NEWPORT BEACH PLANNING COMMISSION PREVIEW

Here is an item the planning commission will consider today.

BLUFF-TOP CONDOS

The Aerie, a nine-unit luxury condo development planned for Carnation Avenue in Corona del Mar, comes up for a hearing and possibly a vote tonight. Planning commission staff recommend approval but with a few changes.

While some neighbors have said they’ll welcome a new development to replace the existing 60-year-old apartments at the site, others worry that the multi-million-dollar, ocean-view condos will extend too far down the bluff face.

A staff report suggests the project be changed to only extend down the bluff as far as 52 feet above mean sea level, which would eliminate the buildings’ two lower levels and trim 26,000 square feet from the building’s area.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Aerie architect Brion Jeannette has held meetings with neighbors and members of environmental group Stop Polluting Our Newport to try to head off potential opposition to the project, but development on the bluffs is often controversial.

It’s not clear how much developers will agree to reduce the project, but they may have to trim some off if they want the commission’s approval.

Compiled by Alicia Robinson

IF YOU GO

WHAT: Newport Beach planning commission meeting

WHEN: 6:30 p.m. today

WHERE: City Council chambers, City Hall, 3300 Newport Blvd.

INFO: (949) 644-3200 or www.city.newport-beach.ca.us