Proposal for Redevelopment of 24307 Railroad Ave (Old Courthouse) Background:
The property at 24307 Railroad Ave, commonly known as the Old Courthouse, was constructed in 1931 to serve as both the Santa Clarita Courthouse on the ground floor and the Masonic Lodge on the second floor. In 1960, the Newhall Masonic Building Company liquidated the property, and the courthouse was relocated to Valencia in 1968. Since then, the building has undergone multiple renovations, including conversion of the ground floor to office space. At one point, a coffee shop operated there for train commuters, though it has since closed.
The building was designated as a historical structure following the adoption of the Old Town Newhall Specific Plan (OTNSP) in 2005, which included the establishment of a historical preservation ordinance. Due to its local significance, the building was included among the structures to be preserved. It currently serves as office space for a law firm and as a meeting venue for the Rafter’s AA group.
Proposal:
Old Town Main II, LLC proposes to redevelop this property, along with immediately adjacent parcels, into a 78-unit mixed-use apartment building with ground-floor retail along Main Street. This redevelopment will align with the requirements and guidelines established in the OTNSP , ensuring that the project enhances the continuity and vibrancy of Old Town Newhall’s historical significance while embracing future growth.
Findings:
Section 17.64.100(B) of the Santa Clarita Municipal Code permits the relocation of a historic resource if such relocation is necessary for a project that aligns with and supports the identified goals and objectives of the General Plan. The relocation must not significantly impact the purposes of the code, or any impact must be outweighed by the benefits of the new project. Furthermore, the structure must be movable without compromising its historical or architectural integrity, as demonstrated by an expert in historic preservation or building relocation.
This section also permits the demolition of a historical resource if relocation is infeasible and no feasible alternatives to demolition exist.
The proposed project meets the goals and objectives of the General Plan and conforms to the intent and guidelines established in the OTNSP . The project will add 78 dwelling units to Old Town Newhall, along with high-quality retail space consistent with the Arts and Entertainment (AE) zone designation for this site. This will contribute to the area’s economic development, vibrancy, and vitality. The architectural features of the proposed building will draw inspiration from historical references to buildings that previously existed on the site and within its immediate neighborhood, paying homage to Old Town Newhall’s historical character.
Following an evaluation of relocation possibilities, the extensive modifications, additions, and alterations to the original structure render relocation infeasible based on discussions with local stakeholders and representatives from the Santa Clarita Historical Society.
Proposed Mitigation Measures:
While the Old Courthouse structure is proposed to be demolished, we are committed to preserving its historical significance through the following measures:
1. Installation of a permanent commemorative plaque at a prominent location on the new building’s exterior, identifying the site as the location of the Old Courthouse and describing its history.
2. Documentation and professional photography of the Old Courthouse in its current condition, with a display of these photographs and descriptive text as a collage within the lobby of the new mixed-use building.
3. A $750,000 monetary contribution from Old Town Main II, LLC to support the mission of the Santa Clarita Historical Society.
We appreciate your consideration of this request and look forward to collaborating on a development that fosters the continued growth and vibrancy of Santa Clarita while respecting its rich historical heritage.