Construction of "Chapel of Grace" at Valley State Prison for Women, Chowchilla, California
Summary
SCH Number
2008108357
Public Agency
California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation
(CDCR)
Document Title
Construction of "Chapel of Grace" at Valley State Prison for Women, Chowchilla, California
Document Type
NOE - Notice of Exemption
Received
Posted
10/24/2008
Document Description
The project consists of the construction of an approximately 6,725-square-foot chapel building at Valley State Prison for Women (VSPW). The new building will be an infill project within the existing secure perimeter of VSPW, and will be located in the southeastern portion of the institution between two existing buildings (a small existing chapel and a visitor's center). The one-story building will be Type ll-A construction, and will include a lobby, a sanctuary with associated chancel, storage areas, a mechanical/ electrical room, and staff inmate restrooms. Other elements of the construction project will include remodeled landscaping in the adjacent courtyard area, and relocation of walkways to accommodate the footprint of the new building.
The purpose of the project is to provide an all-faith place of worship in order to facilitate the spiritual transformation of inmates at VSPW. The project has no potential to increase the inmate population at VSPW.
Contact Information
Name
John Sharp
Agency Name
California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation
Contact Types
Lead/Public Agency
Phone
Location
Cities
Chowchilla
Counties
Merced
Notice of Exemption
Exempt Status
Categorical Exemption
Type, Section or Code
Class 3, CEQA Guidlines Section
Reasons for Exemption
Continued: 15303 (New Construction)
The proposed project consists of the installation of an infill building at an existing institution, making it a Class 3 project exempt under CEQA (CEQA Guidelines 15303). Class 3 projects consist of "construction and location of limited numbers of new, small facilities or structures." All necessary public services are already present at the project site, and the surrounding area is not environmentally sensitive.
Disclaimer: The document was originally posted before CEQAnet had the capability to host attachments for the public. To obtain the original attachments for this document, please contact the lead agency at the contact information listed above. You may also contact the OPR via email at state.clearinghouse@opr.ca.gov or via phone at (916) 445-0613.