110 MW of power, creating 200 construction jobs and 15 permanent positions. Construction could start in 2027, with full operation by 2029. Continue reading

    Development
    Commercial, infrastructure, news
  • July 23, 2025

    Unincorporated County’s Housing Element Unlocks Potential 4,400 Homes In and Around Hollister

    Unincorporated County’s Housing Element Unlocks Potential 4,400 Homes In and Around Hollister

    The San Benito County Board of Supervisors adopted its 6th Cycle Housing Element on May 20, 2025, addressing a need for 168 lower-income units. A rezone strategy will create a new “Residential High” designation across 12 sites, allowing 25-40 units per acre. The county must complete rezoning by December 2025 to maintain compliance. Continue reading

    Policy
    affordable-housing, Housing, housing element, news, politics, writing
  • June 13, 2025

    Ridgemark Project: Draft Environmental Impact Report Currently Out for Public Comment

    Ridgemark Project: Draft Environmental Impact Report Currently Out for Public Comment

    The Ridgemark Project, proposed in 2021, includes a 154-room hotel, 45,000 square feet of commercial space, 160 market-rate homes, and a 4-acre park. The draft environmental impact report is open for public comment until June 24, 2025, with significant improvements planned for Ridgemark Drive. Comments can be submitted to county officials. Continue reading

    Housing
    Commercial, Housing
  • June 1, 2025

    County Proposes Urban Zoning Reform & Revisions of Rural Livestock Rules

    County Proposes Urban Zoning Reform & Revisions of Rural Livestock Rules

    The San Benito County Planning Commission will discuss zoning reform and rural livestock rules on June 4th. Proposed changes include eliminating single-family zoning, setting density limits for new developments, and mandating commercial components near major roads. Additionally, new restrictions on livestock types and density limits will be reviewed during the meeting. Continue reading

    Policy
  • May 30, 2025

    Builder’s Remedy: Lands of Lima, A New Community Proposed South of Ridgemark

    Builder’s Remedy: Lands of Lima, A New Community Proposed South of Ridgemark

    The Lands of Lima project is a master-planned community proposing 983 homes, including low and moderate income rentals. It features a 65,000 square foot commercial center, open space, and parks. Located near Ridgemark, it aims to meet affordable housing requirements under the Builders Remedy provision while providing local amenities. Continue reading

    Housing
  • May 22, 2025

    Northern Barrier, Safety Improvements Proposed for Highway 25

    Northern Barrier, Safety Improvements Proposed for Highway 25

    The Mobility Partnership aims to address traffic issues in Southern Santa Clara County and Northern San Benito County, focusing on Highway 25 improvements following a safety investigation. Proposed enhancements include concrete barriers, dynamic signage, and intersection upgrades. Public engagement is planned for June, with project designs expected shortly. Continue reading

    Infrastructure
  • March 5, 2025

    Heritage Plaza to Get A Spanish-style Makeover

    Heritage Plaza to Get A Spanish-style Makeover

    Heritage Plaza in Hollister is undergoing a Spanish style renovation, led by the Nino Family. The center, housing national retailers and small businesses, aims to enhance its appeal and functionality, improving signage and architecture. The remodel’s first phase is complete, while the next phase focuses on retail upgrades, expected to start in spring. Continue reading

    Development
    architecture, business, Commercial, europe, history, real-estate, spain, travel
  • February 27, 2025

    Builder’s Remedy Allows for Density Reduction on Sunnyslope Housing Project

    Builder’s Remedy Allows for Density Reduction on Sunnyslope Housing Project

    Roem Development has revised a housing project at 851 Sunnyslope Rd under the Builder’s Remedy provision, proposing 62 units, with 21% designated as affordable. This new plan significantly reduces density from the original 174-unit project. The proposal aims to meet California’s housing requirements through streamlined planning processes. Continue reading

    Housing
  • February 19, 2025

    LAFCO, What It Is and Why You Should Be Paying Attention.

    LAFCO, What It Is and Why You Should Be Paying Attention.

    LAFCO, or Local Agency Formation Commissions, regulates local government agencies, aiming for orderly development and adequate public services. Recent updates in San Benito County include commissioner changes and a focus on a wastewater MSR. Attention to LAFCO is vital, as its decisions affect local governance and service provisions. Continue reading

    Policy
    LAFCO, news, Wastewater, Water
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Top Posts

The 7 Highway 25 Projects That Are Going to Change the Drive In and Out of TownThe 7 Highway 25 Projects That Are Going to Change the Drive In and Out of TownMay 21, 2026
Hollister Farms' Newest Building Gets Go Ahead From Planning CommissionersHollister Farms' Newest Building Gets Go Ahead From Planning CommissionersFebruary 7, 2025
Builder's Remedy: Lands of Lima, A New Community Proposed South of RidgemarkBuilder's Remedy: Lands of Lima, A New Community Proposed South of RidgemarkMay 30, 2025

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