Newhall's Evolution: The Hartwell Mixed-Use Project Expansion Takes Center Stage

Exciting developments are underway in Old Town Newhall as the City of Santa Clarita City Council recently considered a significant modification to the Hartwell Mixed-Use Project, officially known as Master Case 25-089. This project promises to bring a fresh wave of residential and commercial vitality to the heart of the city, particularly at the bustling intersection of Main Street, Market Street, and Railroad Avenue.

A Glimpse at the Original Vision

The journey for the Hartwell project began on May 13, 2025, when the City Council first approved Master Case 24-134. This initial approval laid the groundwork for a five-story, 52-foot tall mixed-use building that would feature 78 apartment units and 5,223 square feet of commercial space. It also entailed the demolition of several existing structures, including the Mac’s Pool Supply building, the Horseshoe on Main building (formerly Soundsations), and the historic Masonic Lodge/Courthouse. Efforts were even made to preserve specific historic elements, such as holding cell bars from the Masonic Lodge/Courthouse.

The Bold New Chapter: Master Case 25-089

Fast forward to June 12, 2025, when Serrano Development Group submitted an application to expand this already ambitious project. The proposed modification, which was deemed complete on July 28, 2025, will now incorporate the adjacent KHTS Radio Station property, necessitating its demolition. This expansion is a substantial 25% increase from the original project.

Here’s what the modified project will bring to Old Town Newhall:

• Increased Residential Units: The project will now feature 98 apartment units, adding 20 more homes to the vibrant neighborhood.
• Expanded Commercial Space: The commercial floor area will grow to 6,300 square feet, an increase of 1,077 square feet.
• More On-Site Parking: The total on-site parking stalls will increase to 158, providing 36 additional spaces within one subterranean and first-floor levels.

The architectural style and height of the building will remain consistent with the original approval, maintaining a five-story, 52-foot profile. Commercial storefronts will extend along Main Street, with residential units occupying the upper floors, oriented around a central courtyard on the second level.

A Strategic Location and Smart Parking Solutions

The Hartwell project is ideally situated within the Arts & Entertainment (AE) zone of the Old Town Newhall Specific Plan (OTNSP). This area is specifically designed to foster a mixed-use, walkable neighborhood with commercial activities at ground level and residences above. Its location directly across from the Jan Heidt Newhall Metrolink Station makes it a prime example of a transit-oriented development.

To address parking needs, the project leverages Assembly Bill 2097 (AB 2097), which generally prohibits cities from imposing parking minimums on projects within a half-mile of major transit stops, provided there isn't a significant negative impact on existing parking. A revised parking demand study confirmed the adequacy of the proposed parking:

• Residential Parking: The project will provide 158 on-site stalls, equating to a 1.61 stalls per unit ratio.
• Commercial Parking: This requirement will be met through the OTNSP's Parking In-Lieu Fee Program, with the applicant paying $87,826.50 for the 15 required spaces.
• Guest Parking: The estimated 25 guest spaces will be accommodated by available on-street parking, which the study showed would still have a surplus of 20 spaces even after accounting for the project's peak demand.

Environmental Considerations and Future Outlook

Crucially, the project is exempt from additional review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) because it aligns with and complies with all mitigation measures established in the OTNSP Final Environmental Impact Report (FEIR). This streamlined environmental approval ensures the project moves forward efficiently while adhering to established environmental standards.

The City Council's recommended action includes conducting a public hearing and adopting a resolution to approve Master Case 25-089, subject to revised Conditions of Approval. This approval reflects the project's consistency with the city’s General Plan, promoting essential mixed-use development, diverse housing options, and walkable neighborhoods. Financially, the project will not impact the General Fund, as the applicant is responsible for various development impact fees.

The expansion of the Hartwell Mixed-Use Project is a testament to Santa Clarita's ongoing commitment to sustainable growth and vibrant community development, promising a dynamic addition to Old Town Newhall.