Redtree Properties received approval from the city council to turn a row of vacant offices in Capitola, Calif., into a two-story self-storage facility with 820 units. 

The 37,518-square-foot office building has been vacant for more than a year. City council members had debated about the project, which faced opposition from some area business owners who questioned whether self-storage is the right fit for the 85,620-square-foot plaza. The city’s code did not allow for self-storage in the community commercial zone.

While city officials wanted to retain the area’s retail status, the empty building had not attracted any developers. Also, the space lacks windows and parking. The unanimous vote came after city council members amended the city code.  

Construction will begin June 1, with a facility opening planned for Nov. 1. Redtree Properties anticipates the project will cost $1 million to $1.5 million to build.

Source:  Santa Cruz Sentinel,  Capitola Approves New Use for Vacant Building

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