Planning reversal on height of arts buildings

Bigger is better for arts-related organizations in the Civic Arts District, the Planning Commission has decided.

Privately owned buildings dedicated to arts activities in the Civic Arts District could be built taller than the 12-foot, one story maximum now permitted if a commission recommendation is approved by the City Council.

The commission voted 4-0 last month to modify height restrictions in the arts-oriented district.

The district is centered on Laguna Canyon Road in downtown Laguna where the Laguna Playhouse, Festival of Arts, Sawdust Art Festival and Art-A-Fair facilities are located.

It may be expanded in the future to include the Laguna College of Art & Design.

The proposed height modification would allow the same 36-foot maximum already approved for public buildings in the arts district.

The increased height would be permitted only for structures used by non-profit arts organizations, arts-related firms (specifically graphic arts design and film production firms), student housing, and artist live-work projects.

Commissioner Anne Johnson said she has reservations about allowing taller buildings in the area.

“Language in the proposed findings for granting the height reflects the intent and purpose of the Civic Arts District,” Commissioner Johnson said. “We have a concern about a tunnel effect on Laguna Canyon Road, which is the last thing in the world we want.”

Commission Chair Linda Dietrich and Johnson, immediate past chair of the commission, will review the text of the proposed planning changes before the recommendations are submitted to the City Council for review.