In 2020, when we originally proposed this project, we received an overwhelming amount of support from our community. As owner-operators of the Pioneertown Motel for more than 10 years, we feel we have proven our worthiness as stewards in our beloved Pioneertown. Since applying for this project, we have initiated, completed and reopened two historic restaurants in the area— the Red Dog Saloon and the Copper Room. Our reverence for the High Desert, it’s history, people and culture shows in our work. As we approach the finish line of this process, we have re-engaged our community, read past letters of support and, most importantly, identified key areas of concern. This page focuses on specific concerns raised by our neighbors and community writ large. As residents, just a few blocks from the Pioneertown Motel, we are uniquely empathetic to local sensitivities and aim to set a very high standard for Pioneertown development.
Addressing Community Concerns
Historical Preservation
Community Concern
A handful of residents has expressed angst that the expansion might detract from Pioneertown's historic character and change the visual landscape of this unique desert community.
Our Approach
Historic Site Preservation: The project has been designed with sensitivity to Pioneertown's historic Mane Street
Architectural Harmony: Design inspiration drawn directly from guidance in the Mane Street National Register Historic District recognized by the National Park Service
Visual Integration: The bulk of the project will be positioned behind the existing motel, out of sight from most of town
Authentic Design: Buildings proposed for Mane Street will be in "Old West" style and aligned with existing architecture
Materials Selection: All buildings and materials have been selected to harmonize with Pioneertown's Mane Street structures
Light Pollution
Community Concern
Preserving Pioneertown's dark night skies is essential to residents and the desert environment. This is essential for both locals and visitors, as the night sky is a main draw for all.
Our Approach
Dark Sky Preservation: We adore and understand the Dark Sky of the desert as a very precious resource. As residents ourselves, we deeply understand the value of the dark skies
Dark Sky Standards: Adherence to all Dark Sky standards and even go a step beyond, where safely possible
Discrete Lighting Design: More discrete lighting levels around the property, including downlighting and warm tone bulbs
Minimal Light Trespass: Careful design to prevent light pollution while maintaining safety for guests and locals
Aesthetic Consideration: Lighting designed to for safety and discreet accenting, with full knowledge that there is no better nighttime aesthetic than on open sky full of stars
Community Character
Community Concern
Many residents fear losing Pioneertown's unique small-town character and community feel.
Our Approach
Local Ownership: Continued local ownership and management by long-term community members
Job Creation: New employment opportunities for local residents
Controlled Tourism: Providing supervised, well-managed accommodations as an alternative to unregulated short-term rentals
Community Integration: Design that encourages visitors to respect and appreciate Pioneertown's unique character and history
Economic Sustainability: Supporting a sustainable tourism economy that benefits existing local businesses
Traffic & Parking
Community Concern
Residents worry about increased traffic on Pioneertown's limited roads and potential parking problems, especially given the town’s rapidly increasing popularity.
Our Approach
Limited Traffic Impact: According to our Traffic Study, the project will generate only 18 incoming/outgoing trips per hour in mornings
Manageable Peak Hours: A maximum of 21 incoming/outgoing trips during peak afternoon and evening hours
Exceeding Parking Requirements: San Bernardino parking requirements have been met and substantially exceeded with additional convenience parking, hidden off Mane Street
Discrete Parking Design: Guest parking by rooms with additional parking screened from adjacent properties
Preservation of Rural Character: Careful planning to maintain the character of local roadways while accommodating necessary access
Ecological Design
Community Concern
Residents expressed concern about the ecological impact of a development of this size. Pioneertown is in need of more tourism infrastructure, but it can’t come at a cost to its character.
Our Approach
Ecological Philosophy: Architectural ideologies like Baubiologie and Biophilia form the foundation of our design philosophy
Light Environmental Footprint: Design approach "prompts us to touch the land lightly"
Natural Materials: Commitment to natural non-toxic materials and beautiful natural materials as "de rigueur"
Resource Conservation: Conservation of resources is considered an imperative
Energy Efficiency: Passive solar design incorporated throughout the project
Integration with Nature: Indoor-outdoor living spaces that celebrate the desert environment, not turn away from it
Water & Waste
Community Concern
Residents are concerned about water availability in the desert environment and potential environmental concerns regarding waste management.
Our Approach
Responsible Water Sourcing: Potable water provided via a metered connection
Water Recycling: Grey water from guest rooms and the pool facility will be diverted for landscape irrigation of native, drought-resistant plants
Advanced Wastewater Treatment: Instead of a standard septic system, on-site treatment through a high-performance "package plant" using filtration and anaerobic digestion to pre-treat effluent
Integrated Waste Management: Contracted services for solid waste, compostable food waste, and recycling conveyed off-site
