REPORT TO THE HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
November 24, 2025
FROM: JENNIFER CLARK, Director
Planning and Development Department
BY: ASHLEY ATKINSON, Assistant Director
Planning and Development Department
SUBJECT
Title
Hearing to consider application B25-03423 for fa?ade renovations to the Rosenberg Brothers Packing Warehouse located at 1844 S Cherry Ave. (Assessor Parcel Number: 467-020-14).
1. APPROVE - Application B25-03423 for fa?ade renovations at 1844 S Cherry Ave.
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
On March 21, 2025, Garrett Wellman of ARCO/Murray submitted application B25-03423 on behalf of Broad Reach Retail Partners. Staff review of B25-03423 reflected that the application consisted of interior upgrades for HVAC, access and circulation; and improvements to the exterior of the building, including new glazing; replacement doors, window coverings, and metal canopies; and paint. The Historic Preservation Commission held a hearing on June 23, 2025 and approved B25-03423 with conditions. The Commission also recommended the property for designation as a local historic resource, which was approved by City Council on October 16, 2025.
On November 7, 2025, it was observed that unpermitted demolition of the brick spandrels was taking place. Because the brick spandrels are a character-defining feature, building permit application B25-03423 has been returned to the Commission for further review.
BACKGROUND
The building at 1844 S. Cherry is a three-story, 217,833 SF warehouse constructed in approximately 1918 by the Rosenburg Brothers and Company of San Francisco. Its original use was as a fruit packing facility that employed thousands of Fresno residents for several decades. Per the 2025 resource inventory form (Exhibit A), the building is reinforced concrete of a post and beam construction. The multi-light iron sash windows are covered with painted corrugated metal sheets, but original windows are evident where the coverings are not secure. Original...
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