San Clemente Hotel Plan Approved Amid Resident Concerns Over Noise

UPDATE: The San Clemente City Council has just approved a controversial plan for a four-story boutique hotel featuring a rooftop deck, aimed at welcoming visitors for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics and the surfing competition at nearby Lower Trestles. The decision comes as residents express concerns about increased noise and light pollution that could disrupt their quiet nights.

The project, named The Lodge at San Clemente, will be built on a 2-acre vacant parcel along Avenida Vista Hermosa, directly across from the Outlets at San Clemente. The council voted in favor of increasing the building height from 45 feet to 62 feet to accommodate the new rooftop deck and elevator towers, despite pushback from local residents who fear the height will exacerbate noise and light issues.

The council’s decision to bypass a comprehensive review by the city’s Design Review Commission has sparked outrage. Councilmember Mark Enmeier defended the move, stating, “Design Review might make a recommendation we don’t want to do and delay it more. I’d be more in favor of expediting this.”

Residents, led by Beverly Wiesen, are mobilizing against the project. An attorney for the community group warned that they might pursue legal action if the city fails to implement adequate mitigation measures for noise and light. Wiesen expressed frustration, saying, “They approved this without one noise condition… They are relying on an EIR that didn’t account for noise from 200 people 55 feet in the air.”

In a recent meeting, City Manager Andy Hall emphasized the importance of finding a compromise, suggesting that solutions could be integrated into the hotel’s design. “If we can enclose three walls and have a disappearing wall, we can contain the sound, especially in the evening hours,” he stated, indicating a willingness to work collaboratively with both the developer and residents.

Architect Tim Fleming has been working closely with Hall to address community concerns. He stated, “We have discussed putting some of the bar inside and enclosing a portion of the roof deck that would acoustically benefit the community.” He also reassured residents that measures would be taken to minimize light pollution. “All sources will be shielded and focused down to prevent glare,” he noted.

The urgency of this project is heightened by the upcoming Olympic Games, as Mayor Steve Knoblock highlighted the potential benefits, including significant sales tax revenue for San Clemente. “The goal is to have it for the 2028 Olympics; that’s why we want to get it built,” he affirmed.

As the project moves forward, a meeting is scheduled for November 3, 2023, where residents will discuss their concerns directly with the hotel’s architect. The community hopes to reach a consensus that addresses noise and operational hours while still allowing the development to progress.

This developing story underscores the tension between rapid development and community interests in San Clemente. Residents eagerly await the outcome of discussions that could shape the future of their neighborhood and the anticipated influx of visitors in just a few years.

Stay tuned for updates as this situation unfolds.