Design for 4-Acre Park Unveiled

The design for a four-acre park in the Westlake North project was unveiled before the City Council, even though the developer recently proposed replacing the park with a larger one elsewhere.

The council took no action Wednesday, but suggested the developer consider expanding parking to more than the proposed 30 spaces.

The design includes a turf playing field for softball and soccer, as well as a picnic area and a lot for small children to play. The park, though considered small, was planned with youth sports in mind at the urging of the Conejo Sports Federation and other youth groups.

“This is a very active park,” said Lee Newman, a resident and designer of the facility. “And for the first time we’ll have a place for youth to play active sports.”

The developer’s alternative plan to build a larger park is part of a proposal that requires an amendment to the city’s Specific Plan, adopted in 1989. The new proposal would more than double the number of homes permitted, from 179 to 437 single-family homes. The council is expected to consider that proposal at its Nov. 6 meeting.

If the change is approved, a 12-acre park and elementary school would replace the smaller park and be built farther south, near the Ventura Freeway.

Officials said even though the smaller park may be eliminated, the council still needs to proceed with planning because under the city’s rules, completion of a park is required before any homes in the project may be occupied.

“If the Specific Plan is not amended, this park would be required to be constructed in a quick fashion,” Newman said.

The Westlake North project includes residential and commercial space on 130-acres of land bordered by Lindero Canyon Road, Thousand Oaks Boulevard, the city of Agoura Hills to the east and the Ventura Freeway.