An architectural rendering of The Station and courtyard.
If all goes as planned, The Station, a 19,350 square-foot mixed-use project at 25A Orinda Way, could break ground before January.
“With our use permit in hand and a great deal of optimism, our team pushes forward to break ground by the years’ end,” said developer Paul Ugenti. The process of obtaining electrical, mechanical, plumbing, foundation and other required permits from the county can take two or more months. Construction begins with an 18-foot pit for the sub-grade garage.
Plans for the development include food, beverage and artisan crafts from around the Bay Area, as well as an exercise facility, Ugenti said. “Our goal is to offer these new retail and restaurant opportunities to local businesses first in the hope we can provide a post-COVID path to success,” he said.
Adjacent to the fitness center, the anchor, Market Hall, will house suites/stalls for artisan retail, pre-packaged and take-out food along with indoor and outdoor courtyard dining areas.
During the June 9 Planning Commission meeting and approval process, Orangetheory Fitness was specifically mentioned as a possible tenant at The Station. Ugenti clarified the application provides the “ability to have a fitness – not a general fitness, but specific to a boutique…something like an Orangetheory.” The scheduled class-oriented business could range from yoga, pilates to cycle, he said.
There are currently eight health and fitness centers in Orinda.
Anytime Fitness opened its doors in Theatre Square May 2019. A global franchise brand, it offers 24/7 access to members and drop-in clients are welcome when staff is on site. “We offer classes too, but we’re a very different model,” said Jami Edgell, general manager. “We’d rather work with them (Orangetheory) as healthy competition is healthy for business.”
In Forma Integral Fitness has been in business since 1986. Tristan Tool and Tiffany Aubrey bought it June 15, 2019.
“The building is beautiful and the project will breathe life into Orinda,” Tool said about The Station. “We wish there was a different type of anchor business as In Forma offers almost the same services and we’re basically next door.
“Orangetheory is a national gimmicky brand, but whatever gets you moving off the sofa, I’m in favor of,” he said.
Michael Karp, owner of the Fourth Bore, said he is excited about the project and, “the city needs more creative and healthy food concepts. Now, we need to connect both sides of town.”
