Orange County development continues to draw scrutiny ahead of construction

A housing development planned to be built near Orange is drawing controversy, even after the number of homes has been slashed by about 90% over decades of debate.

Orange Heights has long been proposed for the site, though developer Irvine Company has pared down the project, which once planned for about 12,000 homes but is now whittled down to about 1,200.

Opponents — even some who say they support building more housing — think this project is the wrong solution to the long-running problem of California’s housing shortage.

“We’re not against development, but this is not the sort of development that’s actually going to serve those who need housing,” said Joel Robinson of the No Orange Heights Campaign. “It’s not the sort of development that’s going to serve folks who want to take advantage of public transit.

Opponents are also worried about wildfires and the impact on the environment, including wildlife corridors.

However, the project received all needed approvals back in 2016, and Jamie Yoshida, executive vice president of the Irvine Company, said they’re “pleased the Orange Heights vision is now coming to fruition.”

“Over 90% of the land has been preserved for public enjoyment and a collection of single-family homes will offer a unique outdoor lifestyle connected to miles of equestrian, hiking and biking trails,” Yoshida said.

Construction is expected to start sometime next month, though it will likely be years before anyone can move in.

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