CALABASAS : City Seeks Developer to Revamp a Creek

The city of Calabasas is searching for a developer to revamp a portion of Calabasas Creek as part of a plan to bring more businesses into the historic business district.

The city, which put the project out to bid on Friday, hopes to award a contract by next month, when construction is expected to begin, said Community Development Director Steve Harris.

The city altered its original plan, which called for a pedestrian bridge over the creek and walkways along its banks, after residents along nearby Park Sorrento objected.

The residents said they feared that the bridge and walkways would bring trash, noise and crime into their back yards.

They were also upset over reports that the city planned to cut down several large eucalyptus trees along the creek and seize part of their property through eminent domain.

The two sides met recently to talk, and representatives from both sides said they were happy with a compromise that was worked out.

“I think we’re satisfied with the outcome, compared to what it was,” said Arnold Pepper, a member of the Oak Creek Homeowners Assn., which represents homeowners along Park Sorrento.

Harris said the city will cut down several smaller trees along the creek, but that four large eucalyptus trees will remain.

The walkway plans have been scrapped, Harris said, and C.J. Evron, a local businessman who owns property along the creek, never applied for permits to build the bridge.