Council approves 69-home development

Jennifer Kho

COSTA MESA -- The City Council approved a 12-acre Standard Pacific

development Monday and was still considering changes to trails at

Fairview Park at press time.

The Standard Pacific plan includes 69 two-story homes on lots

averaging 5,000 square feet at 1645 Adams Ave.

“This is a transition zone and you will have a very high-quality

development here,” said Councilwoman Heather Somers. “You’re looking at a

good transition from commercial to [low-density housing] to [high-density

housing.] The property is actually zoned for a lot more houses and this

developer has come up with a high-quality project with a lot lower

density. It’s something we should be happy with.”

The Costa Mesa developer reduced the number of homes proposed from 90

to 69 after the City Council rejected the initial plan last spring.

Some residents said the reduction still isn’t enough.

“Sixty-nine homes is still better than 90, but I think they could have

done better than this,” said Costa Mesa resident Robin Leffler. “This is

a big leap into urbanization and I treasure the things that make Costa

Mesa a low-key suburban community.”

Several residents supported the council’s decision, however.

“I think Standard Pacific has gone out of its way to accommodate the

community,” said Costa Mesa resident Sue Thoma, adding that she is

considering buying one of the houses when it is built. “I think the

houses are priced right and the right size.”

The council added one condition to its approval.

Standard Pacific will be required to install landscape medians, and

Segerstrom & Sons has already agreed to split the cost.