Deadline For Sonoma Hotel-Townhouse Project Weighed

SONOMA VALLEY, CA — The Sonoma Planning Commission will review tonight whether to grant a one-year extension for a major hotel and residential development at 117–153 West Napa Street, allowing developers more time to move forward with the project after delays.

The project, first approved in October 2023 and amended in January 2024, includes a 62-room hotel, an 80-seat restaurant/bar, a spa, a pool veranda, 130 parking spaces, and eight residential units. Developers are seeking a one-year extension to finalize a lot-line adjustment, secure a hotel brand, and complete the necessary planning. Staff recommend approving the request.

The development was first applied for in 2012, entails demolishing nearly 14,000 square feet of existing structures to build a 65,606-square-foot hotel, a 21,221-square-foot residential building, and supporting amenities. The Environmental Impact Report and the original project conditions were already approved. In January 2024, Sonoma City Council members added amendments following initial approval.

City staff said in a report that the applicant meets the extension criteria, including showing an intent to move forward and providing evidence that most conditions will be satisfied through the lot-line adjustment and during the building permit process.

If the extension is granted, the project's permit—which would otherwise expire—will remain valid for one more year, through January 17, 2027.

The Planning Commission’s decision will determine whether the development can proceed to construction, bringing new lodging, dining, and residential options to downtown Sonoma.

The Sonoma Planning Commission meeting begins 6 p.m.

City Council Chambers, 177 First Street West, Sonoma and online.