In Novato, city leaders just took a step to unlock more permitted uses at the McPhail’s property on Hanna Ranch Road. They’re hoping this move will spark local job growth while still keeping the character of Marin County’s urban edges near the Highway 101/37 interchange.
On March 24, the Novato City Council unanimously approved a resolution to amend the site’s master plan. Now, light industrial office uses are allowed in addition to what was already permitted, marking a measured update to this 4.9-acre property that’s seen a full redevelopment in recent years.
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Novato approves expanded uses at McPhail’s property near the 101/37 interchange
After sitting idle for two decades as a concrete batching plant, the complex was redeveloped in 2021. It’s now zoned as a planned district area and contains three buildings.
Two buildings are currently in use. Building B is empty at the moment, but it’s set to house a partial tenancy by the Marin County Fire Department and Prado’s Landscaping.
This decision to broaden the master plan’s use categories shows Marin County’s push to blend thoughtful planning with the market’s demand for flexible, skilled manufacturing and office space. There’s a sense that the region is trying to be practical, but also forward-thinking, which isn’t always easy.
Property owner representative Casey Baxter pointed out that the previous, narrower use categories often kept desirable tenants out. Not only did that limit potential job creation, but it also meant less tax revenue for the city.
The amended plan aims to fill the remaining space with tenants like Snake Craft Custom Cabinetry, a millwork and cabinet business that couldn’t get in before due to permitting restrictions. Baxter argued these tenants bring quality jobs and skilled manufacturing opportunities, and they don’t create heavy traffic or big industrial impacts.
Community stakeholders had their say, too. Resident Derek Knell expressed strong support for the changes.
The Novato Chamber of Commerce, represented by Dale Kline, emphasized the potential for economic vitality and responsible planning. City officials said the change feels timely and fits with what’s actually happening along the corridor that links Novato with San Rafael and Corte Madera.
The master plan amendment — what it actually changes
The amendment to the McPhail’s site’s master plan officially adds light industrial office uses to the list of permitted activities. The site, a 4.9-acre parcel with three buildings, sits right by the Highway 101/37 interchange—a corridor that sees steady traffic from Marin’s north county communities heading toward Larkspur and Mill Valley.
This change aims to preserve neighborhood values while opening up opportunities for local manufacturers, designers, and service-oriented firms. These types of businesses tend to operate with lighter traffic and environmental impacts than traditional heavy industry.
Officials say they’ll coordinate Building B’s interim and future uses with county and city planning processes. They want to make sure growth stays sustainable and fits in with surrounding neighborhoods—an important thing for San Rafael commuters and folks in San Anselmo, Ross, and Fairfax who count on a calm, well-planned corridor into central Marin.
Community voices, economic impact, and what comes next
Beyond the immediate tenants, this decision points to a bigger direction for mid-county development. Towns like Novato and nearby cities keep trying to balance economic growth with concerns about the environment and traffic.
The chamber’s support highlights local buy-in for a more thoughtful approach to growth. They want to avoid overbuilding while still making the most of existing infrastructure and the site’s easy access to major transit routes.
- Potential tenant: Snake Craft Custom Cabinetry could bring skilled manufacturing and design jobs to the area.
- The Marin County Fire Department and Prado’s Landscaping will partially occupy Building B, helping meet public safety and utility needs.
- There’s hope for more local tax revenue and new jobs—without causing major traffic headaches or heavy industrial impacts for nearby neighborhoods.
Marin County keeps tweaking its growth strategy. The McPhail’s amendment feels like a real-world example of how small, business-friendly zoning changes might boost local jobs while keeping the unique character that families in Marin City neighborhoods—like San Rafael, Larkspur, Mill Valley, and Tiburon—really value.
Right in Novato, this kind of careful recalibration could inspire similar updates along other Marin corridors, including the 101/37 corridor near Santa Venetia and Greenbrae’s expanding business spots.
What comes next? Tenant selection, traffic studies, and more community oversight will play a big role. It’s about finding a balanced path for Novato’s economy—and honestly, for all of Marin County.
Here is the source article for this story: Novato to expand permitted uses at commercial site
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