Update

Follow-up on the news

IRVINE

Lower Peters Canyon Development OKd

Issue: Development of the unincorporated area between Irvine’s Northwood Village and Tustin Ranch, part of Irvine Co.’s Lower Peters Canyon project. The company proposes to build about 8,000 homes, three commercial centers and a business park in the 1,400-acre residential and commercial development. Irvine Co. has said it will give the county 16.5 acres for a historical park along with six of the original Irvine Ranch farm buildings.

Background: The city’s historical society and Northwood residents argued that Irvine Co. should create a 100-acre historical park and preserve all 51 of the turn-of-the-century ranch buildings.

Development: The Orange County Board of Supervisors on May 2 approved Irvine Co.’s development plan, which will result in the removal of two-thirds of the eucalyptus trees that were planted during the early 1900s to create windbreaks for the surrounding farmland. Irvine Co. officials say completion of the development will take at least 10 years.

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IRVINE

Honorary Naming of Stadium Approved

Issue: The honorary naming of Ryan Lemmon Stadium at Windrow Community Park in Irvine.

Background: Community residents formed a committee to name a 400-seat baseball stadium at the park after Ryan Lemmon, a Woodbridge High School baseball star who died at age 19 in a traffic accident last September. He was returning to Irvine from a visit with friends at the University of Arizona. Lemmon, a center fielder and relief pitcher, was a varsity player for all four years at Woodbridge, where he set seven school records. He also played for one year at Pepperdine University.

Development: The City Council approved the honorary naming of the baseball stadium. The Irvine Unified School District board had previously approved the stadium name. The park is jointly owned and operated by city and school district. Council members also recommended that the city establish a memorial for all Irvine children who have died.

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NEWPORT BEACH

City Approves Bolsa Park Plan

Issue: Creation of Bolsa Park

Background: Residents who live near Bolsa Avenue and Newport Boulevard have lobbied city officials for about three years to convert a closed street in a pocket park. The City Council approved the concept late last year and told staff to proceed with plans.

Development: The council has approved a specific plan including a small lawn area, planters, benches, tables, lights, trees and a tot lot. The project will cost an estimated $150,000 and should be completed by October.

--COMPILED BY RUSS LOAR AND HOLLY J. WAGNER