Ramona planners favor central location of proposed apartments

By Karen Brainard

A preliminary proposal for an apartment complex in the 500 block of 16th Street across from Ramona Lutheran Church drew positive feedback for its central location from members of the Ramona Community Planning Group.

The multi-housing plans were presented by Bob Burch and Architect Edward Gros, both of Ramona, at the group’s July 11 meeting. Gros said they are exploring 40 units on 3.675 acres. Each two-story building would contain eight units — four on each floor — and have balconies and patios, said Gros,

Although the complex would not be designated senior housing, Burch said it would be senior-friendly, and first floor apartments would not have steps. Plans call for a community building and garden, and play areas, Gros said.

They noted that the spot offers easy access to the post office, library, retail stores and medical clinics.

Burch said they revised their plans after meeting with the Ramona Design Review Board on June 27.

“We’re looking at going toward a rural-type character,” said Gros. Parking, he said, would be in the rear with private garages or carports.

Burch noted he has been in Ramona since 1977.

“We want to do something that’s right by the community,” he said. The complex would participate in the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department’s Crime Free Multi-Housing Program, he added.

After prefacing, “I hate apartments,” Torry Brean said he liked the fact that the density would only be about 11 units per acre and it would not be low-income housing.

The parcel has a designator for community review so the project will have to go to the county for a site plan review, said Gros.

When asked what the construction timeframe would be, Burch said they would start as soon as they receive approval from the county and permits.