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Bordering the east side of Jeffrey Road, the Jeffrey Open Space
Trail is a recreation and open space corridor park that will span
Irvine's entire north-south length. This rare community amenity
will make it possible for residents (if they're so inclined and
can muster the stamina) to bicycle, jog or walk, literally, from
one end of the city to the other. As envisioned in concept, the
trail will ultimately link up with trails leading deep into the
vast preserved wildlands north and south of the city. Thus, a
unique sage to sea outdoor experience will emerge.
The trail will feature a dual trail system: an 11-foot-wide paved
trail for bicyclists, and a parallel five-foot-wide unpaved path
for joggers and walkers. At numerous points, the trail will pass
through cool wooded areas and open to small and large parks and
grassy meadows. At these picturesque junctures, residents will
be able to enjoy picnics, kite flying and other passive recreational activities.
The Jeffrey Open Space Trail is a key feature of Irvine's historic
Open Space Agreement, which was overwhelmingly approved by residents
in 1988. The landmark agreement enables the preservation of large
areas of land as phased, master-planned growth occurs in other
areas of the city.
The community played a vital role in shaping the Jeffrey Open
Space Trail. Community members participated in a series of
workshops that involved activities such as drafting the design
characteristics and special features of the trail. What emerged
is a clear consensus that the trail should feature a wooded,
natural ambience, providing a mix of recreational activities.
One issue the community discussed was the existing Valencia
Growers Packing House. Residents agreed that the preservation did
not justify the significant costs to renovate the facility.
The city agreed, and the structure will be removed to make way
for other amenities along the trail.
The Jeffrey Open Space Trail will unfold over time in tandem with
the new communities in North Irvine in a careful phasing over the
next 20 years. The first segment to be built will be adjacent to
Planning Areas 8A and 9A and is currently under construction.
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