Enloe expansion endorsed

Enloe Medical Center has moved a step closer to expanding off-campus with the Chico Planning Commission unanimously approving plans for a medical office building on East Avenue.

The City Council must authorize the project, which requires a general plan land use amendment, rezone, use permit, architectural design approval and ratification of an environmental declaration. To the plan as presented (see tinyurl.com/EnloeBuilding), commissioners recommended additional conditions for fencing and maintenance at their meeting last Thursday (July 19).

The three-story structure—located a quarter-mile west of The Esplanade, next to the Enloe Rehabilitation Center—would encompass 126,000 square feet and house a primary care clinic, prompt care and multiple specialists. The goal is to divert outpatient and nonemergency care from the hospital site.