A large solar canopy is coming to the parking lot of Yosemite Crossings that will greet visitors coming into the town of Mariposa from the south on Highways 49 and 140.
The shopping center, which is also known as Pioneer Village, will have solar panels on the roofs of its two buildings, in addition to the solar canopy in the parking lot.
Property owner Jason Dubberke said the solar canopy will allow cars to park underneath it and will provide shade. He said it will be similar to the solar canopy at his other property, Pioneer Market.
“The cost savings (from solar) are huge,” said Dubberke.
Construction is expected to begin around June 15, Dubberke said.
The businesses in the shopping center — which include Yosemite Liquor, Mariposa Shipping Company and China Station Restaurant — will remain open during construction.
A press release from the county last week anticipates some aesthetic concerns from residents.
“Because Yosemite Crossings is located near Mariposa’s historic district, questions may arise regarding the project and its visual impact,” said the county’s press release.
“This project has been reviewed and permitted by Mariposa County in accordance with applicable building, safety, accessibility and construction standards.”
“California law strongly supports and encourages solar energy development, and local agencies are limited in their ability to restrict qualifying solar installations under state law,” the statement continued.
Mariposa County Interim Building Director, Corrina Miranda, said the project only required a so-called “ministerial permit,” meaning it was “by-right” approval that complied with existing zoning codes and building rules.
Miranda said after conversations with the owner, the builder is expected to make some aesthetic design improvements to the solar canopy, like wood columns, that might blend in more with the town’s historic character.
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