City considers impacts of Murdy project

City Hall looked into a proposed mixed-use development in northern Huntington Beach that would bring specialty stores, apartments and increased traffic to the area.

The Planning Commission on Tuesday held its first study session on the environmental impact report for the Murdy Commons Mixed Use project and a proposal for a development in the project area.

The proposed project by residential developer the Sares-Regis Group would bring 487 apartments and 14,500 square feet of commercial space to the area. The development would also include a one-acre recreation area, half of which is slated to be open space, according to project documents.

Staff is reviewing the project, said Senior Planner Jennifer Villasenor.

The proposed project would fall under the EIR for the Murdy Commons Mixed Use project, Villasenor said.

The EIR analyzed the impacts of a maximum of 984 dwelling units and 60,000 square feet of retail across the 12.5-acre site in the northeast corner of Edinger Avenue and Gothard Street.

The EIR, which analyzes how a proposal will impact the surrounding community, found that the project will have significant impacts on air quality and traffic.

Air quality would exceed the recommendations during construction and from the increased traffic in the area, Villasenor said.

The project would also contribute to traffic issues at two intersections already identified as future problem areas, Brookhurst Street and Adams Avenue and Beach Boulevard and Bolsa Avenue, and the 405 Freeway northbound loop ramp, according to project documents.

The commission is scheduled to certify the EIR at its Feb. 8 meeting.