Developer Must Make Room for 80-Foot Tree

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO —  A developer has gained Planning Commission approval to build an 80-bed senior housing center, but will have to change some designs to save an 80-foot-tall eucalyptus tree.

To preserve the tree, possibly planted in the early 1900s, Birtcher Senior Properties will need to move the center’s entranceway by about 20 feet.

The plans allow the removal of other trees, including 11 Mexican fan palms, a 40-foot pine and 11 eucalyptus trees. Most of the trees will be replanted at the site, Planning Director Tom Tomlinson said.

Although the city has deemed the multi-trunked eucalyptus worthy of protection under its Tree Preservation Code, the developer is conducting a study to make sure the altered plans do not create a safety hazard.

Construction of Casa Paloma, a 57,800-square-foot Spanish Revival-style building, will start later this year at 27221 Paseo Espada. The home, including 27 units for residents with Alzheimer’s disease, is expected to open next year.