An update from the RMA’s Planning Division by Aaron R. Bock, MCRP, JD, LEED AP, Assistant Director of Economic Development & Planning
If you've recently driven up the 99, you may have noticed a new, taller sign rising off Betty Drive in Goshen, just a bit taller than the orange truck at Valley Fuel Travel Plaza Chevron across the way. This sign reflects the Resource Management Agency's (RMA) commitment to efficient, customer-friendly service and speedy permit approvals. Signs like this are more than guideposts—they help foster a sense of place, representing progress and shared pride in the community’s growth. The sign symbolizes the new businesses and amenities developing in Goshen, a testament to what RMA’s skilled staff can achieve when infrastructure and developers are aligned and ready to do business in Tulare County. It’s a reminder of the restaurants, hotels, and services that will enrich the lives of residents, commuters, and visitors.
Sign being installed in Goshen, Ca.
Commercial Development: The large OMNI Development Project at the northeast corner of Betty Dr. and State Route 99 showcases Goshen's transformation:
Goshen Arco / AMPM Gas Station and Truck Center: Featuring food options like Wetzel’s Pretzels, Port O’ Subs, and Sbarro, the center includes a Tesla charging station and a future hydrogen filling station.
Restaurants: Taco Bell and Carl’s Jr. have recently opened, providing more quick dining choices.
Hotels: Comfort Inn & Suites, with 85 rooms, is on the way, while Hilton is exploring a site nearby.
Fast-Tracked Growth: In FY 2023/24, Goshen processed 249 building permit applications, of which 207 were approved, totaling $123 million in construction valuation. Currently, 1,170 units are approved, with RMA’s efficient processes pushing projects forward. Projects like these can often take years to complete in other jurisdictions, but thanks to RMA’s streamlined approach, we’re seeing results in months. RMA staff dedicatedly helps expedite the completion of entitlements, with the environmental review team keeping in stride with the project planners to complete projects in an efficient manner.
Entitlements: These are legal permissions that allow a developer to use land for a specific purpose. They are often issued in the form of permits but can also relate to rezonings or planned unit developments. Getting these approvals quickly means projects can start sooner.
Environmental Review: This is a process that assesses a project's potential environmental impact and determines if it meets environmental standards. By doing this review early and efficiently, projects can avoid long delays.
New eateries and gas stations in Goshen, Ca
Collaborative Infrastructure Support: RMA’s collaboration with the Goshen Community Service District (CSD) and the City of Visalia is an example of how the County of Tulare has paved the way for continued development by ensuring adequate sewer capacity. This coordination allowed projects like those listed below to secure “will serve” letters, a key step in permitting processes.
“Will Serve” Letters: These are commitments from utility providers—like water or sewer companies—saying they’ll serve a new development. They are essential for moving projects forward.
Industrial Development: Goshen’s industrial sector is booming, particularly around Betty Drive:
Penske Truck Facility: A 35-acre site with a warehouse, cleaning facility, and mechanic shop is in design.
Fowler Packing: An 80-acre site in Avila Industrial Park is approved for industrial/commercial use.
Warehousing: Two large warehouses near SR 99 are under construction, adding to Goshen’s industrial landscape.
Residential Development: Goshen is not just a place to work; it's becoming an even more attractive place to live, with several large residential developments underway:
Goshen Village East: Approved in 2015, Phase 1 is completed with 72 affordable housing units that support efforts to provide housing options to unhoused individuals. Phase 4, known as Neighborhood Village, is being developed by Salt & Light and Self-Help Enterprises and includes 56 modular units. The Community Center is also nearing completion. Self-Help Enterprises is beginning the final phase, which will feature 73 single-family residences.
Quest Equity/Darnell Development: Approved in 2020 for 206 units, this project on the south side of Riggin Ave. and the west side of Ave 72 has been updated to include commercial development along its northern edge. Last year, 34 units were built, with 53 permits approved. The final map for future phases is in progress. RMA and Goshen CSD created a landscape and drainage assessment district to help fund Peter Malluch Park, part of Goshen Village West, developed by Self-Help Enterprises.
Cross Creek Bend Smee Homes / Darnell Development: With a 483-unit Tentative Map approved in 2019, Phase 1 and parts of Phase II have already been completed. To date, 99 homes have been sold, and 87 more are under contract. The remaining phases are expected to break ground in 2025, with plans to improve Rd. 64 through a newly formed assessment district.
San Joaquin Homes (Conway/Dias Subdivision): This 320-unit subdivision, approved in February 2024, is entering the final map stage, with the first phase set to begin construction in October 2024. This development has already secured a “will serve” letter, ensuring it is ready to move forward with critical infrastructure in place.
Goshen is Ready for More Growth: These updates make it clear that doing business in Tulare County’s unincorporated communities, like Goshen, is easier than ever. With RMA’s guidance, projects move swiftly, bringing new opportunities for jobs, homes, and amenities that enhance the quality of life of all who live, work, or visit this are of Tulare County.
If you are interested in starting a business, large or small, in Tulare County, please contact the County of Tulare's Economic Development Office by emailing economicdevelopment@tularecounty.ca.gov. For questions about the building permit process, please contact the RMA's Building Permit Center directly by calling (559) 624-7000.
