As expected, the Redding City Council voted unanimously to permit the construction of a new Costco at the corner of South Bonnyview and Bechelli Lane. A special meeting Monday reaffirmed the council’s decision during last week’s regular meeting. The project has been delayed for more than a decade by legal challenges brought by a coalition of neighboring property owners off Bechelli Lane, but City Attorney Barry Dewalt is confident that those efforts have been exhausted and no further legal barriers remain. A petition initiative backed by Costco received well over the 5,600 signatures needed to qualify if for a special election and the council had a choice of putting it to the voters or passing it themselves, and Monday they opted for direct approval. The 25 acres is currently undeveloped and is occupied by a high canopy of Ghost Pine, Live Oak and other trees. Bechelli Lane ran through the property long ago, but it’s since been reclaimed by overgrowth. The “River Crossing Marketplace” will include a 152,000 square foot Costco, including a gas station with up to 30 fueling positions and around 70,000 square feet of other businesses. The ordinance allowing ground to be broken takes effect in 30 days.