Panel OKs Plans for Northeast Oxnard Projects

A blueprint for the long-term development of 737 acres of farmland in northeast Oxnard has received the final approval of the city’s Planning Commission.

The Northeast Community Specific Plan, approved unanimously by the commission Thursday, will now go to the City Council for consideration.

If adopted, the plan would allow the construction of 3,075 housing units and enough commercial and industrial projects to create 5,057 jobs. Two middle schools and a high school also would be built, with the city gaining access to the school grounds for use as public parks.

As part of the planning process, an agreement was struck between the three school districts and the area’s 10 landowners that calls for building fees to furnish enough revenues to build the schools.

The extensive plan, which has been under study for three years, regulates building design and specifies how public areas will be landscaped and designed. The plan also requires that 10% of all housing be for low-income residents and another 10% for high-income residents.

The entire project would be built in three phases.

Commissioners praised the goals of the plan, which calls for the development of separate mixed-use “villages” within the area.

“I like the plan,” said Chairman Ralph Schumacher. “I like the mixed-use concept and think it will be good for the city.”

“The northeast community is a milestone for Oxnard and will provide a well-balanced community,” said Commissioner Arthur Lopez.