October 23, 2007

Student housing complex proposed near CSF
A mixed-use development could serve as the gateway to 'the education village district.'
By BARBARA GIASONE
The Orange County Register

FULLERTON — A plan to build a mixed-use development that includes 363 student-oriented residential units near Cal State Fullerton will be considered by the Planning Commission at 7 p.m. Wednesday during a public hearing.

The 6.8-acre property is owned by Hope International University where Chapman and Commonwealth avenues converge.

The developer, JPI of Irvine, has proposed the specific plan for Jefferson Commons that would serve as a gateway to the "education village district" considering the parcel's proximity to Cal State Fullerton, Western Law University, Hope International University and the Southern California College of Optometry.

Project proposals include a four-story structure wrapped around a seven-level parking structure. The ground floor would have 30,000 square feet of commercial space and 12,000 square feet of residential recreation.

Currently, the site has office space in three buildings and two apartment complexes with 79 residential units occupied by a mix of student and non-students.

Following the distribution of a draft environmental impact report, the city received 16 comment letters.

Jeff Greene, who lives across from the proposed project, wrote the council and planning commissioners that he fully supported the project because "the old buildings are unappealing and a poor use of prime property across the street from the university."

"There is an obvious need for more student housing in the area, as well as more retail and food opportunities," Greene wrote. "It is embarrassing how few housing, shopping or eating opportunities there are for students adjacent to the campus."

However, Joyce and Roger Toy, who have lived in a housing tract across from the proposed project since 1959, wrote Planning Commission Chairman Sean Francis that they hope the panel will reject the plan.

The Toys said over the years they have seen the quality of life erode in the neighborhood with larger structures and increasing traffic.

"More and more frequently Chapman Avenue traffic backed up from State College to the 57 freeway," Joyce Toy wrote, "At peak times, it can take multiple signals to move. Compounding this, the city is experiencing water shortages … and we are facing possible rationing. The massive PCC project would further increase water consumption."

If the plan receives commission approval, the request will go to the City Council.

Information: 714-738-6540.