The Irvine Company has announced plans to establish the city’s “largest nature park” as part of its reimagining of the Oak Creek Golf Course, actively seeking community input on the design of this natural area.
Recently, the real estate firm revealed its intention to designate over 50 acres of open, natural parkland from the privately-owned golf course, which spans 193 acres. Officials stated that the housing component of the proposal has also been reduced. Meanwhile, a local residents’ group is advocating for a public vote on the matter.
The proposed nature preserve aims to complete the Jeffrey Open Space Trail, providing a continuous route linking Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve and Quail Hill Nature Preserve. Aspects being considered for the nature park include bridges, streams, meadows, nature trails, woodlands, and a community nature center for events.
“Irvine has always focused on ample open spaces, parks, and trails for residents,” stated Jeff Davis, Senior Vice President of the Irvine Company. “This planned nature park will significantly enhance Irvine’s highly-rated park system and create more recreational opportunities in the heart of the city.”
The remaining part of the golf course is set to feature a “lower-density village,” proposing fewer housing units than the 3,100 previously sought by the Irvine Company. The exact number of homes is still under assessment, according to a spokesperson.
Last year, the Irvine Company sought City Council approval for a residential development that included parks and other amenities, zoning up to 5,000 homes in line with state housing mandates. However, the council hesitated, responding to residents’ concerns about violating a 1988 voter-approved initiative that designated the golf course and surrounding areas as open space.
Coinciding with the company’s new proposal, a resident-led group filed an initiative to reaffirm the 1988 measure, which mandates voter approval for developments on lands marked as open space. While Oak Creek Golf Course is privately owned, it is included in the 1988 initiative as a conservation area. The City Council is currently exploring options on how to proceed with this matter while considering community feedback.
