HomeMy WebLinkAbout1993-09-29 - AGENDA REPORTS - NEWHALL PUBLIC PARTICIPATION (2)CITY OF SANTA CLARITA
INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM
TO: a fAkA&Sia
nd Jule bers of the City Council
FROM: 0, Manager
DATE: September 29 1993 /
p
SUBJECT: STUDY SESSION TOPIC: DRAFT REPORT FOR THE NEWHALL PUBLIC
PARTICIPATION PROGRAM
BACKGROUND
On March 9,1993, the Council authorized Jeff Oberdorfer & Associates, Inc. to conduct the Newhall
Public Participation Program. The public participation program was designed to determine the
needs and goals of the residents, social service providers, community organizations, property
owners, and businesses In the Downtown Newhall area. As part of the participation' program, the
consultant conducted key -person Interviews, resident surveys, meetings with various focal groups,
and consensus workshops.
On September 15, 1993, the consultant submitted a draft report of their findings for staff's
comments. A copy of this document Is Included within your agenda packet. Staff has had limited
Involvement with this process (other than to provide technical assistance) so that the consultant
could generate a program created and driven by the community with minimal staff influence. As
a result, the document reflects the concerns and visions of the various persons and groups that
participated In the process.
The consultant has Included a list of potential "Start -Up Projects" within the document. The
consultant will be available at this study session to present the report.
RECOMMENDATION
Review the document, provide comments, and direct staff to present the final document to the
Council for acceptance at the next regularly scheduled City Council meeting.
ATTACHMENTS
Draft Final Report
,wmA1s(dyMApv .
Agenda Item:
- DRAFT -
Citizen Participation Program for
Downtown Newhall
Prepared for
City of Santa Clarita
California
IN
Jeff Oberdorfer &Associates, AIA
Architects/Community Planners
Aguilar & Associates
Land Use Planners
September 1993
4
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 Ciarita 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 #7/13usiness 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 #14/13usiness in Study Area
93
•
Interview #15/City Cultural Arts Coordinator
94
VI. List of Maps
•
Project Area Workshop Base Map
2 x
•
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 Places 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 bf
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
the 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
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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 backup 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
3
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 "turn 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) Imprgve 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
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
consuitalion with city staff, a series of focal
group workshops were scheduled. Focal
I. Santa Clarita July 15' 1993
groups were defined as
groups with a
Organization for 7:30 - 9:00 PM
specific interest or expertise (in Newhall
Planning the S. C. V. Senior
issues) with whom a-facilitated dialogue or
Environment Center
"brain storming session" would be
conducted. The focal groups included:
Focal group. workshops were organized by
the consultants with assistance from
A. Santa Clarita
June 10, 1993
members of each focal group. The format
Valley Chamber
Noon -1:30 PM
for each focal group was intentionally
of Commerce,
Henry Mayo
informal to encourage as much interaction
Economic
Newhall
as possible. Participation in focal group
Development
Memorial
meetings ranged from six to forty
Committee
Hospital
participants. A summary of each focal
group workshop was prepared by the
B. Downtown
June 16, 1993
consultants and mailed to a contact person
Newhall
7:30 - 9:30 PM
for each group to check for accuracy and
Merchants
American Legion
completeness. For the Newhall Merchants
Hall
Focal group workshop summaries were
mailed to all participants. The East Newhall
C. City Staff
June 17, 1993
workshop was facilitated in Spanish.
8:00 -11:00 am
City Hall
The historic preservation focal group also
produced a map of significant historic sites,
D. Senior Citizens'
June 17, 1993
places, and buildings, which is included in
1:00 - 2:00 PM
this report. See page 63.
S. C. V. Senior
Center
The focal group workshop summaries were
collated into categories by the consultants,
E. Historic
June 17, 1993
such as: land use issues, marketing
Preservation
7:00 - 9:00 PM
issues, etc., for ease of comparison
Saugus Station
between each focal group summary.
Wherever feasible, the exact words of
F. East Newhall
June 23, 1993
participants were utilized and technical
Residents
6:30 - 8:30 PM
terms and planning jargon were avoided.
American Legion
Focal group workshop summaries are
Hall
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
Infrastruyture 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 participant 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.
A location adjacent to Hart Park and
Heritage junction was discussed due to the
ease of tourist and visitor access to
Heritage junction.
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.
ME
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.
Other suggestions included:
• Make San Fernando Road pedestrian
friendly with parking, grass strip,
medians with trees and grass; feed
traffic elsewhere.
• Model San Fernando Road after Glen!
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
These ideas were collated from key person
interviews, focal group workshops, and the
community consensus workshop; and
received strong support from a wide cross
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/ 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
DESIGN
GOAL: Develop Downtown Newhall
Design Guidelines with appropriate
western theme (or.historic turn of the
century theme).
A. Develop design standards for building
massing, materials, facades, signage,
streetscape, lighting and parking areas,
using a combination of complimentary
"western" 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.
i'
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 areas,
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.
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.
& 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
Clarity 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 Auqust 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 LA CAFETERIA
DE LA ESCUELA SUPERIOR WILLIAM S. HART
DE LA AVE. NEWHALL 24825
EL PROPOSITO: EI de revisor los objetivos, Ideas y at
mapa de conceptos prellminares generales hecho por
grupos an talleres de trabajo anteriores enfocados an el
centro comerical de Newhall.
FORMATO: Los participantes UabajarAn an pequefios
grupos y alcanzardn un consenso dentro del grupo con
relact6n a los esfuerzos clave de revitalizact6n para el
centro comercial de Newhall.
EI taller de trabajo en grupo to facilitar9 en ingl6s y
espatiol una firma planificadora de consultores bajo
contrato con la Ciudad de Santa Clarita.
SU PARTICIPACION ES IMPROTANTEI
15
CONCEPT MAP/ IDEAS
FOR NEWHALL ARORTPONARAFIER THAN
WILEY CANYON ROAD
cauumuenow
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• TO STATE MONTE 1/ E
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OVERALL THEMES
(NOT PRIORITIZED)
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DOWNTOWN N E W H A L L SUMMARY OF WORIUNG GROUP COMMENTS Je90bordadM6Assoclofes
PARTICIPATION PROGRAM AUGUST 19,1993 AT"E�6�9
SANTA CLARITA, CA 91366 QCdon,109513W JOA.tttttt
'
.. .Ero.msaLT• - µ � i
C
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.
■ 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 Femando 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.: Serpentineroad 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 41/2 - 5 miles between stations. There is an
existing Metrolink station approximately 4 1/2 - 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 C/arita 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 Gates/Needham project.
E. No station in downtown Newhall at Anawa/t. Use Anawa/t only for Park/Community Center.
F. Anawa/t Lumber possible only if a major road runs adjacent to it.
G. Consider Glaser property 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
1. 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
E/smere Canyon, should be extended northeast in Placirita Canyon to Melody Ranch.
C. Before blocking San Fernando Road and changing Road Patterns do the following: 1.
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
FOR NEWHALL I :GVi['WOX M/ FR TN.M
OVERALL TXEMES
(NOT PRIORITIEEDI t _..•�
Y+ O[YFLOI R
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Y CANTON R0A0 \ TRLMARKING
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i N .
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IS
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11
JUxIDR HIGH _
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NEWHALL ELEMENTARY
No mErKo —
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HERITAGE JUNCTION -
0
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DO
DOWNTOWN NEWHALL
PARTICIPATION PROGRAM
SANTA CLARITA, CA 91355
EXISTING TRAFFIC SIGNAL IN •*
DOWN TOWN NE SHALL
POSSIBLE METROLINK M
FACILITY
PEDESTRIAN LINKAGES [•[YSNYYAY•[•
ETREETSCAPE E DESIGN Z-•T�
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4
L L ° SO... AREESSiYOY AREA
ROADESTEMSIONS OR
CONN ECTINO ROUTES THAT 00 O O O O O O
IMPACT DOWNTOWN
NEWHALL
fOWNSOWN STUDY AREA MNMINWRMlM 111RIM
NISTONICOVERLRI
. COMNUN)TSCOMMERCIAL
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STYOY RREA BOUNDARIES
T\.
�v-1JJ TOtTATttOYlt 111
]TORR. NIONWAY
COMMUNITY WORKSHOP WORKING GROUP
CONSENSUS MAP, GROUP 03
AUGUST 19,1993
ONPAINID'J3o�u 2}�
' -f0 AVIN
❑ WORKSHOP
VIEW
❑ FOCUS GROUP
❑ CONSULTANT
FIELD
Q FIELD
01
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- sem
CONCEPT MAP/ IDEAS
FOR NEWHALL ARE'WNA"A
DESTINATION RATHER ERRM
[�f A ROUTE'
OVERALL THERE$
INOT PRIORITIZE DF IJ
. DEVELOP A'
WILEY CANYON ROAD I TRAFFIUPARNIN6 '
........
ROORR. LOR 6AN
Er�N DO ROAD
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/ DGLIOM THEME FOR
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xE W HALL YARN-----
BOYS A GIRLS CLUB--
P/°'� - YYaWa r EXISTING TRAFFIC SIGNAL IN
DOWNTOWN NEWHALL
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POSSIBLE ETRDLINx M
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ROAD EXTENSIONS ON
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NEWHALL
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DOWNTOWN NEWHALL COMMUNITY WORKSHOP WORKING GROUP AIr1LyRchxeKxvrrrXNvlyPbrvnlg
PARTICIPATION PROGRAM CONSENSUS MAP, GROUP#5 303PohMStW424J06
SANTA CLARITA, CA 91355 AUGUST 19,1991 .ADe.msan. JDA
'faa
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.
1. 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.
■ 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 Newhall as a full partner with Valencia.
D. There are 3 colleges in Santa Clarita that could be more integrated with marketing and
planning.
26
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 part of city.
}
B. Promote additional senior housing.
27
yCnll ULAK • I KANN I • rtUM0 I MAN • 011:T%,Lr-
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 Siena 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 I 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.
■ 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'9egals" only.
■ 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.
T•7
PROCESO DE PARTICIPAC16N DEL CENTRO COMERCIAL DE NEWHALL
- PROYECTOS DE "COMIENZO" EN NEWHALL
(Recomendaciones del consultor basados en talleres de trabajo anteriores)
META Establecer proyectos'de t6rmino corto que 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.
regla 20 de servicios subterraneos.
Investigar.la posibilidad de una oficina del Sherif y un programa de.vigilancia en
el vecindario.
Investigar una sepal en el cruzero para peatones en las calles Market y Newhall
y possible reconfiguraci6n de la Calle Market y su geometria en la Avenida
Newhall.
Preparar tomo los dibujos sean construidos (de fotografias aereas) del centro
comercial de Newhall de la Avenida Lyons hasta la Avenida Newhall, ( al sur) y
de la Avenida Walnut hasta la Avenida Railroad. Este mapa base debera incluir
Galles existentes, derechos de acceso y sobre de edificios. Tal mapa seria util
para:
A) Planes de adorno 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 PARTICIPA06N DEL CENTRO COMERCIAL DE NEWHALL
IDEAS DEANFRAESTUCTURA PARA NEWHALL
(Informacion seguri talleres de trabajo anteriores)
META: Mejorar la infraestructura como componente del programa de
revitalizaci6n del centro comercial de Newhall.
Investigar medidas preventives 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 an 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 qua 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 quinceaneras sin hogar y desertores de su hogar.
E) Casas en cooperativa 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 revitalizacion con programas educativos y creacion de empleos.
Presionar a los duerios de propiedades que estan ausentes para que mejoren la
propiedad residencial y eviten amontonamiento.
Continuar con el enforzamiento de.cddigo de seguridad y proactivo de salud.
Consideren establezer una autoridad de la vivienda o agencia similar para que
manejen propiedades de renta.
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
propietarics 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
(Information 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 esta "deprimida".
Facilitar la organizacibn de un distrito de obras publicas que mejoren los
negocios del centro de Newhall para ccordinar 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 en Newhall.
Desarrollen un program Cultural y de Artes en Newhall.
Promuevan el paseo de las estrellas de Oeste y desarrollen un paseo de
Recuerdos Histbricos enfocando personalidades famosas de Newhall.
Anime a que se utilize cama y almuerzo.
Considere la relation potential entre el propuesto proyecto Hondo, Gates y el
Museo Southwest y el centro comercial de Newhall.
Promueva Newhall tomo un lugar bueno para experimentar/comenzando un
negocio debido a renta baja.
Considere un terreno para vehiculos recreativos al sur del area de estudio.
34
PROCESO DE PARTICIPACION
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 Histbricas
Cases bien construidas con caracter
S.C.V. Centro para Ancianos
Buenos vecinos, buena gente
Un centro comercial para andar
Tiendas con individualidad
Tiendas pequenas 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 CIRCULAC16N EN NEWHALL
VEHICULOS, TRANSITO, PEATONES, BICICLETA
IDEAS
(Informacion 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 calles.
Defina la parte qua 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 an el San Fernando Road.
Desarrollar un plan coordinado meastro de estacionamiento fuera de la calle con luces
y r6tulos.
Investique la compar de parcelas que 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 que estan a la vista atractivos y
entradas traceras asi tomo r6tulos coordinados de informacion.
Extienda la Calle Pine hasta la caretera Sierra.
'Tome el camino San Fernando Road de Caltrans y que 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 cruze 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" an Market/San Fernando para mejorar el cruze de
peatones/ancianos an San Fernando Road.
0
Desarrollar un plan de la calle para peatones/bicicletas para la Avenida Newhall, al
norte de Lyons, adyacente a escuelas para mejorar la seguridad de
peatones/bicicletas.
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 lineas 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 coma 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 tineas de trafico en sada
direcci6n y una linea de traico al centro para dar vuelta (construida de
cemento a color o pavimentada con ladrillos), para reducir Ia 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.
PROCESO DE PARTICIPACION DEL CENTRO COMERCIAL.DE NEWHALL
OPCIONES DE LA ESTACION METRO -LINK
(Recomendaci6nes del consultor basados en talleres de trabajo anteriores) .
RESUMEN: Los estandares de MTA para la distancia entre las Estaciones Metro -Link
as 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 reinversion. Proveer
estacionamiento por la Avenida Railroad y aumentar la densidad para
oficinas, comercio, y casas.
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 DEPARTICIPACON DEL CENTRO COMERCIAL DE NEWHALL
IDEAS SOCIALES Y CULTURALES DE NEWHALL
(Informacion segue talleres de trabajo anteriores)
META: Para coordinar servicios sociales y culturales de actividades con el
Centro Comercial del Programa de Revitalizaci6n de Newhall.
Proveer actividades para la juventud, recreaci6n entrenamiento para trabajo y
oportunidades de empleo para impedir a la juventud qua practiquen
actividades an pandillas y queden sin hogar.
Desarrollar un peri6dico bilingue/boletin de informaci6n explicando los derechos
y obligaciones tanto de los duenos de propiedades Como los inquilinos y
comportamiento ilegal en 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 PARTICIPACION EN EL CENTRO COMERCIAL DE NEWHALL
IDEAS DE DISEAQ PARA NEWHALL
(Informacion segun talleres de trabajo anteriores)
META: Desarrollar lineas y guias para el diseno del centro comercial de Newhall
con diseno apropiado con terra del Oeste.
Desarrollar diseno estandar para edificio, materiales, fachadas, jardines, en las calles,
luces, r6tulos areas de estacionamiento usando una continuaci6n de estilos y disenos
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.hist6rico.
Desarrollar una avenida Newhall (al norte de Lyons) plan de jardines para la calle
enfatizando seguridad para peatones y bicicletas.
42
PROCESO DE PARTICIPACI6N EN EL CENTRO COMERCIAL DE NEWHALL
IDEAS PARA EL USO DEL TERRENO EN NEWHALL
(Informacion seg6n 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 as[ 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 la caile.
5) Encuesta del mercado/analisis de venta al par menor
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 yy animar el uSo de Cama y Almuerzo en Newhall.
Encaminar edificios de use mixto con incentivos para residencias en el segundo piso.
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 OBEROORFER, AIA
ESTHER AGUILAR
TOPICS:
SAN FERNANDO ROAD NAME CHANGE?
TRAFFIC d CIRCULATION
REVITALIZATION
AMERICAN LEGION HALL
24527 SPRUCE STREET
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 78
7:30 - 8:30 PM
THIS MEETING IS ONE OF MANY FOCAL GROUP WORKSHOPS FOR THE
DOWNTOWN NEWHALL AREA.
YOUR INPUT IS IMPORTANTI
45
NEWHALL PARR
B CIA a ¢uI f
HEWMALL
CONCEPT MAP/ IDEAS
JUNIOR NIGH
-- ' -- = TV i _ _ G uuTING TRAETIC IwNAL IX *
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SANTA CLARITA, CA 91366 GROUP WORKSHOPS �'b CRa'�JOmO9''�
AUGUST 19, 1993
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SANTA CLARITA VALLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
COMMITTEE FOCUS GROUP
JUNE 10, 1993 12:00 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 Sjn Fernando Road) to avoid the
higher costs of hotels and motels closer to Magic Mountain.
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• 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.
8. 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.
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NORTH OF LYONS FOCUS GROUP
JULY 14, 1993 1:00 PM
AT THE BOYS' AND GIRLS' CLUB
Consultant Jeff Oberdcrfer (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 inAM. 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.
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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.
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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."
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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.
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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."
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3. RENOVATION / REHABILITATION
Store front revitalization must be coordinated with creation of additional parking.
"Design standards are criticat 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 farmer's market.
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5. ORGANIZATION 1 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.al located 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 them!
• City is backing away from "illegals" and the overcrowding issue.
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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 that many 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.
Iii:
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 Cal. Arts 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 Sheriff's 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
e. 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
59
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.
A
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 / 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 / restoration guidelines.
4) Linkages to Heritage..Junction and Hart Park and Metro link.
5) Economic / Market surf ey retail analysis.
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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 corner 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 iri the area may 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.
6. 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
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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.
I
COMMUNITY SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS FOCUS GROUP
JULY 8, 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
i 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 single 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
M
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.
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:
I 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 truancy)
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 turn 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 reptesent, .
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 sponsoriob fairfor 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 Interviews/Downtown Newhall 7
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. 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 8
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.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 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
theme such as facade improvements, special
-Day worker
-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
[I]
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 turn into Chestnut
-Good area for young families
tA
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 1980's, 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 aggressivelooking 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
KEY PERSON INTERVIEW #15
JULY 14, 1993 2:30 PM
SUBJECT: Visual and Cultural Arts as a tool in,revitalizing downtown Newhall
GOAL: Develop a Cultural Arts Program for Newhall
OPPORTUNITIES AND IDEAS (partial list):
Cowboy Poetry Festival, March 1994.
Western film festival.
Performing arts events downtown.
1. A
Farmers' market, "Market" Street from Newhall Avenue to San Fernando Road.
Historic murals on sides of buildings depicting former historic buildings or events
(examples from City of Cambridge, Mass.)
Lease vacant parcels for cultural activities.
Encourage Cal Arts students and faculty to open studios, and galleries in Newhall.
Encourage western theme craft galleries, i.e. blacksmithing, etc.
Historic memory wall depicting famous personalities.
94