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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1993-10-26 - AGENDA REPORTS - DOWNTOWN NEWHALL (2)AGENDA REPORT UNFINISHED BUSINESS DATE: October 26, 1993 City Manager Item to be pre�sente b Rich Henderson SUBJECT: DOWNTOWN NEWHALL STUDY PHASE 1: PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PROGRAM FINAL REPORT DEPARTMENT: Community Development BACKGROUND On September 15, 1993, the consultants, Jeff Oberdorfer & Associates and Aguilar & Associates, submitted a draft report of the findings for the Downtown Newhall Public Participation Program that was initiated last February. The majority of the document contains comments from various persons and groups that were interviewed and contains a consensus opinion of action and implementation items for the downtown Newhall area. On September 29, 1993, the Council received the "Draft Report" and received an oral presentation by Jeff Oberdorfer ands Esther Aguilar. Testimony was received from the public who had commented that the process was positive and that the program should be continued to address the concerns and visions that were documented In the report. Submittal of the final report concludes the contractual responsibilities of Jeff Oberdorfer and Associates. ANALYSIS A list of "Start -Up Projects" is Included within the report. The goal of these projects Is to establish short-term projects that will have an Immediate. positive Impact or Initiate long term efforts. Staff has reviewed the report and has the following Information for these possible projects. The chart below Is broken Into four different categories. Staff has estimated a percentage of what may be required by each category to accomplish each project. For example, investigating a sheriff's satellite facility would require a cost of staff's time without a need for hiring outside expertise, using volunteer hours, or spending money beyond staff salary. Other associated costs are Indicated within the last column. "Start Up Projects" PROJECT (non prioritized) STAFF ASSISTANCE OUTSIDE EXPERTISE VOLUNTEER MONETARY (Beyond staff salary) Investigate 100% X (cost of patrol and Sheriff's storefront equipment) office Initiate a bilingual 100% X (cost of patrol on Sheriff's patrol on horseback, and facilities) horseback PROJECT (non STAFF OUTSIDE VOLUNTEER MONETARY (Beyond staff prioritized) ASSISTANCE EXPERTISE salary) Initiate a Downtown 50% 50% Newhall Cultural Arts Program Investigate wall 30% 70% mural location (businesses) Research Installing a 10% 90% X (cost of wall mural) memory wall (consultant) $8,000415,000 Preparing historical 30% 30% 40% X (cost of consultant) documentation (consultant) (Historical Society) Certifying historical 50% 50% X (cost of consultant) structures (consultant) Investigate a signal 100% X (cost of signal) $150,000 at Newhall Ave. and Market St. Increase green time 100% at Market St. and (Review of S.F. Rd. street recon- figuration may be required) Prepare as -built 100% X (cost of preparation of drawings map) Investigate Street 25% 75% X (infrastructure costs) Improvements Initiate additional 100% X (cost of additional street and sidewalk service) clean up Create a parking 10% 45% 45°k "(Co of consultant) district The list below illustrates a ranking order of those projects from the chart.above that would require additional funding beyond staff time, from the most expensive to the least expensive. Staff has estimated that the Sheriff's satellite office would be the most costly. 1. Sheriff's satellite office 2. Bilingual officer on horseback 3. Traffic signal at Market St. 4. Additional street and sidewalk clean up 5. Prepare as -built drawings 6. Create a parking district 7. Prepare historical documentation .2. Please be aware that the cost of staff time may Impact the other services that are presently provided and may cause resources to be redeployed. The cost of staff time would be dependent on the projects that the Council deems appropriate to Initiate. Staff has reviewed the start-up projects while considering potential staff hours and believes the following projects are worth further Investigation and commencement: A) Investigate wall mural locations and research the Installation of a wall. This can be done In a coordinated effort with the Historical Society. The cost of the wall could begin at approximately $8,000.00. B) Investigate a signal at Newhall Avenue and Market Street. Staff could tally the number of vehicle trips to determine whether a signal is warranted. Please note that Market Street has an offset at Newhall Avenue that may be required to be reconfigured for traffic safety purposes. C) Increase "green time" at Market Street and San Fernando Road. Staff could coordinate with Caltrans to Investigate the feasibility of Increasing this time to facilitate pedestrian crossing across San Fernando Road from Market Street. This request was specifically from the seniors in the neighborhood. D) Create a business district. Noted as a "long term" project, this may be feasible based on . the willingness and enthusiasm of the business community during the public participation program. Staff believes that an organizational effort has recently been initiated without the assistance of the City. Staff believes that we could offer technical assistance to create such a district. To facilitate future planning efforts, staff believes that the preparation of as -built drawings could provide a data base that would be useful to assist other future projects such as creating design standards, documenting historic structures, creating a parking district and conducting a specific plan for the area. Staff has Investigated the cost of preparing this map. It entails hiring an outside firm to conduct the aerial surveys and produce the maps at a workable scale. The following are long term projects contained within the report which may be Initiated by the start- up projects. These projects may require additional staff time, consultants, volunteer hours and considerable funding depending on the project "Long Term Projects" (non -prioritized) 1. Preparing a Downtown Newhall Master Plan. 2. Develop a Metro Link Station. 3. Underground Utilities. 4. Create additional Senior Housing. 5. Install curbs, gutters, and sidewalks. 6. Construct drainage improvements within Newhall Creek. 7. Create an Historic Preservation Ordinance. 8. Develop Incentives for private sector preservation of historic sites and structures. 9. Create circulation options, which may Include a one-way couplet, developing circulation on Railroad Avenue, and decreasing the number of lanes on San Fernando Road. 10. Create a Business Improvement District. 11. Establish a Housing Authority. .3- The report Indicates that a consensus was reached by the participants that the issue of crime should be addressed as soon as possible. Associated costs for addressing this concern are related to the cost of additional patrol and obtaining a satellite location and equipment. Many of these projects required further cost analysis to determine exact budgetary impacts. This can be part of the mid -year budget review that, Is being Initiated. Staff believes that the Implementation of any of the start-up projects or longer term projects would address the concerns and visions cited In the report, Including those cited in the workshops, key person Interviews, and focus groups. RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends that the City Council: 1) Receive and file the Downtown Newhall Public Participation Program Final Report. 2) Direct staff to prepare a scope of work and proposed budget for midyear consideration for a Phase II Implementation Program. 3) Direct staff to proceed with initiating and complete the following projects by June of 1994: a) Investigate a wail mural location and research installing a memory wall. b) Investigate a signal at Market Street and Newhall Avenue. c) Investigate Increasing "green time" on Market Street and San Fernando Road. d) Investigate creating a business Improvement district. Final Report counciUagnew.apv -4- .-DRAFT- Citizen Participation Program for Downtown Newhall Prepared for City of Santa Clarita California 0 Jeff Oberdorfer & Associates, AIA Architects/Community Planners With Aguilar & Associates Land Use Planners September 1993 Citizen Participation Program for Downtown Newhall CONTENTS Newhall (From City General Plan) 1 Credits 1 Executive Summary 3-14 • Newhall "Attributes" 5 • Description of Process 5-9 • Summary of Newhall Ideas 10-12 • Start-up Projects 13 • Consultant Recommendations 14 Options and Ideas from Community Workshop of August 19, 1993 15-44 • San Fernando Road Options Worksheet 17 • Metrolink Stations Options Worksheet 18 • Newhall Land Use Ideas 19-20 • Newhall Design Ideas 23 • Newhall Infrastructure Ideas 24 • Newhall Marketing Ideas 25-26 • Newhall Housing Ideas 27 • Newhall Circulation & Parking Ideas 28-29 • Newhall Social & Cultural Ideas 30 • Spanish Language Version of Idea Sheets 31-44 Focus Groups (Listed by date of Workshop) 45-68 • Santa Clarita Valley Chamber of Commerce Economic Development 47-48 Committee Focus Group • North of Lyons Focus Group 49-50 • Santa Clarita Organization for Planning the Environment Focus 51-52 Group • Downtown Newhall Merchants Focus Group 53-55 • City Staff Focus Group 56-58 • Senior Citizen's Center Focus Group 59-60 • Historic Preservation Focus Group 61-63 • Residents East of San Fernando Road Focus Group (East Newhall) 64-66 Citizen Participation Program for Downtown. Newhall . CONTENTS • Community Service Organizations Focus Group 67-68 IV. Surveys 69-72 • Collated Responses to 50 Surveys Completed by Area Residents Who Live Adjacent to but Outside the Study Area V. Key Person/Group Interviews 73-94 • Collated Summaries of all Interviews 74-76 • Interview #1/Business Group 77 • Interview #2/Social Service Group 78 • Interview #3/Social Service Group 79 • Interview #4/Social Service Group 81 • Interview #5/Social Service Group 82 • Interview #6/Business in Study Area 83-84 • Interview #7/Business in Study Area 85 • Interview #8/Business Group 86 • Interview #9/Business Group 87 • Interview #10/Staff or Elected Official 88 • Interview #11/Staff or Elected Official 89 • Interview #12/Resident in Study Area 91 • Interview #13/Resident in Study Area 92 • Interview #14/Business in Study Area 93 • Interview #15/City Cultural Arts Coordinator 94 VI. List of Maps • Project Area Workshop Base Map 2 • Summary of Working Group Comments from Community Workshop 16 • Community Workshop, Working Group #3 Consensus Map 21 • Community Workshop, Working Group #5 Consensus Map 22 • Community Workshop, Base Map with Collated Comments from 46 Focal Groups and Key Person Interviews • Historic Preservation Focus Group, Preliminary Historic Structures .63 and Pieces Map Newhall (Excerpted from the City of Santa Clarita General Plan) Newhall was the earliest permanent settlement in the Valley, established in 1876 in conjunction with the construction of the Southern Pacific Railroad. This area was a typical western town of oil, mining, and railroad workers. Newhall was also the residence of silent film star William S. Hart, whose 300 -acre ranch, now a County park and museum, is a tourist attraction visited annually by thousands. The community of Newhall contains many notable Hollywood movie sets and is the site of the Western Walk of Fame. Some of the western relics in downtown Newhall include the "Tom Mix cottages" used as housing for the early motion picture industry, the American Theater (originally the Tumbleweed Theater) designed by S. Charles Lee (architect of Grauman's Chinese Theater). Newhall Avenue, the site of many Tom Mix adventures, was once known as "Mixville." Heritage Junction at 24107 San Fernando Road has been set aside for the preservation of historic local structures. Much of the early commercial development in the downtown Newhall area occupies single -story older buildings and serves neighborhoods along San Fernando Road. Commercial development along Lyons Avenue, with some exceptions, follows the common style of the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s and includes numerous small and midsize wood and stucco strip centers. Recent attempts have been made to improve the aesthetics of the commercial area by building community shopping centers that incorporate historic elements of the area. Examples of building styles include Spanish buildings with terra cotta tile roofs, a Victorian -style shopping center, and western -theme buildings. Along the southern end of San Fernando Road are several small, one-story, older neighborhood commercial uses. Further to the north, along San Fernando Road adjoining the railroad tracks, are blighted industrial developments. Prior to the completion of the interstate system, San Fernando Road was a principal link in the historic circulation system between the San Joaquin Valley and the Los Angeles Basin. The roadway still serves as one of the few traffic arteries within the city. Credits A sincere thank you to all those individuals, groups, and organizations that participated in the Downtown Newhall Participation Program, by attending workshops, hosting or organizing meetings, or by contacting consultants or staff with your ideas. Department of Community Development • Lynn M. Hams Deputy City Manager Community Development • Richard A. Henderson City Planner • Kevin Michel Senior Planner • Michael A. Rubin Associate Planner, now with Department of Public Works • Alex Vasquez Assistant Planner Consultant Team Jeff Oberdorfer & Associates, INC., AIA Jeff Oberdorfer Principal in Charge Jonathan Lucas Project manager • Aguilar & Associates Esther Aguilar Land Use Planning consultant E3 WORKSHOP 13 ❑ INTERVFOCUS GROUP O CONSULTANT SUGGESTED STUDY AREA O FIELD DOWNTOWN N E W H A L L PROJECT AREA WORKSHOP BASE MAP JEHObmdorM rkAsson nMPch ur9CME 29,30alDrrll�p PARTICIPATION PROGRAM ��Ccmwk� JOA SANTA CLARITA, CA 91353 Executive Summary This report is the result of a professionally facilitated public participation process for downtown Newhall, conducted over a six month period from April through September 1993. Project goals included: The facilitation of community involvement in a participation process adapted to the special needs of Newhall that can be used as a basis for beginning a more detailed planning process. 2. The identification of community concerns and issues to be used to begin a process for creation a plan for the future of the downtown Newhall area. 3. Where feasible, to obtain consensus on issues. 4. The publication of the results of the participation process and recommendation on how to proceed with the next phase of the planning process in a final report. This report: (1) Summarizes the participation process, (2) Recommends a series of "start up" projects, (3) Provides recommendations that will assist in developing the framework for the next step in the revitalization of downtown Newhall and (4) Provides back up information on key issues that local citizen -participants feel are critical to the future success of Newhall. Of critical importance to all segments of the Santa Clarita Valley community, who participated during this process, is the issue of public safety in Newhall. Participants emphasized that "making the area safe" was the foundation for a future Newhall revitalization. The most popular first efforts in this endeavor, supported overwhelming by participants were: (1) A sheriffs storefront office and foot patrol, and (2) A bilingual horseback sheriffs patrol. There was also consensus reached on the desire.for a "tum of the century" design theme, building on Newhall's history and the tourist draw of Hart Park and Heritage Junction. Period lighting supporting the historic theme and providing a sense of safety was also supported. "Developing a walking downtown" was also a major theme of the workshops. Ideas supporting a more pedestrian Newhall included: (1) Adding trees and Benches, (2) Improving the visual appearance and safety of San Fernando Road, (3) Slowing downtown traffic on San Fernando Road, and (4) "Make Newhall a destination rather than a route." Newhall's special relationship to Santa Clarita Valley development was stressed: "Santa Clarita has no downtown; make Newhall the city's downtown." The issue of overcrowding in East Newhall and the deterioration of housing stock was a source of continuous community frustration. A popular solution to this situation was the formation of a local housing authority or non-profit group to manage rental units and thereby more effectively control the number of persons occupying each unit. Another issue related to Public safety, neighborhood deterioration, and improved neighborhood appearance, which received enthusiastic support, was the installation of curb, gutter, and sidewalk, throughout the Newhall Area. Participants believed that curb, gutter and sidewalk installation would: (1) Improve neighborhood appearance by controlling haphazard parking, (2) Stop erosion from poor area drainage, and (3) Improve public safety through the addition of sidewalks and separation of pedestrians form parked vehicles. Business owners stressed the need for more and safer parking in downtown Newhall and that additional parking had to be integrated with any revitalization strategies, storefront improvements or San Fernando Road improvements. In addition, business owners were supportive of investigating a Business Improvement District to assist in funding beneficial downtown improvements. Participants supported improved linkage between downtown Newhall and the 3 area colleges and 3 public schools on Newhall Avenue. Developing retail facilities, restaurants, a laundramat/coffee house and other uses which would draw students from Cal. Arts, Masters College ,and College of the Canyons, received support. Developing a safe pedestrian link to downtown Newhall from Newhall Avenue north of Lyons which serves the 3 public schools, Boys' and Girls' Club and Newhall Park was also encouraged. Worksheets were prepared on potential options for San Fernando Road and for the possible location of a Metrolink station for Newhall. These were discussed at the August 19th consensus workshop. In general, participants requested more specific information prior to formulating decisions on both issues. These issues will be discussed in more depth in the recommendations section. Community outreach was an important component to the citizen participation process, particularly in relation to obtaining input from the area's hispanic population. A mailing to all Spanish surname residents and property owners was developed in 4 preparation of an East Newhall workshop which was facilitated in Spanish. Several key person interviews were conducted with Hispanic community members. Workshop idea sheets and worksheets were available in Spanish and a follow-up workshop for Spanish speaking residents was facilitated subsequent to the August 19th consensus workshop. Newhall "Attributes.' The public participation process identified existing places and settings that people in Santa Clarita feel are special about Newhall. These Favorite Places included (not prioritized): A. Newhall Park B. Hart Park C. Heritage Junction D. Schools (having three in one area) E. Newhall Hardware F. Way Station Coffee Shop G. Boys' and Girls' Club In addition; Newhall's attributes or positive qualities were identified as (not prioritized): A. Convenience B. Proximity to: Hart Park / Heritage Junction, Magic Mountain - Tourism C. Presence of historic structures and places D. Well built housing with character E. The Santa Clarita Valley Senior Center F. Good neighbors, good people G. Having a walking downtown H. The individuality of shops I. Smaller mom and pop type stores with more personal businesses J. Small town / main street / old town atmosphere K The western walk of fame L. Having a multi -cultural community M. Having mature trees, particularly oaks N: Possessing good freeway access 0. Being the Southern entry to Santa Clarita Description of Process . In order to involve as many segments of the Santa Clarita Valley community as possible, an informal, grassroots participation plan was developed specifically for the Newhall study area. This process encouraged a learning and community building process to develop between the community, the consultant team and the community development staff, and encouraged local individuals and groups to "buy in to" the participation process. Each stage of the participation process was built on the previous series of meetings and interviews. A. Key Person Interviews The first step in the participation process was the facilitation of key person interviews. Local citizens actively involved in Newhall issues with backgrounds in government, business, social services and area residents were interviewed and each were asked a series of pre -selected questions about Newhall. Each interview was summarized and subsequently, all interviews were collated into a Summary of Key Person Interviews (included in this report). Fifteen key person interviews were conducted. B. Resident Surveys Due to the interest of area residents, who reside outside the study area, both in Placerita Canyon and south of Heritage Junction, (many of whom contacted the city or consultant directly in order to become involved), a survey was developed for residents outside the study area. This survey asked the same questions as the key person interview surveys and was distributed by local resident volunteers. Fifty of these surveys were returned to the consultant and the results of the collated surveys are included on pages 70 - 72. C. Focal groups As a result of the previous interviews and in consultation with city staff, a series of focal grbup workshops were scheduled. Focal groups were defined as groups with a specific interest or expertise (in Newhall issues) with whom a -facilitated dialogue or "brain storming session" would be conducted. The focal groups included: A. Santa Clarita Valley Chamber of Commerce, Economic Development Committee B. Downtown Newhall Merchants C. City Staff D. Senior Citizens E. Historic Preservation F. East Newhall Residents June 10, 1993 Noon -1:30 PM Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital June 16, 1993 7:30 - 9:30 PM American Legion Hall June 17, 1993 8:00-11:00am City Hall June 17, 1993 1:00 - 2:00 PM S. C. V. Senior Center June 17, 1993 7:00 - 9:00 PM Saugus Station June 23, 1993 6:30-8:30 PM American Legion Hall Santa Clarita July 15 1993 Organization for 7:30 - 9:00 PM Planning the S. C. V. Senior Environment Center Focal group workshops were organized by the consultants with assistance from members of each focal group. The format for each focal group was intentionally informal to encourage as much interaction as possible. Participation in focal group meetings ranged from six to forty participants. A summary of each focal group workshop was prepared by the consultants and mailed to a contact person for each group to check for accuracy and completeness. For the Newhall Merchants Focal group workshop summaries were mailed to all participants. The East Newhall workshop was facilitated in Spanish. The historic preservation focal group also produced a map of significant historic sites, places, and buildings, which is included in this report. See page 63. The focal group workshop summaries were collated into categories by the consultants, such as: land use issues, marketing issues, etc., for ease of comparison between each focal group summary. Wherever feasible, the exact words of participants were utilized and technical terms and planning jargon were avoided.. Focal group workshop summaries are included in this report. See pages 45 - 68. G. Community July 8, 1993 Following the focal group interviews, the Services 12:00 - 2:00 PM consultants collated all focal group Organizations Saint Stephen's workshops and key person interviews into Episcopal "idea sheets." These idea sheets contained Church summaries of ideas that were continuously discussed at workshops and where general H. North of Lyons July 14, 1993 consensus was reached. Idea. worksheets Issues 1:00 - 2:30 PM included: (1) Newhall Land Use Ideas, (2) Boys' and Girls' Newhall Design Ideas, (3) Newhall Club Infrastructure Ideas, (4) Newhall Circulation and Parking Ideas, (5) Newhall HoUsing Ideas, (6) Newhall Marketing Ideas, and (7) Newhall Social and Cultural Ideas. Each of these idea sheets was translated into Spanish. In addition to the idea sheets, a map was prepared entitled Concept Mao / Ideas for Newhall which illustrated these consensus ideas in a graphic format. See page 46. D. Consensus Workshop A community -wide consensus workshop was conducted in August 19, 1993. The purpose of this workshop was to: 1. Bring together a full spectrum of participants from throughout the community, 2. To test the ideas summarized on the Newhall idea sheets consolidated from focal group workshops, 3. To reach a wider and more refined consensus on issues. 4. To receive input on several issues through a worksheet survey format. This workshop was advertised in the local media and workshop announcements were mailed to over 250 people, including participants in previous focal group workshops, City of Santa Clarita CDBG participant lists and to local citizens who had expressed an interest by contacting either city staff or the consultant team. The format of the workshop was a sit-down consensus decision making process. In this. process, participants sat at tables with 5-7 people and were.supplied with area maps (Concept Map / Ideas for Newhall), idea summaries, worksheets and colored markers. Each working group of 5-7 (there were six at this workshop) was given between 1 1/2 to 2 hours to achieve consensus on the idea summaries and worksheets. Working groups had the option of agreeing with, modifying or deleting ideas on the worksheets and / or describing their ideas graphically on the maps provided, as long as everyone in the working group concurred. At the end of the workshop, each small working group posts their consensus map on the front wall and a representative from each group explained the consensus decisions made by his/her group to the larger workshop group. It is important to note that neither staff or the consultant team took an active role in decision-making at this workshop. Discussion, debates and resolution for consensus were solely the work of citizen participants. After the workshop, the consultant team reviewed the worksheets from each group and developed a summary of the consensus workshop. This workshop summary was then mailed to each workshop participan4 for review. In addition to the idea summaries and maps provided, each group was also provided a worksheet prioritizing various options related to (1) San Fernando Road and (2) Possible Metrolink station options. A "Start Up" project list was also provided. The worksheets and "Start Up" Project list was prepared by the consultant. "Start up" projects are short term projects that will have an immediate positive impact on Newhall or that will initiate longer term efforts such as a Newhall Master Plan. See list on page 13. Metrolink Station Several potential locations were discussed for a Newhall Metrolink facility. 'These included: A. Anawalt Lumber site. B. Adjacent to Hart Park and Heritage Junction. C. At the proposed Newhall Ranch / Gates project. There was not a clear consensus on the - Metrolink location. Participants expressed a desire for additional information regarding the urban design and economic impacts; as well as drawings or visualizations for their review. Downtown Newhall was perceived as a likely site for Metrolink because of its central location. However, there were concerns regarding parking availability and the potential loss of a proposed park site at Anawalt Lumber. B. Provide a one-way couplet with 3 lanes in each direction (i.e. 3 lanes North on Railroad Avenue and 3 lanes South on San Fernando Road). C. Decrease width of San Fernando Road to 3 lanes, with 1 lane in each direction and a middle turning lane (constructed of colored concrete or brick pavers), to scale down the street. In conjunction, widen sidewalks and increase landscape. D. During the August 19th consensus workshop several groups added: Develop Railroad Avenue as a "bypass" road for commute traffic and truck traffic and maintain San Fernando Road as a local street. A location adjacent to Hart Park and Other suggestions included: Heritage junction was discussed due to the • Make San Fernando Road pedestrian ease of tourist and visitor access to friendly with parking, grass strip, Heritage junction. medians with trees and grass; feed traffic elsewhere. A Metrolink location has been discussed for the Gates property along with a conceptual mixed use project. This conceptual project, which at the writing of this report, has not been submitted to the City of Santa Clarita, apparently has as an integral component of its design, a Metrolink station with bus a transfer facility. San Fernando Road The issue of both the image and function of San Fernando Road was the topic of a good deal of discussion during this participation process. Participants general goals for San Fernando Road included: (1) Increase public safety by slowing down traffic, (2) Enhance the visual appearance, (3) Increase on -street parking where feasible. Options for Roadway design discussed at the workshops included: A. Maintain San Fernando Road as a 2 - way, 4 -lane road with additional visual, landscape and pedestrian improvements. • Model San Fernando Road after Gleni Ave. in Montrose, CA.: A serpentine road with some angle parking, ample landscaping, seating, outdoor cafes. Workshop participants stressed the need to obtain additional information on these options, including plan drawings and visualizations evaluating the plans impacts on the downtown area. Additional information on the consensus workshop discussion related to San Fernando Road can be found on page 17. E. East Newhall Workshop A Spanish language workshop was conducted on September 13, 1993 by consultant team member Esther Aguilar, at the community room of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church on Lyons Avenue. Seven people attended a small group workshop at 6 PM, and over 100 persons attended a subsequent meeting with Esther Aguilar at 8:30 PM. The following, comments represent a consensus of those attending. A. Housing 1. Landlords must be willing to offer affordable housing to prevent overcrowding. 2. Overcrowding occurs because some landlords just want to charge higher rents or because in some cases primary renters "sub -rent" to.more people to make money. 3. Landlords must regulate their properties better to prevent overcrowding. B. Crime 1'. The sheriff should have more presence in the area, especially around bars during the hours of 11:00 PM to 1:00 AM, 2. The sheriff should become more aggressive with drug dealers and users. 3. Noise (loud music, etc.) should be monitored. 4. Patrol the creek east of Newhall to prevent toxic dumping of oil waste from cars and to keep people from using it as a bathroom. 5. Require the owner of the property, east of Race Street, to repair fence to keep youths out of the area. 6. City should sponsor more self- improvement community meetings. For example, the Sheriff Department could meet with the community and talk about drug prevention and explain to residents how to clean-up the streets. C. Infrastructure 1. Flooding from Placerita Canyon causes Newhall Channel, near Walnut Street 1000 ft. from 16th Street, to overflow at least 20 ft. into residential properties. A clear determination should be made as to which agency has jurisdiction and city / resident communications need to be improved. 2. Improve street lighting in East Newhall. 3. Curbs and gutters are needed in all areas. 4. Improve Arch Street's access to San Fernando Road. 5. Prune large trees on sidewalks. , Summary of Newhall Ideas DESIGN These ideas were collated from key person GOAL: Develop Downtown Newhall interviews, focal group workshops, and the Design Guidelines with appropriate community consensus workshop; and western theme (or historic turn of the received strong support from a wide cross century theme). section of participants. LAND USE GOAL: Develop a coordinated planning effort which incorporates mixed commercial uses, maintains quality residential areas, and enhances pedestrian circulation, safety, and enjoyment. A. Develop a Downtown Newhall Master Plan, including: 1. Community Commercial District boundaries. 2. Historic l western design theme. a. Historic Newhall area. b. San Fernando Road design theme. c. Historic Preservation Ordinance and incentives. 3. Linkages to Heritage Junction, Hart Park, Metro -Link, schools. 4. Streetscape and facade plans. 5. Market survey / retail analysis. B. Rehabilitate unsightly rental uses adjacent to railroad right of way and develop.visual planning and safety guidelines. C. Encourage Bed & Breakfast uses in Newhall. D. Encourage Mixed -Use buildings with incentives for second floor residential. 10 A. Develop design standards for building massing, materials, facades, signage, streetscape, lighting and parking areas, using a combination of complimentary '%vestem" design styles. B. Facade guidelines should vary for building type and size. C. Facilitate a Facade Improvement Program with low cost loans and fast track permit processing (City of San Jose model). D. Streetscape plan shall encourage use of native plants/trees, historic period lighting. E. Develop a Newhall Avenue (north of Lyons) streetscape plan emphasizing pedestrian and bicycle safety. INFRASTRUCTURE GOAL: Improve infrastructure as a component of the Downtown Newhall revitalization program. A. Investigate preventive measures for creek flooding, including the feasibility of rip rap and plantings along creek bed, containment to help prevent flooding in East Newhall Streets. B. Develop a program for installation of curb, gutter, and sidewalk integrated with an area drainage plan. C. Underground overhead utilities. Newhall merchants strongly support this, idea. D.' Improve safety at railroad tracks and at grade crossings. . CIRCULATION & PARKING GOAL: Develop a comprehensive circulation and parking program for Newhall. Determine the role of San Fernando Road. Decrease speeding on San Fernando Road and Newhall Avenue and enhance pedestrian and bicycle circulation and safety throughout Newhall. Increase safe, off-street parking. A. Define San Fernando Road's role in city wide circulation, in order to incorporate the nature and function of San Fernando Road in any Downtown Newhall Master Plan. B. Slow down traffic on San Fernando Road. C. Develop a coordinated off-street parking master plan with signage and lighting. D. Investigate the purchase of existing vacant parcels for off-street parking. E. Increase rear access to businesses and coordinate with rear parking arees, visually attractive rear lots and rear entries and coordinated informational signage. F. Facilitate bicycle connections from Placerita Canyon area to Newhall (schools and downtown). G. Create a pedestrian crossing at Market / Newhall to facilitate pedestrian crossing from S. C. V. Senior Center, etc. to cross San Fernando Road. Possibly re- configure geometry at Market / Newhall to eliminate Market Street "offset." 11 H. Increase "green time" at Market / San Fernando to enhance pedestrian / senior crossing of San Fernando Road. I. Develop a.pedestrian /bicycle street plan for Newhall Avenue, north of Lyons, adjacent to schools to enhance pedestrian / bicycle safety. MARKETING GOAL: Develop a Business Improvement Plan which promotes a compatible vision of diverse businesses. Reverse the perception that the area is a "depressed" or blighted area. A. Facilitate the organization of a Business Improvement District for downtown Newhall to coordinate marketing, events, leasing, parking, etc. B: Business representatives should attend California Main Street seminars. C. Encourage western theme arts/crafts shops such as blacksmithing, silversmithing, pottery, etc. D. Encourage complementary businesses to lease space, investigate a western theme restaurant/complex. E. Facilitate a farmers' market on Market Street between Newhall Ave. and San Fernando Road. F. Encourage a.Postal Services Station in Newhall or at the S. C. V. Senior Center. G. Develop a Newhall Cultural Arts Program. H. Promote the Western Walk of the Stars and develop a Historic Memory Walk depicting Newhall famous personalities (Consultant suggested Chelsea, Mass. as a model). I. Encourage Bed & Breakfast uses. J. Consider potential relationships between the approved Valley Gateway project at the Hondo. site, the Gates property (currently in conceptual development), and the Southwest Museum (in grant application process) and downtown Newhall. K. Promote Newhall as a good place for experimental/start-up businesses due to low rent. HOUSING GOAL: To maintain and enhance the quality and character of neighborhood housing, while addressing the issues of overcrowding and building deterioration (without increasing homelessness) and increasing access to affordable housing. A. Provide additional affordable housing with particular emphasis on: B. Senior independent living apartments. C. Board and care facilities. D. Stabilize residential areas, including north of Lyons Ave., to avoid deterioration. E. Coordinate revitalization with educational and job creation programs. F. Work with absentee landlords to improve residential property and prevent overcrowding. G. Continue with health and safety code enforcement. 12 H. Consider establishing a Housing Authority or similar agency to manage rental properties. Develop programs which encourage renter involvement. Renters should feel free to participate but are afraid of landlord repercussions or feel indifferent because they don't own property. . Start -Up Projects GOAL: To establish short term projects that will have an immediate positive impact or initiate longer term efforts prior to initiation of a Master Plan being adopted. A. Investigate feasibility of Sheriffs storefront office and neighborhood watch program. B. Initiate a sheriffs patrol using bilingual officers on horseback. C. Initiate a Downtown Newhall Cultural Arts Program. D. Investigate wall locations for placement of historic murals depicting previous historic buildings, events or figures. E. Research installation of memory wall to include photos and history of historic personalities. F. Prepare historic district documentation. G. State certification of structures and/or a historic district can lead to free Caltrans signage and Public Utilities Commission Rule 20A participation in the undergrounding of utilities. H. Investigate pedestrian crossing signal at Market and Newhall and possible reconfiguration of Market Street geometry at Newhall Avenue, to assist pedestrians from the senior center to San Fernando Road. I. Increase pedestrian "green time" at San Fernando Road and Market Street Signal. J. Prepare as -built drawings (from aerial photographs) of downtown Newhall from Lyons Ave. to Newhall Ave. (south) and 13 from Walnut Ave. to Railroad Ave. This base map should include existing streets, right of ways and building envelopes. Such a map would be useful for: 1. Newhall streetscape plans. 2. Newhall off-street parking plans. 3. Estimates of building gross area for Business Improvement District and Market Studies. 4. Base map for potential Master Plan. K. Initiate program to install curbs, gutters, and sidewalks throughout the study area. L. Initiate regular street and sidewalk cleanup. M. Work with businesses and commercial property owners to develop'a parking district. Consultant Recommendations Prepare a Downtown Newhall Master Plan which incorporates: . A. Design and Circulation Plan B. Parking Opportunities Plan. C. Building Design Theme Standards D. Signage Program and Standards E. Streetscape Plan F. Marketing Plan G. Community Commercial District Boundaries and Policies H. Underground Utility District Boundaries. I. Land Use and Housing Opportunities J. An analysis of the urban design and economic opportunities presented by the Valley Gateway Project and proposed Gates Project 2. Prepare documentation for a Newhall Historic District, listing historic places, buildings, places and subdivisions. 3. Develop a Historic Preservation Ordinance as part of the City of Santa Clarita General Plan. 4. Develop incentives for private sector preservation of historic sites and structures. 5. Investigate the circulation, urban design and economic opportunities of various Metrolink locations in the Newhall area. 6. Continue the community participation process throughout the Newhall planning and revitalization effort. A mailing list has been developed as a part of this participation program. 14 Options and Ideas From Community Workshop of August 19, 1993 The following Newhall idea sheets summarize the results of the August 19, 1993 community consensus workshop. Consensus group comments are shown in italics and in hand written format on the summary map. Two examples of consensus group working maps are also provided. PROGRAMA DE PARTICIPACION DEL CENTRO COMERCIAL DE NEWHALL TALLER DE TRABAJO DE LA COMUNIDAD EL JUEVES 18 DE AGOSTO, DE 7.10 PM EN to CAFETERIA DE to ESCUELA SUPERIOR WILLIAM S. HMT DE IA AVE. NEWHALL 21828 EL PROPOSITO: EI de revisor loo objetivos, Ideas y of mapa de conceptos prellminares generales hecho por grupos an talleres de trabajo anteriores enfocados an Of centro eomerical de Newhall. FORMATO: Los partidpanles trabajar6n an paquef9os grupos y alcanzardn un consenso dentro del grupo con reladOn a los esfuerzos Gave de revitalizaci6n para el Centro comerdal de Newhall. El taller de.trabajo an grupo to facilitarg an ingl6s y espatiol uns firma planificadora de consultores bajo contrato con Is Ciudad de Santa Clarita. SU PARTICIPACION ES IMPROTANTEI 15 CONCEPT MAP/ IDEAS � FOR NEWHALL o::�:�� ••NN•• NA.TPARN — HERIIAGE JUNCTION tL11:1 [i DL�"ifLR21pT1O41S xTueEa.l T�1•I #mle, 6 co1.Le.ENes iuTu>= DP.nrIb.JN LlE1JLJeLL (LiA•D txTEe.To sTUD94RE.. . NEeD to TtAY un V[LTLLW 7UCfteG ffTLeeT Fels. .%dAl1T FAr-KLk4 STCLK-IUM- ■ Ido 1•TlUTc01.1141c L0LA.ITC),X4 C .f DDWw Pls.le. 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CaftrEO9.1060 .oma• JOA A Ewmy ii.AYlu AVD Fem'.AT CYM.IAERe. TO LTV'T. N • 6 EXPAUDSRaDTECILFI�'f s ksT aN*iL ♦ Tb AVFV \, GOIJ EusuS % O Oh O CL4W%ft LSJ6 u7PxtiuOp O col•11•'Ifam Golda-rta . . Prom c.CNmA .4SN6 CfROuP O commeamall & - ktC9L d10E.�$ 1 p elb.Al 1."o L.e.9Te O O wo[eRNeP O o roeuiaww- O ❑ CONSYLTART O O FIELD - — O TO STATE ROUTE ..,..A x1OxwAT u a O SUMMARY OF WORKING GROUP COMMENTS JIR0DINortw9ASEodulm o Fs AUGUST 19, 1923 - 66 SOEG CIu. CaftrEO9.1060 .oma• JOA A SAN FERNANDO ROAD OPTIONS WORKSHEET Options were developed by consultant, based on discussions at focal workshops. Analysis of consensus workshop results shown in italics. Unless noted otherwise, there was general support in the consensus workshop groups for the ideas listed. ISSUE: What should be done to improve San Fernando Road? General Plan policies and traffic counts indicate that to accommodate future commute traffic, San Fernando Road would need to be widened to six. travel lanes. Prioritize (with 1 being first choice) the following options or add additional ideas: ■ Maintain San Fernando Road as a 2 -way, 4 lane road with additional visual, landscape, and pedestrian improvements. One group saw this as the first priority. Two groups saw this -as the second priority. a Provide a one-way couplet with 3 lanes in each direction (i.e. 3 lanes north on Railroad Avenue and 3 lanes south on San Fernando Road). One group saw this as the first priority. One group saw this as the third priority. One group was opposed to this option. ■ Decrease width of San Fernando Road to 3 lanes, with 1 lane in each direction and a middle turning lane (constructed of colored concrete or brick pavers), to scale down the street. In conjunction, widen sidewalks and increase landscape. Three groups saw this as the first priority. One group saw this as the third priority. One group was opposed to this option. Additional options (not prioritized): A. Develop bypass. roads, perhaps Railroad Ave., to relieve fast through traffic from San Fernando Road. B. Develop a.truck bypass around San Fernando Road to Railroad Ave. C. Change name of San Fernando Road. D. Make San Fernando Road pedestrian friendly, parking, grass strip, medians with trees and grass, feed traffic elsewhere. E. Model San Fernando Road after Gleni Ave. in Montrose, CA.: Serpentine road .with some angle parking, ample landscaping, seating, outdoor cafes. F. Lower speed limit on San Fernando Road. G. Add bus turnouts to encourage transit use. 17 METROLINK STATION OPTIONS WORKSHEET - Options were developed by consultant, based on discussions at focal group workshops. Analysis of consensus workshop results shown in italics. Unless noted otherwise, there was general support in the consensus workshop groups for the ideas listed. ISSUE: Should there be a Metrolink station in Newhall? Standards for distance between Metrolink stations is 4 1/2 - 5 miles between stations. There is an existing Metrolink station approximately 4 112 - 5 miles north of Newhall. Prioritize (with 1 being first choice) the following options or add additional ideas: ■ Provide a Metrolink station, with Amtrak connections to San Diego, in Newhall as a magnet for reinvestment. Provide parking along Railroad Ave and increase density for offices, commercial, and housing. Three groups saw this as the first priority. One group saw this as the second priority. One group was opposed to this option. ■ Provide a Metrolink station south of Newhall at Pine Street adjacent to proposed Gates Project, and provide continuous shuttle bus to Newhall. Four groups were opposed to this option. One group supported this option. ■ Provide both of the above if possible. There was no support for this option. Additional options (not prioritized): A. Reestablish tracks between Santa Clarita and Piru. B. Metrolink station is not needed at this time. Would create a traffic problem in downtown Newhall. Where would the commuters come from? C. Provide Metrolink station at San Fernando and Pine, to serve Heritage Park. (One group saw this as the first priority.) D. Add Amtrak station to GateslNeedham project E. No station in downtown Newhall at Anawalt. Use Anawalt only for Park/Community Center. F. Anawalt Lumber possible only if a major road runs adjacent to it G. Consider Glaser properly at end of Lyons as a possible location for a rail station with connections to Piru and. Ventura. H. Station should have a turn -of -the -century theme. 18 I. Metrolink station idea needs more study regarding space, parking, and infrastructure needs. . NEWHALL LAND USE IDEAS Collated from focal group workshops and key person interviews. Analysis of consensus workshop results shown in italics. Unless noted otherwise, there was general support in the consensus workshop groups for the ideas listed. GOAL: Develop a coordinated planning effort which incorporates mixed commercial uses, maintains quality residential areas, and enhances pedestrian circulation, safety, and enjoyment. ■ Develop a downtown Newhall Master Plan, including: 1) Community Commercial District boundaries. 2) Historic/ western design theme. A) Historic Newhall area. B) San Fernando Road design theme. C) Historic Preservation Ordinance and incentives. 3) Linkages to Heritage Junction, Hart Park, Metro -Link, schools. One group suggested trails as links. 4) Streetscape and facade plans. One group suggested that new buildings should look like those on Lyons Ave and that merchants should be acquainted with choice of alternatives for facades. 5) Market survey / retail analysis. ■ Remove unsightly rental uses adjacent to railroad right of way and develop visual planning and safety guidelines. One group suggested that there should be incentives to do so. ■ Encourage Bed & Breakfast uses in Newhall. ■ Encourage Mixed -Use buildings with incentives for second floor residential. One group noted that presently there is only one two-story building. One group was opposed to this option. Other Ideas (not prioritized): A. The above ideas should be implemented only after the neighborhood is safe and approachable, and implementation should not negatively effect existing businesses. B. Project area boundaries should be extended south and east to the City limit, should include Elsmere Canyon, should be extended northeast in Piacirita Canyon to Melody Ranch. C. Before blocking San Fernando Road, and changing Road Patterns do the following: I. Pass City ordinances to support "theme" food and boutiques etc., 2. Buy up old businesses and encourage artisans. 19 . D. Encourage an old style movie theater. E. Encourage a Laundromat with a coffee bar. 20 CONCEPT MAP/ IDEAS - F O R NEWHALL -WIND Y:NI—All• �� •N rN:Y - e . ev,auL ,xun 1� �/E' IYor ru0unuel �� wILaT C.NION +O.tO G� r (`�/ . e•IN Y[La1• Ia00N•Y 1.0.0 lTY1A� FACAO, OD IO.G SAM t fff['''=lll�-VIl. M. 10rAXIIERN oealaN rxexa ro+ rNCbr . alaN.Ol i .IY 91VCYRe. OYTr[+L BICYCLE C . ! ...CI NLe[LTRI•M C R2TCL! 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'LO'l• IROV SIRSA MAN KING •L Y SAIL AOAO A.0 W. ONIIa NTLI URGE Q� JOO /NTAtM1ry RuclurtG arueluES NO AO ESrI G.O., OR c oww/ CTINO ROUTES TNA! 00000000 Ir1IACT OOWNTOWN N{WNALL OOWNIOWN SIYOt EN(A xIf IONIC OVE"Ar • CONY UNITY COYY(RCIAL • CRIME, IOYYOINI(E - • .(IIO(NEIEL uses, LONINO cY.RICGY l.TEIIOINO 0 1313 0 0 0 1313 I,TUOV AREA 130..OAK 196 _ 0 O e O O TEETERING, O� 0 IY T{arlm O IOCul GROUP 0 CDNRULTART ^� 01I/LAT p TO [TAT{ 00.19 14 A "..AA .ERICAI DOWNTOWN NEWHALL COMMUNITY WORKSHOP WORKING GROUP PARTICIPATION PROGRAM CONSENSUS MAP, GROUP 95 SANTA CLARITA, CA 91359 AUGUST 19,1999 AIMOEEICDrbI&AwoCkM AIUGbUIS21141 ruTt/'�9 70JFt/IGIo3llclI Sordu Cne.CaFbrtlo7.1060 JOA ELh Wei zf N►NMON' Li.Lfa� • NEWHALL DESIGN IDEAS Collated from focal group workshops and key person interviews. Analysis of consensus workshop results shown in italics. Unless noted otherwise, there was general support in the consensus workshop groups for the ideas listed. GOAL: Develop Downtown Newhall Design Guidelines with appropriate western theme. One group suggested that this goal refer to a "historic turn of the century theme" ■ Develop design standards for building massing, materials, facades, signage, streetscape, lighting and parking areas, using a combination of complimentary "western" design styles. ■ Facade guidelines should vary for building type and size. One group suggested that all buildings should reflect a consistent theme. ■ Facilitate a Facade Improvement Program with low cost loans and fast track permit processing (City of San Jose model). ■ Streetscape plan shall encourage use of native plants/trees, historic period lighting. ■ Develop a Newhall Avenue (north of Lyons) streetscape plan emphasizing pedestrian and bicycle safety. Other ideas (not prioritized): A. One group suggested that the above ideas are not an immediate priority, as compared to area safety and San Fernando Road issues. B. One group did not reach consensus on a theme but did reach consensus on the point that for any of these ideas to work, Newhall must first be safe and approachable. C. Feature English signs, with other language signage secondary. D. • Develop uniform signs in accord in keeping with Western theme in area. E. Develop theme entry at each end of town. F. Decorative safety/sound wall and landscaping along railroad track, both sides. Play area along Pine St. G. Change the name of San Fernando Road. H. Close San Fernando Road to cars and use Railroad Ave. for through traffic. Encourage pedestrians. t. Re -open old sheriffs station for bike police patrol. 23 NEWHALL INFRASTRUCTURE IDEAS Collated from previous focal group workshops and key person interviews. Analysis of consensus workshop results shown in italics. Unless noted otherwise, there was general support in the consensus workshop groups for the ideas listed. GOAL: Improve infrastructure as a component of the downtown Newhall revitalization program. ■ Investigate preventive measures for creek flooding. One group suggested these flood control methods: rip rap and plantings along creek bed, containment. ■ Develop a program for installation of curb, gutter, and sidewalk integrated with an area drainage plan. One group felt that this idea is a top priority. (see "Start Up" projects) ■ Underground overhead utilities: Newhall merchants strongly support this idea. ■ Improve safety at railroad tracks and at grade crossings. One group suggested that pads be added at the railroad crossing at San Fernando Road. Other ideas (not prioritized): A. Prevent flooding in East Newhall Streets. B. Improve area service for sewage. C. ° Develop trail adjacent to creek. D. Heighten attractiveness at Newhall entry with monument sign, not a big wall. E. Incorporate transportation system into Newhall community. Pay special attention to school traffic. F. Trail system for pedestrians, bikes, and horses. G. Make community safe first. 24 NEWHALL MARKETING IDEAS Collated from focal group workshops and key person interviews. Analysis of consensus workshop results shown in italics. Unless noted otherwise, there was general support in the consensus workshop groups for the ideas listed. GOAL: Develop a Business Improvement Plan which promotes a compatible vision of diverse businesses. Reverse the perception that the area is "depressed." ■ Facilitate the organization of a Business Improvement District for downtown Newhall to coordinate marketing, events, leasing, parking, etc. ■ Send business representatives to California Main Street seminars. ■ Encourage western theme arts/crafts shops such as blacksmithing, silversmithing, pottery, etc. One group suggested that the theme be modified to include "turn of the century." ■ Encourage complementary businesses to lease space, investigate a western theme restaurant/complex. • Facilitate a farmers' market on Market Street between Newhall Ave: and San Fernando Road. ■ Encourage a Postal Services Station in Newhall or at the S. C. V. Senior Center. ■ Develop a Newhall Cultural Arts Program. ■ Promote the Western Walk of the Stars and develop a Historic Memory Walk depicting Newhall famous personalities (Chelsea, Mass. as a model). ■ Encourage. Bed & Breakfast uses. ■ Consider potential relationships between the proposed Hondo, Gates, and Southwest Museum projects and downtown Newhall. E. Promote Newhall as a good place for experimental/start-up businesses due to low rent. ■ Consider an RV campground facility south of the Study Area. One group was opposed to this idea. Other ideas (not prioritized): A. More Restaurants. 25 B. Put downtown Newhall on map with Magic Mountain. Encourage Metrolink trips to visit both. C. Promote downtown Newhaffas a full partner with Valencia. D. There are 3 colleges in Santa Clanta that could be more integrated with marketing and planning. 3U NEWHALL HOUSING IDEAS Collated from focal group workshops and key person interviews. Analysis of consensus workshop results shown in italics. Unless noted otherwise, there was general support in the consensus workshop groups for the ideas listed. GOAL: To maintain and enhance the quality and character of neighborhood housing, while addressing the issues of overcrowding and building deterioration (without increasing homelessness) and increasing access to affordable housing. One group wanted to add "enforcement of immigration and day labor" to this goal. ■ Provide additional affordable housing with particular emphasis on: One group opposed C, D, & E in downtown Newhall. A) Senior independent living apartments. . B) Board and care facilities. C) Housing for single mothers. D) Programs for teenage homeless and runaways. E) Housing,cooperatives to facilitate renters becoming "owners." ■ Stabilize residential areas, including north of Lyons Ave., to avoid deterioration. ■ Coordinate revitalization with educational and job creation programs. ■ Pressure absentee landlords to improve residential property and prevent overcrowding. One group suggested changing "pressure" to 'work with." ■ Continue with proactive health and safety code enforcement. One group suggested changing "continue" to "initiate,"and add. "through section 8" ■ Consider establishing a Housing Authority or similar agency to manage rental properties. ■ Investigate rent control as a means of controlling overcrowding. Rents per square foot in Newhall are the highest in Santa Clarita Valley. One group was opposed to this idea. ■ Develop programs which encourage renter involvement. Renters should feel free to participate but are afraid of landlord repercussions or feel indifferent because they don't own property. ■ Encourage mixed use buildings in downtown Newhall with incentives for second floor residential. One group was opposed to this idea. Other ideas (not prioritized): A. Promote a hotel in southern pad of city. B. Promote additional senior housing. 27 NEWHALL CIRCULATION & PARKING IDEAS VEHICULAR • TRANSIT • PEDESTRIAN • BICYCLE Collated from focal group workshops and key person interviews. Analysis of consensus workshop results shown in italics. Unless noted otherwise, there was general support in the consensus workshop groups for the ideas listed.. GOAL: Develop a comprehensive circulation and parking program for Newhall. Determine the role of San Fernando Road. Decrease speeding on San Fernando Road and Newhall Avenue and enhance pedestrian and bicycle circulation and safety throughout Newhall. Increase safe, off-street parking. ■ Define San Fernando Road's role in city wide circulation, in order to incorporate the nature and function of San Fernando Road in Newhall Master Plan. One group felt this is a high priority. All groups supported this option. One group commented: "Revamp San Fernando Road in conjunction with new businesses and theme but not before." ■ Enhance San Fernando Road as a city entry way at Route 14 / Sierra Highway. One group was opposed to this. ■ Slow down traffic on San Fernando Road. One group suggested posting the speed limit at 30 MPH and enforcing it. ■ Develop a coordinated off-street parking master plan with signage and lighting. ■ Investigate the purchase of existing vacant parcels for off-street parking. One group suggested using CDBG funds for this. ■ Increase rear access to businesses and coordinate with rear parking areas, visually attractive rear lots and rear entries and coordinated informational. signage. One group could not reach consensus on this issue. ■ Extend Pine Street to Sierra Highway. ■ 'Take San Fernando Road from Caltrans and have the city operate it." One group suggested 'wait till it is finished.' ■ Facilitate bicycle connections from Placerita Canyon area to Newhall (schools and downtown). One group suggested also a landscaped bike path from Railroad Ave. to Soledad Canyon. One group suggested bicycle and trail connections between all neighborhoods. ■ Create a pedestrian crossing at Market/ Newhall to facilitate pedestrian crossing from S. C. V. Senior Center, etc. to downtown. Possibly re -configure geometry at Market/ 28 Newhall to eliminate Market Street 'offset." All groups supported this option. See "Start Up" projects. ■ Increase "green time" at Market / San Fernando to enhance pedestrian / senior crossing of San Fernando Road. All groups supported this option. See "Start Up" projects. ■ Develop a Pedestrian / Bicycle street plan for Newhall Avenue, north of Lyons, adjacent to schools to enhance pedestrian / bicycle safety. One group felt that this is a high priority for the safety of school children. One group suggested a pedestrian overpass at this area. Other ideas (not prioritized): A.. Have a contest to rename San Fernando Road. B. Develop an off street parking structure. C. Promote horse-drawn transit. 29 NEWHALL SOCIAL & CULTURAL IDEAS Collated from focal group workshops and key person interviews. Analysis of consensus. workshop results shown in italics. Unless noted'otherwise, there was general support in the consensus workshop groups for the ideas listed. GOAL: To coordinate social services and cultural activities with the downtown Newhall Revitalization Program. ■ Provide youth activities, recreation, job training and employment opportunities to deter youth from gang activities and homelessness. One group was opposed to this idea. One group stated that these activities are already provided at the Boys' and Girls' club. ■ Develop bilingual newsletter/ information bulletin explaining landlords' and renters' rights and obligations. One group was opposed to this idea. a Facilitate Hispanic seniors access to S. C. V. Senior Center. One group was opposed to this idea. ■ Consider a hiring center for day -workers. One group took a vote on this issue with 3 opposed, 1 in favor, 1 undecided. One group was opposed to this idea. One group suggested that such a center should be for "/egals" only. IN Investigate the feasibility of a Sheriffs storefront office and foot patrol. Three groups were strongly in favor of this idea. Three groups suggested a horseback sheriffs patrol with bilingual officers. One group suggested having a bi-lingual sheriffs officer on patrol. One group suggested the old sheriffs office on Market Street as a possible location for this. Other ideas: A. Have bike, carriage rental areas. B. Encourage a movie theatre. C. Create historic walk like in Boston, Virginia City, Carson City. D. Want to mix types of cultural events in Newhall, not just predominately hispanic. In addition, provide hispanic cultural events throughout Santa Clarita. E. Local businesses can supplement training and employment for youth. F. Resolve illegal issue with help of the Feds. im PROCESO DE PARTICIPACI6N DEL CENTRO COMERCIAL DE NEWHALL PROYECTOS DE "COMIENZO" EN NEWHALL (Recomendaci6nes del, consultor basados an talleres de trabajo antericres) META Establecer proyectos de termino corto qua tengan impacto positivo imediato o iniciar esfuerzos de termino largo antes de iniciar un plan especifico que se haya adoptado. Iniciar un programa de artes culturales para el centro comercial de Newhall. Investigar ubicaciones de paredes para colocar murales hist6ricos representando edificios anteriores hist6ricos, eventos o figuras. Investigar instalaci6n de una pared que recuerde fotos de historia de personalidades hist6ricas. Preparar documentaci6n hist6rica del distrito. La certificaci6n del estado de estructuras que pueda librar Caltrans y P.G. & E: regla20 de servicios subterraneos. Investigar la posibilidad de una oficina del Sherif y un programa de vigilancia an el vecindario. Investigar una serial an el cruzero para peatones an las caller Market y Newhall y possible reconfiguration de la Calle Market y su geometria an la Avenida Newhall. Preparar tomo los dibujos sean construidos (de fotografias aereas) del centro comercial de Newhall de la Avenida Lyons haste la Avenida Newhall, ( at sur) y de la Avenida Walnut hasta la Avenida Railroad. Este mapa base debera incluir Galles existentes, derechos de acceso y sabre de edificios. Tal mapa seria util para: A) Planes de adomo para Newhall. B) Planes de estacionamiento fuera de las Galles de Newhall. C) Aproximaciones del area de edificios para mejorar el Distrito de Negocios y Estudios de Mercado. D) Mapa base para un plan especifico. 31 PROCESO DE PARTICIPACION DEL CENTRO COMERCIAL DE NEWHALL IDEAS DEJNFRAESTUCTURA PARA NEWHALL (Informacio.n segun talleres de trabajo anteriores) META: Mejorar la infraestructura como componente del programa de revitalizaci6n del centro comercial de Newhall. Investigar medidas preventivas para inundaci6n con aguas del arroyo. Desarrollar un programa para instalar, banquetas, orillas de banqueta y alcantarillas integrada con un plan de drenaje del area. Servicios en el subsuelo y arriba. Mejorar seguridad en las vias del ferrocarril y en los cruzeros. 32 PROCESO DE PARTICIPAC16N DEL CENTRO COMERCIAL DE NEWHALL IDEAS PARA VIVIENDAS EN NEWHALL (Informacion segun talleres de trabajo anteriores) META: Mantener y mejorar la calidad y caracter de la vivienda en el vecindario, mientras a la vez de atienden los asuntos de amontonamiento y deterioro de edificios (sin aumentar el numero de gente sin hogar) y hacer posible el acceso de Casa que Sean razonables en precio. Proporcionar mas viviendas al alcance de la gente con enfasis en: A) Apartamentos para vivir independientemente B) Facilidades para cuidado de abonados C) Viviendas para madres solteras D) Programas para quindeaneras sin hogar y desertores de su hogar. E) Casas en cooperative para facilitar a los inquilinos a que se conviertan en propietarios. Estabilizar areas residenciales, incluyendo al norte de la Avenida Lyons, evitando deterioro. Coordinar la revitalizaci6n con programas educativos y creaci6n de empleos. Presionar a los duehos de propiedades que estan ausentes para que mejoren la propiedad residencial y eviten amontonamiento. Continuar con el enforzamiento de c6digo de seguridad y proactivo de salud. Consideren estabiezer una autoridad de la vivienda o agencia similar para que manejen propiedades de yenta. Investiguen el control de la renta como medio de controlar el amontonamiento. Rentas por pie cuadrado en Newhall son mas altas que en el Valle de Santa Clarita. Desarrollar programas que animen envolvimiento a los que rentan. Los que rentan se deben se sentir libres de participar pero tienen miedo de repercusiones del dueno de la propiedad o sienten indiferencia porque.no son propietarios de casas. Anime a que usen edificios mixtos en el centro de comercio de Newhall con incentivos para el sequndo piso residencial. 33 PROCESO DE PARTICIPAC16N DEL CENTRO COMERCIAL DE NEWHALL IDEAS DE MERCADEO EN NEWHALL (Informacion segun talleres de trabajo anteriores) META: Desarrollar un plan de mejoras del negocio que promueva una vision compatible de diversos negocios. Regresando la percepcion de que el area esti "deprimida". Facilitar la organizaci6n de un distrito de obras publicas que mejoren los negocios del centro de Newhall para coordinar mercado, eventos, renta y alquileo, estacionamiento, etc. Enviar representantes de negocios a seminarios de la Calle Principal de California. Anime a que se utilize el tema del Oeste, en las tiendas de artes y artesanias tales-como las de fierro, plata y barro etc. Anime a que se establezcan negocios complementarios para que renten espacio, investiguen un tema del oeste en un complejo de restaurantes. Facilite un mercado de agricultores en la calle Market entre la Avenida Newhall y San Fernando Road. Anime los servicios de correo a que se instalen en S.C.V. Centro para Ancianos o an Newhall. Desarrollen un program Cultural y de Ames en Newhall. Promuevan el paseo de las estrellas de Oeste y desarrollen un paseo de Recuerdos Hist6ricos enfocando personal idades famosas de Newhall. Anime a que se utilize cama y almuerzo. Considere'la relaci6n potencial entre el propuesto proyecto Hondo, Gates y el Museo Southwest y el centro comercial de Newhall. Promueva Newhall tomo un lugar bueno para experimentadcomenzando un negocio.debido a renta baja. Considere un terreno para vehiculos recreativos al sur del area de estudio. 34 PROCESO DE PARTICIPAC16N DEL CENTRO COMERCIAL DE NEWHALL ATRIBUTOS DE NEWHALL (Informacion segun talleres de trabajo anteriores) Lugares favoritos: Hart Park Heritage Junction Escuelas (todas en un area) Newhall Hardware Way Station Coffee Shop Conveniencia Proximo a Hart Park/Heritage Junction, Magic Mountain-Turismo Estructuras Hist6ricas Casas bien construidas con caracter S.C.V. Centro para Ancianos Buenos vecinos, buena gente Un centro comercial para andar Tiendas con individualidad Tiendas peque8as con mas negocio personal Calle principal como de pueblo chico con la atmosfera de un pueblo viejo. Paseo de la fama al estilo del Oeste. Multicultural Arboles maduros 35 PROCESO DE.PARTICIPAC16N DEL CENTRO COMERCIAL DE NEWHALL ESTACIONAMIENTO Y CIRCULACI6N EN NEWHALL VEHICULOS, TRANSITO, PEATONES, BICICLETA IDEAS (Information segun talleres de trabajo anteriores) META: Desarrollar un programa comprensivo de circulaci6n y estacionamiento para Newhall. Reducir la velocidad sobre el Camino San Fernando y la Avenida Newhall y mejorar la sequridad de la circulaci6n para los peatones y las bicicletas por todo Newhall. Aumentar el estacionamiento fuera de las Galles. Defina•la parte que tiene el Camino San Fernando en la circulaci6n de toda la ciudad para incorporar la funci6n del San Fernando Road en el plan especifico de Newhall. Mejorar San Fernado Road como la Ciudad de entrada a Ruta 14/Sierra Highway. Reducir la velocidad del trafico en el San Fernando Road. Desarrollar un plan coordinado meastro de estacionamiento fuera de la calle con Iuces y r6tulos. Investique la compar de parcelas qua existan vacantes para estacionamiento fuera de la calle. Aumente el acceso por la parte de atras para los negocios y coordine con areas de estacionamiento por la parte de atras, lotes traceros qua esten a la vista atractivos y entradas traceras asi tomo r6tulos coordinados de information. Extienda la Calle Pine hasta la caretera Sierra. 'Tome el camino San Fernando Road de Caltrans y qua la Ciudad to maneje" Facilite conecciones de bicicleta desde Placerita Canyon hasta Newhall (escuelas y el centro comercial). Haga un cruzero de peatones en la Market/Newhall para facilitar craze de peatones desde S.C.V. Centro para Ancianos, etc. al centro de la Ciudad. Posiblemente reconfigure la geometria o forma en Market/Newhall para eliminar Market St., "para compensar". Aumentar "tiempo verde" en Market/San Fernando para mejorar el cruze de peatones/ancianos en San Fernando Road. RM Desarrollar un plan de la calle para peatones/bicicietas para la Avenida Newhall, al norte de Lyons, adyacente a escuelas para mejorar la seguridad de peatones/biciclefas. 37 PROCESO DE-PARTICIPACI6N DEL CENTRO COMERCIAL DE NEWHALL OPCIONES DEL CAMINO DE SAN FERNANDO (Recomendaci6nes del consultor basados en talleres de trabajo anteriores) RESUMEN: Para vez de acomodar la demanda proyectada del trafico de las horas mos congestionadas, el camino de San Fernando tendra que ampliarse a un ancho de 6 tineas de trafico, o convertirse en solo una linea de trafico con Avenida Ferrocarril y con el Camino San Fernando (cada una siendo de 3 lineas de trafico y de una sola direccion). De Prioridad: (con el numero 1 siendo la primera seleci6n) la siguientes opciones o agreque ideas adicionales. Apoyamos la calle de tres lineas de trafico de una sola direcci6n. No le corresponde a la calle principal de Newhall acomodar trafico de la hora de congestionamiento de los conmutadores. Mantengan el Camino San Fernando tomo un camino de dos direcciones y 4 lineas de trafico con mejoras visuales y para peatones. Quitenle ancho al Camino San Fernando a que tenga 3 lineas de trafico an cada direcci6n y una linea de traico al centro para dar vuelta (construida de cemento a color o pavimentada con ladrillos), para reducir la calle. A la vez, amplien las banquetas y aumenten las plantas. Provean para el trafico de conmutadores con: La Estaci6n Metro, programas de autos que Ilevan pasajeros, o bien otros programas de manejo de trafico, y/o Ruta del plan 126. 38 PROCESO DE PARTICIPAC16N DEL CENTRO COMERCIAL DE NEWHALL OPCIONES DE LA ESTAC16N METRO -LINK (Recomendaci6nes del consultor basados en talleres de trabajo anteriores) RESUMEN: Los estandares de MTA para la distancia entre las Estaciones Metro -Link es de 4.5-5 millas entre estaciones. La Estacion existente Metro -Link 4.5- 5 Millas al norte de Newhall. Prioridad (con el numero 1 siendo la primera selecci6n) las siguientes opciones o agregue ideas adicionales: Proporcionar una estaci6n de conexi6n Metro -Link con conexiciones Amtrak a San Diego, en Newhall como iman para reinversi6n. Proveer estacionamiento per la Avenida Railroad y aumentar la densidad para oficinas, comercio, y cases. Proporcionar una estaci6n de Metro -Link al sur de Newhall en la Calle Pine cerca del Proyecto propuesto Gates, y proveer un autobus continuo hacia Newhall. Proveer ambos descritos arriba si es posible. 39 PROCESO DEPARTICIPAC16N DEL CENTRO COMERCIAL DE NEWHALL IDEAS SOCIALES Y CULTURALES DE NEWHALL (Information segun talleres de trabajo anteriores) META Para coordinar servicios sociales y culturales de actividades con el Centro Comercial del Programa de Revitalization de Newhall. Proveer actividades para la juventud, recreation entrenamiento para trabajo y oportunidades de empleo para impedir a la juventud que practiquen actividades en pandillas y queden sin hogar. Desarrollar un periodico bilingue/boletin de informacibn explicando los derechos y cbligaciones tanto de los duenos de propiedades tomo los inquilinos y comportamiento ilegal an lugares publicos. Facilitar a los ancianos hispanos acceso al centro S.C.V. Consideren un centro para ocupar a trabajadores de dia. Investiguen la posibilidad de una oficina frente a una tienda y una patrulla a pie. 40 PROCESO DE PARTICIPAC16N EN EL CENTRO COMERCIAL DE NEWHALL IDEAS DE DISENO PARA NEWHALL (Informacion segun talleres de trabajo anteriores) META: Desarrollar tineas y guias para el diseAo del centro comercial de Newhall con diseno apropiado con tema del Oeste. Desarrollar dise8o estandar para edificio, materiales, fachadas, jardines, en las Galles, luces, rotulos areas de estacionamiento usando una continuacion de estilos y diserlos del Oeste. Las lineas y guias de las fachadas deberan variar para el tipo y tamano de edificio. Facilitiar un programa de mejoras de las fachadas con prestamos de bajo costo, alumbrado de periodo histdrico. Desarrollar una avenida Newhall (al norte de Lyons) plan de jardines para la Calle enfatizando seguridad para peatones y bicicletas. 42 PROCESO DE PARTICIPAC16N EN EL CENTRO COMERCIAL DE NEWHALL IDEAS PARA EL USO DEL TERRENO EN NEWHALL` (Information segun talleres de trabajo anteriores) META: Desarrollar un esfuerzo coordinado de planificaci6n que incorpore el use mixto comercial, mantenga areas de calidad residencial, y mejore la circulaci6n de peatones asi coma disfruten de seguridad. Desarrollar un plan especifico en el Centro de Newhall incluyendo: 1) Limites del Distrito Comercial de la comunidad. 2) Diseno/Hist6rico en tema del Oeste. A) Area hist6rica de Newhall B) Tema de diseno de San Fernando Road. C) Ordenanza de preservaci6n hist6rica a incentivos 3) Coneccion con Heritage Junction, Hart Park, Metro -Link y escuelas. 4) Planes para las fachadas y los jardines de Ia calle. 5) Encuesta del mercado/analisis de venta al por manor Quitense propiedades de renta que tengan mal aspecto adyacente al ferrocarril y su derecho de via y desarrollen planificaci6n visual y guias para lineas de seguridad. Encaminar y animar el use de Cama y Almuerzo en Newhall. Encaminar edificios de use mixto con incentivos para residencias en el segundo pilo. 44 Focus Group Summaries (in order of date of workshop) Also included is a map prepared by the consultants which summarizes many of the ideas coming out of the focal groups, and was used as a basis for the community consensus workshop. DOWNTOWN NEWHALL MERCHANTS WORKSHOP WITH CITY OF SANTA CLARITA DOWNTOWN NEWHALL STUDY CONSULTANTS JEFF OBERDORFER. AIA ESTHER AGUILAR TOPICS: SAN FERNANDO ROAD NAME CHANGE? TRAFFIC S CIRCULATION REVITALIZATION AMERICAN LEGION HALL 24627 SPRUCE STREET WEDNESDAY, JUNE 16 7:30.6:70 PM THIS MEETING IS ONE OF MANY FOCAL GROUP WORKSHOPS FOR THE DOWNTOWN NEWHALL AREA YOUR INPUT IS IMPORTANTI 45 CONCEPT MAP/ IDEAS FOR NEWHALL '•"YEWN.LL. O[ETIMII eN L•IN(/ IMID FIDE RDIAN LURAOCL I ROY1(` EIML ETOCAIL E 0E110M OV[[LLL fN[ IMOi IRIORIII!!OI wn(Y CANYOM ROAD DEVELOP rROORAY[OR IL To LOP ALOAD • OIYLLOr 1 M OTM(wLIC[TDCLO _ ..ADLL L • IMPROVE CUM@. BUTTER L .� II LID[wALR • LiCYCLI IRCULATIONi •• p �1 al .7 , � •M .001LRR.' DISTRICT T k • •RAOIL .1.�CIIIIIJII YRIONLONMOODS A DEAL b OY[AYRBUSINESS L t_ -~•YY-\�,_ E IssuLL MEWNALL I... BOYS L CALL CLVB� IED BEIMIANgICYCLE OE YONq As(Tl ELAN ICV SENIOR MANT FARM HERITAGE JUNCTION JUNIOR MICM MART N.C. EA I TO STATE MOVIE IL I S. ,RAA NI..w AY DOWNTOWN NEWHALL COMMUNITY WORKSHOP BASE MAP PREPARED PARTICIPATION PROGRAM BY CONSULTANTS BASED ON PREVIOUS FOCAL SANTA CLARITA, CA 91766 GROUP WORKSHOPS AUGUST IS, I667 2RI111M0 TR A IIIC SIGNAL IM •L• OOWNTOWM N'FNALL T POSSIBLE ORTMOLIML M .ACILIl, ••• FIDE RDIAN LURAOCL .00000L..... EIML ETOCAIL E 0E110M TNEY EIIRCAOE IYIROYR YMTLIIAR[IMO RAILROAD M.O.M. VMSISMTLY USES LNTRIWAYS woonT * STUD, ANSA -�-, LOVNOAMISS MOA* LIIlNL10.0 OR Ce..ACTING ROuIss INAT 00 0 0 0 0 0 0 IMPACT OOWNTOW. WLWMALL OOWNCOWNEID*IAACA • .ISTG*10 OYl*LAI . COMMUNITY COMMERCIAL . OIllICI MODMDAAIII . REEIO(W[IAL VIII/ SONIM* CO -2-020 1-11-01-* 00000/300 AlUOl AREA BOUNDARIES O woRREMOM 0 mmVIEw O Focus ***up O CONSULTANT O FIELD s—A O O + JLSOEwADrIlr6Aslotloln ••• JOA I.._ smlftc&mccwwio9ww SANTA CLARITA VALLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE FOCUS GROUP JUNE 10, 199312:00 NOON AT HENRY MAYO NEWHALL MEMORIAL HOSPITAL Consultants Jeff Oberdorfer (JOA Architects) and Esther Aguilar (Aguilar and Associates) were introduced by Committee Chair Marc Aronson. Jeff Oberdorfer gave a brief presentation of the downtown Newhall scope of work and opened the meeting for committee members comments and ideas. Comments clustered in categories: 1. PEDESTRIAN ISSUES • Increase pedestrian safety on San Fernando Road. • How about a pedestrian overpass? • Increase nighttime use, encourage nighttime strolling. • How about a nighttime foot patrol by the Sheriffs department? • Model Newhall after a "mini San Diego gas light district" or a "mini Westwood." 2. PARKING Increase rear access to businesses by creating more rear parking lots and more attractive rear entries. 3. IMAGE • Develop a western theme or image through restoration and storefront revitalization. • Add a western style restaurant. • Allow California Spanish style buildings as well. 4. ATTRACTION Local people are drawn to the area by the Way Station Coffee Shop and Newhall Hardware. Visitors are staying at the Santa Clarita Motel (24971 San Fernando Road) to avoid the higher costs of hotels and motels closer to Magic Mountain. 47 • The courthouse, police station, and The Signal used to be located in Newhall and provided focal points. 5. RENOVATION / REHABILITATION • Encourage storefront renovation. • How do we encourage homeowner rehabilitation?: Council Member Jo Anne Darcy stated that there were rehab loans available through the city and county. 6. TEENAGERS • Safety concerns related to teenagers crossing Lyons Avenue were discussed. • Jeff Oberdorfer mentioned teen job programs aimed at residential rehabilitation. 7. TAN MEDICAL GROUP • The consultants were encouraged to interview the TAN Medical Group concerning physical growth planning in their Newhall location. S. STUDY AREA BOUNDARIES • Jeff Oberdorfer posted a study area map and discussed the tentative study area boundaries and future focus group meetings. 9. ONE-WAY COUPLET • This proposal was generated in a 1981 county study and is still looked upon with some interest as a method of improving traffic circulation, on street parking, pedestrian safety and the visual image of San Fernando Road. 48 NORTH OF LYONS FOCUS GROUP JULY 14, 1993 1:00 PM AT THE BOYS' AND GIRLS' CLUB Consultant Jeff Oberdorfer (JOA Architects) gave a brief -introduction of the downtown Newhall scope of work and opened the meeting for discussion and comments. Comments clustered in categories for ease of reading: 1. LAND USE • Stabilize area North of Lyons Avenue to avoid the residential deterioration occurring in other sections of Newhall, and beginning to drift North of Lyons Avenue. • Deal with rental units overcrowding. • Maintain Newhall Study Area boundaries to include three public schools, Boys' and Girls' Club, and City Park. • There are Hispanic surname families (Portuguese, Salvadoran, etc.), here for over 30 years, who are property owners. • The Newhall "negative image" hurts real estate values. Make the area more secure with period lighting, etc. 2. SCHOOL ISSUES • Other elementary school options are creating an exodus from the elementary school. • Lack of curb and gutters creates a pedestrian safety hazard. • Kids pedestrian safety is an important issue. • Kids are afraid to go to school on bicycles. • Older men hang around schools in AM. and parents are afraid to send kids by bicycle or walking. 3. BEHAVIOR ISSUES • We used to send kids by bicycle to "Tresierres" Market for sugar, milk, etc. Now we must drive, because kids are afraid to go. • People often urinate in the street in full public view. 49 • A`sheriffs foot patrol should be established for business and residential areas. 4. DAY WORKERS • Establish a hiring hall as a way of getting people off the streets. 5. TRAFFIC / CIRCULATION • Route Wiley Canyon to Circle J Road as a method of reducing traffic through Newhall. • Get rid of temporary uses along railroad right of way and establish bicycle lanes. • The area has developed in such a way, in terms of traffic, land use, and social problems, that walking to or bicycling to the downtown is no longer perceived as being safe, and in tum creates more need for the automobile. 50 SANTA CLARITA ORGANIZATION FOR PLANNING THE ENVIRONMENT FOCUS GROUP JULY 15, 1993 7:45 PM AT SANTA CLARITA VALLEY SENIOR CENTER • Consultant Jeff Oberdorfer (JOA Architects) gave a brief introduction of the downtown Newhall scope of work and opened the meeting for discussion and comments. Comments clustered in categories for ease of reading: 1. LAND USE • Develop a historic preservation ordinance. • Recognize other historic structures at State level. • Encourage bed and breakfast uses. • Extend Study Area boundaries to southeast and to Sierra Highway. • Encourage mixed-use buildings with incentives for second floor residential. • Investigate second floor bridges as an option. • Emphasize the area's resort town from the 1920's, i.e. vacation cabins. • Look at Main Street in Santa Monica as a positive example. • Develop parking lot shuttles linking rear parking lots. 2. DESIGN THEME • Develop a variety of styles within one overall theme. • Streetscaping: install historic street lights and develop a street tree plan. • Consider development guidelines for side.streets. • Restore natural vegetation, oaks, etc. • The businesses adjacent to the railroad easement should be removed; they are a safety and visual hazard. Utilities should be placed underground and.billboards removed. The area adjacent to the railroad right of way is "one of the ugliest places in Southern California." 51 3. MACRO VIEW AND TRANSPORTATION • A possible Southwest Museum at Beales Cut would have a significant positive impact. • 3,000 high tech jobs at the Hondo project and 10,000 employees at the Gates project will change the downtown Newhall.market. Look at Metrolink at Gates property southwest of Newhall • Extend Pine Street to Sierra Highway. • Encourage historic railroad at Saugus Station to serve Historic Newhall. • There was a general discussion about traffic on San Fernando Road: A. One way couplet, 3 lanes each way. B. Leave area as it is but delete on -street parking from 6 - 7:30 AM to accommodate peak hour traffic. C. Investigate alternate Route 126. 4. OBSTACLES TO REVITALIZATION • Accommodating through traffic at 6 - 7:30 AM south bound. Loitering and overcrowding. 52 DOWNTOWN NEWHALL MERCHANTS. FOCUS GROUP JUNE 16, 1993 7:30 PM AT AMERICAN LEGION HALL Consultants Jeff Oberdorfer (JOA Architects) and Esther Aguilar (Aguilar and Associates) gave a brief introduction of the downtown Newhall scope of work and opened the meeting for discussion and comment. Comments clustered in categories for ease of reading: 1. TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION • Past petitions have indicated approximately 95% of the business community is opposed to a one-way couplet on San Fernando Road and Railroad Avenue. • "Why widen San Fernando Road?" • It is essential to slow down traffic on San Fernando Road. • Truck routes should be re-routed. • Trucks carrying toxic chemicals should not be allowed on San Fernando Road! • There are many accidents at the intersection of San Fernando Road and Market Street. 2. PARKING • Parking is essential to revitalization and must be integrated with slowing traffic on San Fernando Road and design guidelines as a comprehensive strategy. • The fact that some existing buildings have non -conforming parking and new uses must meet current parking standards is unfair. • Vacant parcels should be purchased for off-street parking. A parking district could be formed to purchase these properties. • Small "Mom and Pop" operations need on -street parking and store -front exposure. • "Without parking this area is dead!" • "No matter how much parking is provided, if the area is not appealing, -people won't be drawn to this area." 53 3. RENOVATION / REHABILITATION • Store front revitalization must be coordinated with creation of additional parking. • "Design standards are critical because, if I am to spend funds improving my property, I need to know that my neighbors will be required to meet the same standards." • A special area needs a specific plan with its own codes and standards. 4. ATTRACTION Santa Clarita has no downtown, Newhall could become the downtown. Make Newhall a destination point, not a through -route. 150,000 tourists a year come to Hart Park; make Newhall their. destination. • There was general disappointment in the "bad press" that Newhall receives versus other areas in Santa Clarita. • The community should explore a Newhall Metro line station and the associated parking and development that would go with it. There is a need for overnight RV camp sites either at Hart Park or in Newhall. • "Something new is needed!!" • "We need new ideas; what we have now is not working!" • Metro link and historic elements are assets. Provide incentives for architectural theme or historic theme development. 'There is not enough foot traffic!" There was general support for a Newhall farmers market. 54 S. ORGANIZATION / BUSINESS STRUCTURE • . There was general support for a parking district or business improvement district. 6. SAN FERNANDO ROAD NAME CHANGE • There was general opposition to changing the name of San Fernando Road, which was called Spruce Street prior to the 1940's. • A few people stated that they would support changing the name to Spruce Street if it would enhance the historic theme for Newhall revitalization, and if it could be implemented slowly over time. 7. CODE ENFORCEMENT/ INFRASTRUCTURE • There are too many absentee landowners on San Fernando Road and residential streets. • Area is already known as "Little Tijuana." • Clean up infrastructure, particularly, better drainage and curb / gutter / sidewalk, and the area will improve. • Establish a housing authority to manage rentals for absentee landowners. • Valley crowding yields people coming to this area who are of a criminal element and they are not Hispanic! Homelessness and over crowding must be addressed! Popular, well visited areas such as in LA. and on Lyons Avenue are not bothered by criminal activity only a block away due to constant pedestrian activity and positive image. • CDBG funds should be more appropriately allocated to Newhall (i.e. criticism of handiworker program). • There is much less street sweeping in Newhall than elsewhere in the city. • Day workers are here because people are hiring theml • City is backing away from "illegals" and the overcrowding issue. 55 CITY STAFF FOCUS GROUP JUNE 17, 1993 8:00 - 11:00 AM AT ORCHARD ROOM, CITY HALL After introductions, consultants Jeff Oberdorfer (JOA Architects) and Esther Aguilar (Aguilar and Associates) gave a brief overview of the downtown Newhall scope of work and the input received to date from Key Person and Key Group interviews. Comments clustered in categories for ease of reading: 1. TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION • PW stated that the current ADT of 40,000 vehicles dictates two options, if such traffic is to be accommodated: A) San Fernando Road to six lanes. B) San Fernando Road / Railroad Avenue one way couplet with each road 3 lanes with parallel parking. • PW supports parallel parking on San Fernando Road, but not angled due to safety concerns. • There is currently only one signalized intersection on San Fernando Road (i.e. at Market Street) between Lyons Ave. and Hart Park. PW does not support pedestrian crosswalks at non -signalized intersections. • Transit staff reported that Metro standards for station spacing is from 4-5 miles apart, which leaves Newhall as a perfect Metro location. • A Metro station would require Amtrak funding with linkages to San Diego. This would open up opportunities for infill housing near a Newhall Metro station. • A fixed route shuttle to south San Fernando Road connecting to residential area was also suggested. 2. MTA R.O.W. • The issue of unsightly rentals along the railroad R.O.W. was discussed. Karl J. Adamowicz, Real Estate Officer for Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority introduced himself and expressed his willingness to work with Santa Clarita staff. Karl explained that Metro purchased the R.O.W. about a year ago from S.P.R.R. and thatmany leases for R.O.W. land were already in place. In addition, although the leases are on a month to month basis, Metro is responsible for relocation costs when leases are terminated. 56 3. LAND USE • Developing special standards (for example: no setbacks required) for Newhall was discussed. • In response to a question from the consultants regarding Newhall commercial district boundaries, planning staff stated that during the General Plan process, staff suggested rezoning parcels south of the study area (on San Fernando Road) from commercial to residential, but that this proposal was opposed by property owners. • Due to land use patterns in the city, it was agreed that Newhall has a unique opportunity to attract tourism and focus on the area's history. • Attracting CaLArts students to Newhall for inexpensive rental space for art galleries, coffee shops and studios was discussed. • Fire Department representatives stated that focusing on rear alley parking was not a problem (from a fire protection perspective) because building depths are less than 150 feet. 4. ORGANIZATION AND BUSINESS STRUCTURE The need for a formal Business Improvement Association was stressed. 5. CODE ENFORCEMENT / DAY WORKERS The issue of overcrowding was discussed. Although city code enforcement is often called for regarding overcrowding, from a code perspective, overcrowding is an LA. County Health Department enforcement issue. Sheriffs Department representative stated that the Sheriffs foot patrol was very effective in mitigating issues with day workers. The feasibility of a Hispanic foot patrol and / or a storefront Sheriffs office in Newhall was discussed. 6. INFRASTRUCTURE • PW staff indicated that Newhall is situated in a flood area and that drainage problems are typical in the Newhall area. 7. SUMMARY • City Manager, George Caravalho offered a summary of key issues facing Newhall. A) How do we determine the major focus or vision for the area for a 10-20 year period, and then test this vision through economic analysis and surveys? B) Within the context of such a vision, how do we coordinate solutions to: - A Masters College entry on San Fernando Road. 57 Sidewalk and drainage problems. Metro R.O.W.; safety, and visual blight.. Recreation. - Circulation, Particularly the feasibility of a couplet. Parking on San Fernando, Road. Facade improvements. Long term improvements.at Hart Park. Area lighting. Public transportation. San Fernando Road as a city entryway at State Route 14 and Sierra Highway. 58 SENIOR CITIZENS' CENTER FOCUS GROUP JUNE 17, 1993 1:00 PM AT SANTA CLARITA VALLEY SENIOR CENTER Consultants Jeff Oberdorfer (JOA Architects) and Esther Aguilar (Aguilar and Associates) gave a brief introduction of the downtown Newhall scope of work and opened the meeting for discussion and comments. Comments clustered in categories for ease of reading: 1. PEDESTRIAN ISSUES Pedestrian safety was considered the top priority for seniors who live in Newhall. Automobile speeds on both Newhall Ave. and San Fernando Road inhibit pedestrian connections to local shopping and housing. A) Pedestrian crossing from senior center to Market Street should be facilitated by a pedestrian traffic signal and crosswalk striping (which has been removed). B) The possibility of reconfiguring the geometry of the offset Market Street across Newhall Ave. could be accommodated by utilizing the vacant land bounded by Newhall Ave., Market Street and Walnut. C) The existing traffic signal at San Fernando Road and Market Street does not allow enough "green time" for pedestrian crossing, and should be improved. • Seniors view Newhall as a "walking community," and view the area as a "safe" area. 2. AFFORDABLE HOUSING The need for additional affordable senior housing, particularly in Newhall was stressed. There are approximately 7,200. seniors in Santa Clarita Valley who need housing assistance. . Types of housing needed include: A) Independent living apartments. B) Board and Care facility. 3. PUBLIC TRANSIT • Seniors stated that public transit serving the area was adequate; "City busses are fine." A Metro link facility in Newhall with Amtrak connections to San Diego would be a "great addition." 4. ATTRACTION wm- • The area could use a discount pharmacy. • The area could profit from a wider selection of "non -mall" shops • There was strong support for a downtown Newhall farmers' market from 4-6:30 PM approximately. Seniors felt that fears of youth problems with a farmers' market were unfounded. • The reduction of post office services was seen as a major loss and there was strong support for restoring these services at the post office site, or at the senior center. HISTORIC PRESERVATION FOCUS GROUP JUNE 17, 1993 7:15 PM AT SAUGUS STATION After introductions, consultant Jeff Oberdorfer (JOA Architects) discussed the downtown Newhall scope or work. In addition to the general comments listed below, the group spent a good deal of the workshop session mapping historic sites on the study area map. It was decided that a positive next step might be a collaborative workshop with seniors and merchants. Comments clustered in categories for ease of reading: 1. TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION • Strong support for Metro link with San Diego 1 Fillmore Beach to Canyon Train. • East/ West corridor transportation must be resolved to define nature and purpose of San Fernando Road. 2. ATTRACTION • Western theme, possibly defined as "San Francisco Western." • Develop theme and guidelines for historic Newhall core and additional guidelines for San Fernando Road. • North of Lyons has many company houses built in the 1940's. • Downtown Newhall should be defined as a "neighborhood town" which encourages pedestrian circulation and amenities. • "If we make Heritage Junction a showpiece, look at the anchor it will make for downtown renewal." 3. LANDUSE AND GUIDELINES Lyons should have design guidelines which both link and buffer the areas of "North Newhall" and "South Newhall." Vacant lots should be purchased for future parking and / or building sites. • Supported bed and breakfast uses in Newhall. Downtown Newhall should have a specific plan which includes: 61 1) Design criteria and guidelines. 2) Community commercial boundaries. 3) Historic preservation l restoration guidelines. 4) Linkages to Heritage Junction and Hart Park and Metro link. 5) Economic / Market survey retail analysis. 62 WORKSHOP MAP .irf a � �s 7aakK�'"m NyytE � � '.i'0� 1411 N , Lip a I � ) �yf � 4YIdI V� C�yy�.WPR3 P,IpR tUIE� HART PARK c � mapec MPLUL 4 HyuOuf soll `. �. PE9 yll[gylw56 PD , (aW mwwj SUGGESTED STUDY AREA {. WII55EUGdy �EuSS - . DOWNTOWN NEWHALL HISTORIC PRESERVATION FOCAL CROUP PARTICIPATION PROGRAM PRELIMINARY HISTORIC STRUCTURES! SANTA CLARITA, CA 91355 PLACES MAP 0 WORKSHOP �IRPO/ERVIEW U GROUP ❑ CONSRDVIT,xT ❑ neEG 1 �� � 179'3"• 1 1 �.an Faed t SL i' -'�' � - '4W lTfLET'q�iGif.N[S pse�CCo%7A1! TM" IiE1ku1C ' f� � • ���4, ., ._ ` I—_._ Slwu•NaEC LOGEnON N� mC ; 14EA/E. HART PARK c � mapec MPLUL 4 HyuOuf soll `. �. PE9 yll[gylw56 PD , (aW mwwj SUGGESTED STUDY AREA {. WII55EUGdy �EuSS - . DOWNTOWN NEWHALL HISTORIC PRESERVATION FOCAL CROUP PARTICIPATION PROGRAM PRELIMINARY HISTORIC STRUCTURES! SANTA CLARITA, CA 91355 PLACES MAP 0 WORKSHOP �IRPO/ERVIEW U GROUP ❑ CONSRDVIT,xT ❑ neEG 1 �� � 179'3"• 1 1 JellO berdWIN & AS,ociclet 303Poketo Sheet 029.30PlDTYvrg JOA RESIDENTS EAST OF SAN FERNANDO ROAD FOCUS GROUP JUNE 23, 1993 6:30 PM AT AMERICAN LEGION HALL Consultant Esther Aguilar ( Aguilar & Associates) gave a brief introduction of the downtown Newhall scope of work and opened the meeting for discussion and comment: Comments clustered in categories for ease of reading: 1. CRIME • Sheriff should patrol the area on foot or bike, be more visible in the area, and become part of the community. • Too many men drink and become boisterous around the area of Pine Street & 7th Street and in neighboring alleys. Boisterous and drunk men loiter near Anawalt Lumber Company creating a potentially dangerous situation. • Some residents are hesitant to complain because they fear repercussions from those committing crimes. • The fence east of the eastern terminus of 3rd Street has been cut to allow male & female youths to get through each night after I p.m. until dawn to drink and party. This creates a neighborhood disturbance every night. Gang members, both female and male, cluster in the street comer of Market and Pine Street. 2. HOUSING Overcrowding exists in many homes creating problems for neighbors such as noise, trash, and bad behavior. Area needs more affordable housing. • Code enforcement should be more aggressive in the area. Renters should also be involved in the rehabilitation of the area. 3. REVITALIZATION 64 Revitalization can only be successful if education is part of the process. Fixing the exterior alone is not enough.. The problems within the community must also be addressed. • Metro link station in the area may be acceptable if part of a larger plan to renovate the area and should be studied further. • Revitalization should be an on-going process and should not be a one time effort. 4. PARTICIPATION • Some residents are reluctant to attend meetings because they have no confidence in the City. This may be related to City's inability to fix drainage problem. • Poor participation may also be due to fear of repercussion if neighbors complain about neighbors. • Participation may improve if a meeting.is held at Catholic Church after Sunday, 5 p.m. mass conducted in Spanish. Renters need to participate. Some feel indifferent because they don't own the property. • Tresierras market could be asked to pass notices of the next meeting. • Residents, property owners and renters both, should be united to continue to meet and plan for the community on an on-going basis. 5. PARK • Newhall Park serves the area and gives different cultures an opportunity to mix and helps prevent isolation of hispanic community. A park in the area east of San Fernando Road may lead to more crime. Maybe small playgrounds surrounded by fences would work and keep drunks and loiterers. away. S. FLOODING • Creek floods during rainy season. Residents use sandbags to attempt damage control. 7. RAILROAD TRACKS • Fence in tracks to restrict access to area. May result in better community relations due to more awareness of who is coming and going in the area. • Vacant area near tracks could be turned into green belt after fences are put in. 8. COMMUNITY SERVICES 65 Parks & Recreation or other organization should offer prevention classes to young women to prepare them to make correct choices in life that could help keep them out of gangs. Hispanic Seniors have been turned away from Senior Center and told that there was no room while Anglos were allowed in. They also were told that lunch was not free. 3] • COMMUNITY SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS FOCUS GROUP JULY S, 1993 NOON AT SAINT STEPHEN'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH After introductions, consultant Esther Aguilar (Aguilar & Associates) discussed information . gathered from previous workshops conducted on the Downtown Newhall Study. In addition to the general comments listed below, the group spent time discussing Reverend Lynn Jay's findings on a visit to the Bakersfield Homeless Center. Comments clustered in categories for ease of reading: 1. MULTI-PURPOSE SERVICE CENTER • Santa Clarita Valley needs a centralized, multi-purpose center to provide services to teenagers, the homeless, victims of crime, migrants, and general public, etc. • Facility should be located in a convenient location, not necessarily in the Newhall area. • Facility could be established in an existing building and must have proper security (e.g. in a repossessed HUD building). • Facility should have flexible arrangements.as a multi-purpose center that reflects the needs of the entire population. • Literacy and ESL component should be included in services provided by multi-purpose center. • City should cooperate with planning support (to include, if necessary variances for appropriate zoning) and with CDBG funding. 2. NEEDS ASSESSMENT • City needs a local food stamp outlet facility (nearest ones are in Pacoima and Lancaster). • There is no permanent shelter for victims of domestic violence, only short-term shelter • Transportation is needed to and from medical and other services • Over 3,000 families need medical services under Medical, but only 3 doctors in the valley accept Medical. 3. HOUSING • City needs more affordable housing, especially for singlo mothers. 67 • Section 8 program should be expanded in the City. • Landlords must be willing to be made accountable for their buildings in order for revitalization to be successful. • Infrastructure improvements must be made contingent on the cooperation of landlords. Overcrowding must be addressed without resulting in further homelessness. 4.. GENERAL COMMENTS • Newhall Study should include all of the Santa Clarita Valley. • Parks and streets seem to be more important to the City, than the provision of services to disenfranchised persons. • There is a lack of inter -demographic communication. • Inter -agency referrals are scarce (Library has literacy and EEL program (805) 259-6411). • Education is the foundation of problem -solving. • Revitalization can only occur if pride for the community is encouraged among residents. • A public/private partnership is needed to pool resources to provide community services. • Volunteers from the community, churches, and other organizations should become involved in a neighborhood clean-up campaign. • Community needs must be addressed before revitalization can occur. • Community involvement could be the seed needed to start effort of revitalization. • City should not impose "Valencia" standards on East Newhall. Survey Summaries LE COLLATED RESPONSES TO 50 SURVEYS COMPLETED BY AREA RESIDENTS WHO LIVE ADJACENT TO BUT OUTSIDE THE STUDY AREA SURVEY QUESTION (1): In your opinion; what are the three primary issues impacting the Newhall Study Area, in order of priority? RESPONSES IN THREE PRIORITY GROUPS: PRIORITY (1) • Visibility of businesses (due to traffic flow, poor signage and depressed appearances of buildings). Dispersing the large amount of loitering which occurs downtown and in nearby areas. Low quality of businesses Loss of businesses to Town Center and other mini -malls. • The deterioration of the area. • The area looks rundown, eye appeal is lacking. • Building code enforcement. • The lack of curb, gutter and sidewalks. PRIORITY (2) • General poor appearance. • Where there are empty lots, they are unkempt. • Widening San Fernando Road through the Study Area. • Decline in quality of shops and clientele due to loss of businesses via competition from satellite shopping areas which are more upscale. • Ethnically unbalanced. • San Fernando Road looks very unappealing. • Install curbs and gutters. • Overcrowding at apartments, houses and lack of parking on the streets. 70 PRIORITY (3) • The presence of individuals seeking day work on the edges of the area makes me somewhat uncomfortable stopping in the area. • Renovation versus replacement of older (historic) buildings. • Too much traffic. • Too many people in one residence. • Traffic is bad during rush hour. • Signs on the road have no design quality, looks tacky! The signs should be similar and have good design appeal. • Day workers. • General run down appearance created by low rent landlords. SURVEY QUESTION (2): In your opinion, what are the primary strengths or positive qualities which characterize the Newhall Study Area? RESPONSES, NOT PRIORITIZED: • Convenience (although the new Post Office on Lyons seems as though it can offer much more service, I was disappointed that I now have to deal with traffic on Lyons to get there). • There is a lot of individuality that seemingly caters to the majority of the population. • Small Town atmosphere, Western Walk of Stars. • Small Town/Main Street appearance. Old town feeling. • Smaller, Mom and Pop type stores with more personal businesses. • 1 like the old town atmosphere and the schools are all in one area. • This is an area with a great old fashioned western heritage. It should be cleaned up and renovated to reflect its rich history. It is a relatively small area and it is inclusive with Hart Park which is an asset. • Multi - culture. • Variety of Dwelling types. 71 Hart High and Newhall School are two major strengths. • The Western Walk of Fame should be brought out. SURVEY QUESTION (3): What programs or recommendations would you propose for strengthening the Newhall area? RESPONSES, NOT PRIORITIZED think that a cosmetic face lift of the buildings, making it easier to read the signs would help a lot as well as some plantings of trees and flowers. Maybe some king of cultural / historical event like a Cinco de Mayo Food Festival or California Gold .Rush or Wild West Day, etc. — with appropriate food, music, crafts, theatres, etc., block off the area to traffic for a day and let people walk and explore the shops. Remove poorly kept used car dealer on north side of San Fernando Road. Give building owners incentives to improve facades and improve types of businesses space is leased to. • Less automotive garages. We already have a swap meet at Saugus Raceway, we don't need another one in downtown Newhall. Drive to Garden Grove and look at their Main Street area! • If we could restore and clean the area up, we could have a great old time community. • It would be great to see curbs and gutter on residential streets that would stop people from parking on lawns and two or three deep on the streets. • Clean up and paint storefronts on San Fernando Road. • Install planters with easy care trees and flowers or just sturdy green plants could line San Fernando Road. • A hiring Center for day workers. • Rebuilding or condemning old or abandoned structures. • Underground overhead utilities where possible. • Punch Lyons Avenue through to Dockweiler with either an at -grade crossing or bridge at the Southern pacific Railroad tracks. • Eliminate all businesses adjacent to railroad tracks and east of San Fernando Road. Reuse this area as a bike path, landscaped with trees and meandering same with bike path for entire length to Soledad Canyon Road. • Review zoning with review of the trailer park on San Fernando Road and auto repair facilities. 72 Key Interviews Summaries (Names of individuals and groups interviewed have been intentionally deleted in order to focus on an overview of:ideas and comments rather than on individual opinions) 73 Key Interviews Summary/Downtown Newhall Focus of group or persons represented: Social Service Group - Businesses in Study Area Staff or Elected Official Resident in Study Area Primary Issues impacting the Newhall Study Area: Traffic & Parking • Improve San Fernando Road to improve traffic flow • Provide off-street parking • Improve Traffic on Newhall Avenue • Widen Streets • Pine Street ends - does not go all the way through Economic Development • Define a theme for the area in order to provide unity and a common mission • Perception of area as depressed keeps businesses out • Economic Development should include day workers • Lack of Restaurants • Declining Commerce • Lack of employment • Large group of poor people in small area (mostly hispanic & unemployed) Crime • Deal with the crime in the area in order to give area a safe reputation • Gang Control -turning point • Lack of youth activities to deal with borderline gang members Housing • Overcrowding housing & lack of affordable housing • Illegal immigration impacts housing and is ruining residential neighborhoods • Deterioration of older buildings tied to overcrowding in housing • Property values are going down • Large teenage population (41 %) Santa Clarita Valley, some of which are homeless & runaways - many end up in Newhall • Services for disadvantage needed (health, employment, business assistance, recreation, and counseling on delinquency and truaricy) 74 • Community services should include educational, police, & recreational Other • Day Workers • Strengthen basic community. relations Primary strengths or positive qualities which characterize the Newhall Study Area: • Small town atmosphere • • Well Built housing with character • Mature trees • Everything within walking distance • Good area to raise kids • Crime still low (at turning point) • Strong historical and cultural value (can be used to build up area) • Strong community identity • Community well established • Regional Park • Unique businesses not available elsewhere in the valley • Good neighborhood • Good people • San Fernando Road busy and potentially good for business • Walk of Western Stars • Senior Center • Senior housing • Rents relatively low (good opportunity for businesses starting out) • Multi -ethnicity is opportunity to cultivate community relations to strengthen area • Many active churches • City willing to help (clean-up programs and CDBG) Programs or recommendations proposed for strengthening the Newhall area: • Low interest loans • Improve climate for change • Clean park and develop for tourist • Develop area as tourist attraction • Make seniors in the area catalyst for improvements • Cater businesses to community's needs • Make area attractive to outside residents for shopping • Promote compatible vision of drivers commercial businesses • Crime prevention/gang intervention/neighborhood watch • Develop Downtown Newhall Merchants Association • Deal with absentee landlords • Upgrade housing stock • Eliminate overcrowding in housing • Provide more affordable housing 75 • Proactive code and safety enforcement • Keep day workers away from businesses • More clean-up programs • Local businesses could sponsor job fair for youths • More recreation for youths • Newhall should be centralized community • Improve traffic circulation and Parking (Open up Pine Street and address fast traffic on busy streets) Other Comments • Study other communities to see what works • Diversify shopping • Probation Department should follow through with cases • Landlords should improve management of housing • Tenants afraid of eviction if they complain about housing condition • City should follow-up on code and safety enforcement • Organized facility for day workers will not work • Day workers are single young males without traditional family ties in the community that live "bunched up" to afford rent • High rents in the area • Homelessness in Hispanics less due to tradition of extended families • Large Senior population • Barriers have been created between businesses and some segments of the population • State Highway (San Fernando Road) is the only road that feeds through the City • Infusion of new capital & activity is needed • Build upon historical theme • Community in the area needs to get involved • 2 reports a week on sub -standard housing • Resources are limited for proactive safety campaign • Need more senior affordable housing • Stop downhill plunge • Don't allow Walnut to tum into Chestnut • Previous plan to improve area by County failed • Illegal immigration impacts housing and businesses • Ethnic merchants have different way of doing business 76 Key Group Interviews/Downtown Newhall 1 Focus of group you represent Business Group Social Service Group Volunteer Group Government Commission Other In your opinion, what are the three primary issues impacting the Newhall Study Area, in order of priority? 1. Improve San Fernando Road to improve traffic flow 2. Provide off-street parking 3. Define a theme for the area in order to provide unity and a common mission 4. Deal with the crime in the area in order to give area a safe reputation In your opinion, what are the primary strengths or positive qualities which characterize the Newhall Study Area? -History of area provides strong community which includes film industry (western movies) -Strong link with historical society (make area into a tourist attraction by possibly linking the downtown with the historical aspects) -Walnut street & Victoria Plaza are positive areas that may be extended to provide continuity What programs or planning efforts would facilitate the goals of your organization? -Low interest loans -Make seniors in the area catalyst for improvements -Cater to community -Make area attractive to outside residents -Promote compatible vision of diverse commercial businesses -Deal with security -crime prevention -Develop downtown business association -Foster co -partnership investments -Deal with absent landowners Other Comments: -Deal with absentee landowners -Study other communities to see what works -On street parking insufficient -Diverse ethnic groups must work together -Review 1980 study by Wildan & Associates -model program 3 year plan 77 Key Group Interviews/Downtown Newhall 2 Focus of group you represent Business Group Social Service Group Volunteer Group Government Commission Other In your opinion, what are the three primary issues impacting the Newhall Study Area, in order of priority? 1. Traffic Congestion 2. Parking 3. Day workers 4. Housing In your opinion, what are the primary strengths or positive qualities which characterize the Newhall Study Area? Low crime rate now What programs or planning efforts would facilitate the goals of your organization? Provide an authorized and organized place to keep day workers away from businesses Other Comments: -Dealing with day workers would be the first step towards improving the area -Diversify shopping to attract more customers -Dumpster at American Legion Hall overflows.with communities trash, but locking resulted in trash being thrown in the alley -Deal with absentee landlords 78 Key Group Interviews/Downtown Newhall 3 Focus of group you represent Business Group Social Service Group Volunteer Group Government Commission Other In your opinion, what are the three primary issues impacting the Newhall Study Area, in order of priority? 1. Overcrowding housing - lack of affordable housing 2. Lack of employment 3. Lack of youth activities to deal with borderline gang members In your opinion, what. are the primary strengths or positive qualities which characterize the Newhall Study Area? -City interaction with revitalization -Block Grant Program -Clean-up campaigns What programs or planning efforts would facilitate the goals of your organization? -More clean-up programs -Local businesses could sponsor job fair for general population to boost morale -Develop youth employment program -More activities for youths -Affordable housing programs Other Comments: -Probation Department needs to follow through with cases -Landlords need to provide trash pick-up -Landlords should improve management -Tenants afraid of eviction -City should follow-up on code enforcement complaints in area -Day workers are transient, single, young males here on false pretenses & came without families and are now demoralized, drinking after hours, and some move on to the northern California, others live "bunched up in houses". -Food pantry services go to mostly unemployed Anglos -Organized facility for day workers will not work due to nature of day worker employer, because employer does not want to pay legal wages or fill out legal forms & day work is highly competitive and facility would not be used by all -High rent creates overcrowding (1 bedroom $600-700 monthly) 79 Key Group Interviews/Downtown Newhall 4 Focus of group you represent. . Business Group Social Service Group Volunteer Group Government Commission Other In your opinion, what are the three primary issues impacting the Newhall Study Area, in order of priority? 1. Large group of poor people in small area (hispanic & unemployed). 2. Large teenage population (41 %) Santa Clarita Valley, some of which are homeless & runaways - many in downtown Newhall. 3. Gang Control- turning point. In your opinion; what are the primary strengths or positive qualities which characterize the Newhall Study Area? -Overabundance of churches that are very active (St. Steven's' Rev. J. Lynn, Home -less project) What programs or planning efforts would facilitate the goals of your organization? -Low income housing (may be resisted by community) - Refurbish housing -More CDBG money needed to cover all priorities. Other Comments: -Homelessness less in Hispanics due to extended family tradition -Employment on Lyons Ave. consists of illegals hired over youths -Large turnover of labor on Lyons Ave. -15 out of 50 agencies represented at meeting for Resource list (sponsored to avoid duplication of services & to coordinate efforts) -Day Workers can't be faulted for self-improvement -Day worker facility ...Would it work? -Lack of Affordable housing in the area -Officer Phillips Uhles (213) 620-2335 Officer at Placerita Jr. High deals with gang prevention 81 Key Group Interviews/ Downtown Newhall 5 Focus of group you represent Business Group Social Service Group Volunteer Group Government Commission Other In your opinion, what are the three primary issues impacting the Newhall Study Area, in order of priority? 1. Perception of Newhall as a depressed area keeps businesses out and changes. 2. Strengthen basic community relations. 3. Day Laborers In your opinion, what are the primary strengths or positive qualities which characterize the Newhall Study Area? -Opportunity to cultivate inter -community cooperation by working through parameters of multi - ethnicity -Make area a standard for previous statement: -History associated with area can be preserved and used to build up area. What programs or planning efforts would facilitate the goals of your organization? -Redevelopment money addressing blight conditions -Target resources towards. renovations -Newhall should be a centralized community Other Comments: -Large senior population -Barriers have been created because businesses attend to own clientele -Area's historical framework is an opportunity -75% low & moderate below LA County median -Key is additional housing in Newhall -Participants of Senior Center are from SCV area wide -Affordable senior housing should be tied in with revitalization of area -Lowest crime rate -Local shopping -Focus Group opportunity 82 Key Person Interviews/Downtown Newhall 6 Key Person Business in Study Area Resident in Study Area . Property Owner in Study Area Staff or Elected Official Other In your opinion; what are the three primary issues impacting the Newhall Study Area, in order of priority? 1. Traffic in afternoon hours is bad 2. Illegal immigration impacts housing and is ruining residential neighborhood (See Walnut Street) 3. Deterioration of older buildings tied to overcrowding in housing. In your opinion, what are the primary strengths or positive qualities which characterize the Newhall Study Area? -Hart Park & Campground -Walk of western stars -Senior Center -Business area on Market -Opportunities for new businesses starting out - Rents low What programs or recommendations would you propose for strengthening the Newhall Area? -Improve traffic by studying other areas that have similar problems with solutions that work -Improve climate for change -Open Pine Street all the way through -Don't build new park and build up commercial instead of park Other Comments: -San Fernando Rd., State Highway, is only road that feeds through the City -Traffic travels 50-60 miles hr. -Dana Pt. is an example of area where similar problem has been fixed (marina is the catch that draws crowds) -See Vyto A. from City regarding overcrowding situation -Campground may be developed if possible to work with Cal Trans & railroad -July 4 area has parade -Streets are deserted after 8 PM -Residents are needed at all hours -Focus Group with Chambers Economic Development Sub committee -Day worker numbers are down (not big problem for store) -See Mike at AV rentals for big day worker problem -Take San Fernando Rd. from Cal Trans & have City take over 83 - Pine Street should be alternative road to San Fernando Rd. -Address code enforcement for housing 84 Key Person interview /Downtown Newhall 7 Key Person Business in Study Area . Resident in Study Area Property Owner in Study.kea Staff or Elected Official Other In your opinion, what are the three primary issues impacting the Newhall Study Area, in order of priority? 1. Homeless 2. Lack of Restaurants In your opinion, what are the primary strengths or positive qualities which characterize the Newhall Study Area? -Good neighborhood -Good people -Busy street good for business What programs or recommendations would you propose for strengthening the Newhall Area? -Clean park and develop -Develop area as tourist attraction -Attract tourist year-round Other Comments: -Open restaurants -Day workers not a problem -Would attend a focus group -Magic Mountain Parkway is dead at night & needs lights to improve transportation to Newhall area, otherwise, tourist get back on freeway and don't spend tourist money in City after leav- ing Magic Mountain 85 Key Person Interviews/Downtown Newhall S Focus of group you represent. Business Group Social Service Group Volunteer Group Government Commission Other In your opinion, what are the three primary issues impacting the Newhall Study Area, in order of priority? 1. Pine Street ends - does not go all the way through center 2. San Fernando Road should be widened 3. Parking & driving difficult In your opinion, what are the primary strengths or positive qualities which characterize the Newhall Study Area? Shopping, library, & other amenities within walking distance -Jimmy Dean's to east to San Fernando Rd. has unique businesses not available in SCV -Character of Old Newhall (large trees, older homes, hardwood floors) What programs or recommendations would you propose for strengthening the Newhall area? Better bus service information City sponsored recreation in the area Other Comments: -Current business location industrial Center - mostly automotive -Checked many industrial centers in City, but chose Newhall because of appeal of area -Wants to open showroom in area like Yellow Victorian Building for walk in traffic to be opened 3-8 PM -Newhall provided good starting opportunity -Provides retail gift baskets to corporate market now, not walk-in (since November, 1992) M, Key Person Interviews/Downtown Newhall 9 Key Person Business in Study Area Resident in Study Area Property Owner in Study.kea Staff or Elected Official Other In your opinion, what are the three primary issues impacting the Newhall Study Area, in order of priority? 1. Traffic on Newhall Avenue 2. Sweep Streets more often (litter in the Jack in the Box) In your opinion, what are the primary strengths or positive qualities which characterize the Newhall Study Area? -Small town atmosphere -Everything convenient -Everything within walking district What programs or recommendations would you propose for strengthening the Newhall Area? -Organize neighborhood watch -More affordable senior housing (especially for singles) -Traffic Control Other -Comments: -Resident of Orchard Village for 5 years -Dial a ride is unreliable -Day workers should be incorporated into the community -Churches within walking distance -Senior housing in area includes Orchard Village, Valencia Villa, & Newhall Terrace -Rent Control or similar program to promote affordable housing -$600 or higher is too high to pay for a 1 bedroom on subsidize income 87 Key Person Interviews/Downtown Newhall 10 Key Person Business in Study Area Resident in Study Area Property Owner in Study Area Staff or Elected Official Other In your opinion, what are the three primary issues impacting the Newhall Study Area, in order of priority? 1. Adequacy & condition of housing 2. Declining Commerce 3.- Services for disadvantage (health, employment, business assistance, recreation & counseling on delinquency and truancy) In your opinion, what are the primary strengths or positive qualities which characterize the Newhall Study Area? -History -Identity -Regional Park What programs or recommendations would you propose for strengthening the Newhall Area? -Provide recreational & play areas for the kids =Adequate circulation & parking -Business improvement should be based on lighting, or special design characteristics -Affordable. housing -Day worker theme such as facade improvements, special -Develop social services program addressing hispanic needs Other Comments: -Area is threatening to outsiders -Cultural change occurring in the area -Infusion of new capital & activity is needed -Area needs to find niche in the marketplace -Area needs specialty shops and restaurants -Historical theme in facades my help M Key Person Interviews/Downtown Newhall 11 Key Person Business in Study Area Resident in Study Area Property Owner in Study Area Staff or Elected Official Other In your opinion, what are the three primary issues impacting the Newhall Study Area, in order of priority? 1. Housing -upgrade and sustain 2. Economic Development - includes day worker, socio-economic problem (workers vs. those who hire 3. Community services should not be limited to police, etc., but should include educational & recreational (vs. limited resources) In your opinion, what are the primary strengths or positive qualities which characterize the Newhall Study Area? -Historical and cultural values -Community identity -Community well established What programs or recommendations would you propose for strengthening the Newhall Area? -Sustain & improve housing qualities -Community involvement & City Resources (e.g. Clean-up campaign) -Proactive safety campaign -Maintenance program Other Comments: -Can't throw money at the problem -Community needs to get involved -Provide jobs to day workers (similar problem in Sand Canyon) and not resolved by moving them out of the area (need to go beyond the visible problem) -Overcrowding is a code enforcement and Health Department problem -Tenants report sub -standard housing 2 a week on average -Resources not available for proactive safety campaign -Day workers provide services by working at jobs no one else wants -Poor environment creates attitude Key Person Interviews/Downtown Newhall 12 Key Person Business in Study Area Resident in Study Area Property Owner in Study Area Staff or Elected Official Other In your opinion, what are the three primary issues impacting the Newhall Study Area, in order of priority? 1. Widen Streets 2. Traffic on Newhall Avenue In your opinion, what are the primary strengths or positive qualities which characterize the Newhall Study Area? -Walking distance to everything -Safe during the day What programs or recommendations would you propose for strengthening the Newhall Area? -Neighborhood watch -No rent control -Less government interference -Better traffic control Other Comments: -Bring a Walmart to the area -Watch out for terrorists -More affordable senior housing -Would shop on San Fernando Road if stores catered to needs 91 Key Person Interviews/Downtown Newhall 13 Key Person Business in Study Area Resident In Study Area Property Owner in Study Area Staff or Elected Official Other In your opinion, what are the three primary issues impacting the Newhall Study Area, in order of priority? 1. Influx of illegal aliens deteriorating housing 2. Property values are going down 3. Day workers In your opinion, what are the primary strengths or positive qualities which characterize the Newhall Study Area? -Well built housing with character -Mature trees -Everything within walking distance -Less driving -Good area to raise kids -Safe neighborhood for the most part What programs or recommendations would you propose for strengthening the Newhall Area? -Deal with illegal aliens -More code enforcement to prevent overcrowding in housing Other Comments: -Keep area from going downhill -Don't allow Walnut to tum into Chestnut -Good area for young families 92 Key Person Interviews/Downtown Newhall 14 Key Person Business in Study Area Resident in Study Area Property Owner in Study Area Staff or. Elected Official Other In your opinion, what are the three primary issues impacting the Newhall Study Area, in order of priority? 1. Illegal aliens 2. Day Workers 3. Housing In your opinion, what are the primary strengths or positive qualities which characterize the Newhall Study' Area? -Small town atmosphere What programs or recommendations would you propose for strengthening the Newhall Area? -Loans for facade improvements may work -Enforce housing laws -Deal with overcrowding Other Comments: -Involved with previous efforts in the early 1989s, 14 years ago to improve area -Main shopping area is appealing to public -High crime in the area has caused many to businesses to leave area to move to better areas -Illegal immigration has affected area -Day workers are aggressive looking for work -Plans to move when current lease is up -Facility for Day workers would not work because the City should not support illegal activity -Improvements to area are 5 years to late and will not work (beyond turning point) . -Newer merchants have a different attitude about conducting business and have different priorities 93