West Newport Undergoing Transformation

Newport Beach officials have started a public works project in West Newport, reportedly worth seven figures, aimed at making the neighborhood greener and more pedestrian-friendly. The work is focused mainly on the stretch of River Avenue between 49th Street and Balboa Boulevard.

Before the project, residents complained of narrow, barely walkable sidewalks caused by inefficient parking and poorly planned driveways. Since improvements started, driveways have been made more spacious and the sidewalks have been widened to a more comfortable 6 feet.

Officials also pushed back residents’ walls which had encroached on public right of way, installing palm trees and shrubbery in some places to fill out the barren areas left by the change. Flowers and trees were also placed along curbs and sidewalks to soften the concrete surfaces.

The project cost the city a little over $1 million, which was obtained through a previous settlement with owners of waterfront homes whose patios had invaded public sand. Work is yet to be completed in the area, but both officials and residents agree that the change is already noticeable.

While many agree that the city took a good initiative in improving West Newport, a good number also believe that homeowners should as much part in the project. Some say that rules should be imposed on garbage management, lawn maintenance, a nd business construction to help keep the city’s natural, tourist-friendly appeal.

The goal of the project was not just to make the area more attractive, but also to promote a greener neighborhood. The addition of trees and flowers help add to the city’s street appeal, a feature well valued around coastal Orange County because of its high tourist and real estate activity.

 

Earlier in Newport Beach Real Estate News:
Newport Wins Award for Best Beaches
Newport Beach Home On Private Island Hits Market for $28 Million
Old Newport Beach Building To Be Transformed