Historic Agreement on Parkland

For drivers passing through the coastal areas of Orange County, the breathtaking expanses of Laguna Canyon provide respite from the daily commute and inspiration during the occasional visit.

This area also has been a recurring focal point of land-use discussions during the past decade. The controversial San Joaquin Hills toll road cut a swath of pavement through some of the canyon’s pristine hillsides, providing traffic relief for congested Orange County freeways even as it angered environmentalists. A separate proposal for residential development in the canyon environs prompted protest and compromise.

Through all these impassioned discussions, the establishment of a wilderness preserve bordered by Laguna Beach, Newport Beach and Irvine stands as one of the most significant set-asides of land in county history. Recently, the Board of Supervisors approved plans for the Laguna Coast Wilderness Park.

The immediate significance of the vote is that at least part of the preserve, previously out of reach of ordinary visitors, could be opened to the public within a year. This is a wonderful development for future residents too.

However, making the park more accessible will not be cheap; it will cost $3.9 million to install trail markers, hire additional park rangers and install parking facilities, restrooms and a nature center. But from a cost and benefit perspective, these magnificent preserves will be increasingly important as the county becomes more urbanized. Improving access means that residents will not have to be satisfied only with knowing that undisturbed land exists.

The bankruptcy had put these plans on hold until now. The realignment of Laguna Canyon Road will have to be done. Plans for the nature center are tied to that effort, but at least some of the area may be opened in six to nine months. Work also will be done to connect some 44 miles of trails. Entry points are slated for Laguna Canyon Road, where there will be parking spots.

The approval provides a critical link for a continuous greenbelt of open space in the region. It includes nearby Crystal Cove State Park, Aliso and Wood Canyons Regional Park and undeveloped land in Irvine. The county is to be congratulated on its foresight. It is especially noteworthy that an effort is being made to preserve the natural interior while access is improved.

The efforts of various civic groups and volunteers also have contributed mightily to open space preservation.