The Irvine Co.’s Plan for Expanding Newport Center

I recently viewed on cable TV a presentation of the Irvine Co.’s plans for completion of Newport Center. I, like many others, have had concerns about the traffic that will accompany the planned residential and office buildings.

As I viewed the meeting and heard about their plans to address the traffic problems in Newport Beach, I was impressed with the commitment the Irvine Co. demonstrated toward a resolution of both local and regional traffic impacts.

For example, it is anticipated that a least one-third of all traffic currently using Pacific Coast Highway through Corona del Mar will be diverted around Corona del Mar by Pelican Hill Road, a six-lane highway to be constructed by the Irvine Co. They also plan to widen major arterials as required by the City of Newport Beach and will provide landscaping of both Jamboree Road and MacArthur Boulevard.

The completion of Newport Center will bring benefits to our community. Additional office space will allow us to retain our economic vitality, the new cultural arts center will provide an expanded museum and library with plans for an auditorium for use by local groups, and the revitalization and expansion of Fashion Island will allow local residents to shop close to home while adding sales tax revenues to our own city coffers.

The completion of Newport Center will surely add to the pride we all share in our community.

HARLAN ANDERSON

Newport Beach