Former Chemoil Refinery

Signal Hill, California

About this Project

RE | Solutions, in partnership with Xebec Realty, acquired the former Chemoil Refinery property and three adjoining City lots located in Signal Hill, CA. The acquisition closed on October 12, 2017. This property covers over eight acres and is located at 21st and Walnut Streets in the City of Signal Hill, California.

The property was formerly the site of an oil refinery, which began operations in 1923. Refinery operations ceased in 1994, and demolition took place in 1997 and 1998. The property was put up for sale shortly after completion of the demolition and installation of an interim remedial system to treat the soil and groundwater contamination on site. Multiple offers were made on the property; however, none of the previous prospective purchasers were able to resolve the environmental issues and create a development plan that the City of Signal Hill would approve.

The property is zoned for industrial and commercial uses. Although there is some residential development in the vicinity of the property, the immediately surrounding area is primarily commercial, light manufacturing, with some civic and institutional uses. RES believed that small industrial flex- space buildings with some office space was the most appropriate use for the property, which conformed to the existing zoning and the City’s desired development scenario. The cleanup that has been approved by the Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) will support a light industrial or commercial reuse.RES entered into a California Land Reuse and Revitalization Act (CLRRA) Agreement with the RWQCB that sets forth a response plan for completing the remaining clean up. The CLRRA agreement will provide a covenant not to sue to the purchaser after the response plan is implemented and other requirements of the agreement are met.

The Signal Hill Planning Commission unanimously approved a development plan for the property that provides for approximately 150,000 SF of for-sale industrial buildings. CEQA certification is expected in Q2021 with groundbreaking expected in Q2 2022.