by Sarah DeMaranville
Geneseo Current
A proposed 8,000-square-foot welding and metal fabrication facility on Chicago Street has moved one step closer to approval following a public hearing Monday, October 12.
The Geneseo Plan/Zoning Board recommended that the City Council approve a conditional use permit and Highway Corridor Overlay District (HCOD) permit for the proposed RokCo Fabrication facility, subject to several requirements.
The recommendation is contingent upon project applicant Ryan Rokis complying with established building standards and zoning codes and submitting additional documentation before the City Council considers final approval.
According to information provided by the City, the applicant must submit the following:
Building plans: Architectural or engineering drawings detailing the proposed facility.
Signage and lighting plans: Plans for any freestanding signage or exterior lighting on the property, consistent with HCOD requirements.
Parking and driveway plans: Plans for paved parking areas, driveways, and access to the property from Chicago Street.
The Highway Corridor Overlay District establishes additional development standards, including requirements governing signage and lighting.
The proposed facility would house welding and metal fabrication operations. The project has also been presented as a potential source of skilled-trades employment and apprenticeship opportunities in Geneseo.
Next Steps
The City anticipates bringing the proposal before the Geneseo City Council at its November 10, 2026, meeting, provided the applicant submits all requested plans beforehand.
At that meeting, the Council could consider final approval of the conditional use and HCOD permits.
Monday's recommendation does not constitute final project approval. The proposal remains subject to City Council consideration and compliance with applicable building and zoning requirements.
