HomeMy WebLinkAboutIVe_SummaryAttachment No. 5
Phase One Outreach Summary
PHASE ONE OUTREACH SUMMARY
City of Newport Beach General Plan Update
Prepared by Kearns & West, in consultation with Dudek
JULY 2024
Table of Contents
Executive Summary
Getting the Word Out
Digital Engagement
Pop-Up Outreach
Collaboration with the
General Plan Advisory
Committee
01
04
04
10
24
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1
SECTION 1
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The City of Newport Beach (City) has embarked on a
comprehensive General Plan Update process. The success
of the General Plan Update relies on the involvement of
community members, residents, property owners, and
other stakeholders in shaping and forming the vision, goals,
and policies of the General Plan. The City is committed to
conducting a transparent, inclusive, and meaningful planning
process that values your input.
This document summarizes phase one
outreach conducted for the Newport
Beach General Plan Update. Phase one
of outreach, March 15 to June 12, 2024,
focused on Background Analysis and
Visioning (see Figure 1). Specific sections
of the summary include:
»This Executive Summary, including an
overview of a General Plan, outreach
types, engagement reach, and key
themes
»Getting the Word Out, including paid
advertisement, social media, and
notification types
»Digital Engagement through Newport,
Together website, including visitors and online survey contributors
»Pop-Up Outreach, including a schedule, locations, and key themes
»Collaboration with the General Plan Advisory Committee (GPAC), including
subcommittee reports
About the General Plan Update
A General Plan is a long-term document that guides future development and is
the foundation for decision-making for a community’s physical development.
State law requires the General Plan, which local governments use to make
decisions about land use, housing, transportation, infrastructure, and parks,
among other issues (see Appendix A). While planning horizons vary, the General
Plan typically sets the direction for the next 20-30 years.
A General Plan
contains goals
that set values
and direction,
policies that guide
decision-making,
and programs to
carry out the actions
needed to
NEWPORT, TOGETHER.2
Outreach Types and
Engagement Reach
Phase one outreach was designed to be
varied in depth, impact, and reach to allow
community members to participate in the
planning process in ways that suit their
interest level and availability. Outreach types
for phase one included:
»Collaborating with the GPAC and GPAC
subcommittees
»Digital engagement through the Newport,
Together Website
»Pop-up outreach events in the Newport
Beach community
Through pop-up events and
digital engagement, 5,987 community members were engaged. In addition, 45,158
residents were reached
with notifications and paid
advertisements.
Project team and City staff setting up for an event at
Marina Park for a local High School water polo tournament.
3EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
BACKGROUND ANALYSIS + VISIONING
WEBPAGE, DIGITAL ENGAGEMENT, SOCIAL MEDIA, NEWSLETTERS
Community Engagement and Outreach Plan
Research and Data Analysis
Online Survey
GPAC + GPUSC Meetings
Pop-up Events
Mailers
Youth Engagement
Paid Advertisements
Development of General Plan
Online Survey
GPAC + GPUSC Meetings
Pop-up Events
Mailers
Environmental Analysis
Virtual Open House
In-Person Open House
Adoption Hearings
POLICY DEVELOPMENT + GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT
Summer 2023 - Spring 2024 Spring 2024 - Spring 2025 Spring 2025 Summer 2025
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL
QUALITY ACT (CEQA)HEARINGS
1 32 4
P H ASE P H ASE P H ASE P H ASE
ENGAGEMENT METHODS + ACTIVITIES
FIGURE 1. PHASES OF COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND OUTREACH
WE’RE HERE
Overall Key Themes
Throughout phase one outreach, key themes
were identified based on community
feedback at pop-up events and digital
engagement. Key themes are listed below.
See Sections 3 (Digital Engagement), 4 (Pop-
up Outreach), and 5 (Collaboration with
GPAC) for details on additional input
received.
»Maintain and enhance the character and
charm of Newport Beach.
»Maintain and invest in beach and harbor
maintenance.
»Improve docking space and reevaluate
docking fees.
»Support and invest in bringing in more
local, small businesses, especially along the
Pacific Coast Highway.
»Limit the development of high-density
buildings and maintain the village-like feel.
»Love the City programs; increase City
programs, especially for families with
children.
»Improve the local parks and create more
dog parks.
»Invest in more community amenities, such
as a community pool and pickleball courts.
»Improve parking accessibility along the
beach.
»Make Newport Beach more accessible and
walkable.
NEWPORT, TOGETHER.4 GETTING THE WORD OUT
TABLE 1. PAID ADVERTISEMENTS
TABLE 2. SOCIAL MEDIA
SECTION 2
GETTING THE WORD OUT
During Phase One of outreach, various notification methods were used to
reach the Newport Beach audience. Advertisements in local newspapers and
collaborative efforts with the City’s marketing team were used to announce
pop-up events strategically, share information about the General Plan Update,
and publicize opportunities to get involved for residents, business owners, and
community members. As shown in Tables 1 and 2, as of June 12, advertisements,
social media, and notifications have reached 45,158 residents, community
members, and stakeholders.
DIGITAL NEWSPAPER RUN TIME REACHED
Stu News March 29 to April 29 22,950
Daily Pilot March 29 to April 29 11,886
PRINT NEWSPAPER PUBLISHED REACHED
Daily Pilot March 31 33,000
TYPE NUMBER OF POSTS DATES REACHED
Instagram 4 March 22, April 4,
April 10, April 17 4,910
Facebook 4 March 22, April 4,
April 10, April 17 1,374
Notifications
have reached 45,158 residents,
community
members, and
stakeholders.
Other Notification Methods
»City Manager’s Friday Newsletters on
March 15 and May 17 reached 4,083
residents.
»A circulating graphic on the City of
Newport Beach website homepage
directed 217 visitors to the Newport,
Together website.
5DIGITAL ENGAGEMENT
SECTION 3
DIGITAL ENGAGEMENT
- NEWPORT, TOGETHER
WEBSITE
A dedicated website was launched
to inform the community about the
General Plan Update process and offer
ongoing ways to get engaged. The
website was designed in collaboration
with City staff and the GPAC outreach
subcommittee. Newport, Together
was announced to the community on
March 15, 2024, via the City Manager’s
Friday Newsletter. As of June 12,
the website has had 5,527 visitors.
A comprehensive list of the website
sections and resources can be found
in Appendix B.
We Want to Hear From You!
As part of the Newport, Together
website, an online questionnaire and
interactive map were launched on
March 15, 2024, to capture what is
essential to community members.
The questionnaire and map were
designed as additional tools to
define Newport’s vision for the
future collaboratively. The following
section presents a summary of key
themes and responses as of June 12,
2024.
Community member scanning website
QR at pop-up event to learn more and
provide input via the online questionnaire
NEWPORT, TOGETHER.6
Online Questionnaire
The questionnaire has three open-ended questions about
participants’ picture of the next 20 years in Newport Beach, what
they would like to see added, and three things they love about living,
working, or recreating in the city. As of June 12, the questionnaire had
received 72 responses.
»When you picture Newport Beach in the next 20 years, what are
three words you would use to describe it?
Top Five Words: Clean, Beautiful, Sustainable, Safe, Vibrant.
Participants described their picture of Newport Beach in three
words (See Figure 2).
FIGURE 2.
WORD CLOUD
VISUALIZATION
OF PARTICIPANT
RESPONSES.
7DIGITAL ENGAGEMENT
»What would you like to see in Newport Beach that isn’t here today? Participants shared
their thoughts and ideas for additions to their community. The following are the primary
themes:
• Electrification and Sustainability: Install electric vehicle (EV) chargers, move towards
electrification of houses and buildings, limit single-use plastics, and educate the
community on local products.
• Public Transportation: Increase frequency and stops of current transportation; add
transportation routes to connect all parts of the city, including the peninsula and
airport; limit beach parking to encourage transportation.
• Open Spaces, Parks, and Recreation: Clean up the north end of Back Bay; create more
recreation and sports facilities, such as pickleball courts and running tracks; and create
family—and community-oriented spaces for all to enjoy.
• Bike and Pedestrian Safety: Add protected and dedicated bike lands; limit e-bikes;
connect southern beaches.
• Reduce Noise: Decrease noise on high-traffic roads; monitor noise from the airport.
• Restaurants and Entertainment: Add beachfront entertainment, high-quality
restaurants, and more outdoor dining.
• Other: Create opportunities to reduce homelessness, such as shelters; add dog
beaches; foster transparent communication between the City and community; maintain
Newport Beach.
»What are three things you love about living, working, or recreating in Newport Beach?
Top Five Responses: Beach, Harbor & Bay; Cleanliness; Nature & Parks; Residents;
Restaurants
(see Figure 3).
FIGURE 3.
WORD CLOUD
VISUALIZATION
OF PARTICIPANT
RESPONSES.
NEWPORT, TOGETHER.8
FIGURE 4.
INTERACTIVE MAP
WITH PARTICIPANT
MARKERS.
Newport Beach Community Vision Map
Below the website's online questionnaire is an interactive map asking
contributors to leave markers and comments across a city map (see
Figure 4). Marker options include Places/Things I Love, To Improve,
Opportunity Area, and General Comment. As of June 12, the interactive
map had received 120 contributions (see Figure 5).
Places/Things I Love
53.3%
To Improve23.3%
Opportunity
Area
15%
General Comment
8.3%
FIGURE 5. INTERACTIVE MAP RESPONSES
PLACES/THINGS I LOVE
»Parks, Recreation, and Nature: Upper
Newport Bay Regional Park, nature
trails and parks, Beachfront and Irvine
Terrace Park playgrounds, Back Bay
Trails
»Beaches and Community Resources:
There are accessible beaches, a public
library, Bayside Beach, and a ferry
between Balboa Island and Newport
Peninsula.
»Villages and Neighborhoods: Lido
Village, Balboa Island, Spider Island
»Arts and Culture: Newport Theater,
Sherman Library and Gardens
»Other: Legacy restaurants near the
beach and bay, a feeling of community,
the John Wayne (SNA) Airport
9DIGITAL ENGAGEMENT
TO IMPROVE
»Airport: Protect residential areas and do
not expand the airport; limit noise.
»Beaches: Preserve beaches and reduce
erosion.
»Bicycle Safety and Access: Improve bike
lanes; convert MacArthur Sidewalk into
a bike path; add protected bike lanes,
especially around right turn lanes and along
PCH.
»Pedestrian Safety: Add flashing crosswalks
and refuge islands; implement red curbs
or bulb-outs near crosswalks to reduce
parking and blind spots; prioritize
walkability.
»Parking and Traffic: Reduce peninsula
congestion; slow traffic on the Pacific Coast
Highway (PCH) between Jamboree and
Irvine Terrace; paint curbs red where no
parking is allowed; clearer parking signage;
encourage rideshares and public transport
to the beaches.
»Redevelopment – Park and Nature: Convert
empty lots into open public spaces or
parks; add and improve playgrounds;
maintain walking paths and viewpoints;
consider locations for a community pool
»Roadways: Reduce noise and traffic density
on Balboa Blvd; clear signage on right
turns; improve Pacific Coast Highway as
through road.
»Sidewalks: Add lighting along sidewalks
(Ocean Blvd and Cameo Highlands); repair
uneven paths; create wide sidewalks; add
new sidewalks near Crystal Cove Shopping
Center.
»Other: Add bus/trolley loop along Pacific
Coast Highway, Newport Coast, and
Mariner’s Mile; keep small, local businesses
and reduce chain stores.
OPPORTUNITY AREA
»Multi-Use Spaces: Develop spaces that
include housing, shopping, and office
space; limit heights of new buildings;
redevelop parking lots near the beach to
prioritize shops and restaurants.
»Housing: Include affordable workforce
housing; new development should align
with area plans.
»Parks, Nature, and Recreation: Open a
public running track; consider multiple uses
for parking lots after hours, such as a roller
rink; expand the Arroyo Park playground.
»Traffic and Density: Add shuttles and buses
to transportation system, such as a stop at
the Sunset Ridge Parking area; slow traffic
on Pacific Coast Highway and add space
for pedestrians and cyclists.
»Other: Maintain the character of Newport
Beach.
GENERAL COMMENT
»Noise: Control and limit flight times from
the airport; slow traffic to reduce noise in
residential areas.
»Bicycle Safety: Clearer signage around
Newport Beach, specifically near Crystal
Cove and Poppy.
»Pedestrian Safety: Consider researching
cost-effective alternatives to the ‘West
Coast Highway Improvements and
Pedestrian Bridge’ project; prioritize
slowing traffic to create a safer
environment for pedestrian crossings.
»Traffic: Pacific Coast Highway is high-
density; please do not increase the number
of lanes; transition Balboa Blvd to fewer
lanes and implement calming measures on
the amount of through traffic
NEWPORT, TOGETHER.10
SECTION 4
POP-UP OUTREACH
In collaboration with the GPAC and City staff, six (6) community events were
identified for pop-up engagement to hear from a diverse range of Newport
Beach residents and community members. Pop-up events are designed to meet
the community where and collect feedback from the community in locations they
typically visit instead of gathering community members in a designated place. As
Phase One focused on Background Analysis and Visioning, the activities for each
pop-up event emphasized hearing what residents and community members love
about their city, what they would ask to stay the same or change, and what they
would add to the city’s future. The pop-up schedule is presented in Table 3. The
following section provides an overview of each activity and available materials,
the number of community members engaged, and key themes heard. Additional
input can be found in Appendix C.
TABLE 3. POP-UP EVENT SCHEDULE
EVENT AND LOCATION DATE AND TIME
Mayor’s Egg Race
Civic Center Park: 100 Civic Center Dr, Newport Beach
Saturday, March 23
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Newport Beach Farmers’ Market
104 McFadden Pl, Newport Beach
Sunday, March 31
9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Environmental Nature Center – Native Plant Sale
1601 E. 16th Street, Newport Beach
Saturday, April 13
10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Corona del Mar Farmers’ Market
3201 CA-1, Corona del Mar
Saturday, April 20
9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Central Library Pop-Up
1000 Avocado Ave, Newport Beach
Monday, April 22
2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Battle in the Bay – Water Polo Games
1600 W Balboa Blvd, Newport Beach
Wednesday, May 22
3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
POP-UP EVENT SUMMARY 11
NEWPORT, TOGETHER.12
EVENT ONE | MARCH 23, 2024
MAYOR’S EGG RACE
ADULTS
CHILDREN
140
100+
25%
Engagement Activity
Families engaged in a rock painting
activity where children painted on rocks
with chalk markers while their parents
were engaged by staff. Participants
were asked questions like “What is your
favorite thing about Newport Beach/your
neighborhood?” or “What do you like to
see in your neighborhood?” Staff provided
a few options of things community
members like to do or places they like to
go to help stimulate responses. Photos
were taken of the painted rocks to keep
track of the images and responses.
Number of people engaged
Number of People that had heard
about the GPU Update
Newport Beach kids painted egg-shaped rocks & shared what they loved
to do with their families.
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13POP-UP EVENT SUMMARY
MAYOR’S EGG RACE
EVENT THEMES
Below are some key themes that emerged from the
feedback that participants shared.
• Maintaining the character of Newport Beach
• Continue to offer city Programs for Children.
• Park Improvements, such as adding more shaded areas.
• Create opportunities for community involvement for all ages.
• Increase restaurant and food options.
• Create more parking.
• Participants shared that they liked the City’s social media presence
and communication.
Newport Beach families shared thoughts on what they liked or would change in the city.
NEWPORT, TOGETHER.14
EVENT TWO | MARCH 31, 2024
NEWPORT BEACH FARMERS’ MARKET
PEOPLE*50
Engagement Activity
Participants engaged in a comment process
by putting ideas in up to four (4) jars. Each
jar was decorated with a sail and labeled
according to category: recreation, harbor &
bay, arts & culture, and other. Participants
were given a small sail to write on to
provide their input. Participants answered
the question, “As Newport Beach sails into
the future, what would you envision?” and
placed their answers in each respective
boat. Participants were invited to add
thoughts and feedback to as many jars as
they wanted. Below are the themes gathered
from conversations with participants and
written responses.
Number of people engaged
Newport Beach sails into the future activity set up.
*Heavy rain impacted the overall
attendance at the Farmers’ Market
thus affecting participant engagement.
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15POP-UP EVENT SUMMARY
NEWPORT BEACH FARMER’S MARKET
EVENT THEMES
Below are some key themes that emerged from the
feedback that participants shared.
• Maintaining the character of Newport Beach.
• Beach Improvements, including keeping it clean and
offering accessible parking
• Ensure safety is a key priority
• Invest in the harbor and bay, including, more small
businesses near the beach, fewer short-term rentals, and
more job opportunities
• A few participants expressed a desire for more public
transit.
Project team member chatting with
Newport Beach residents on hopes and
visions for the future of the city.
COMMUNITY
MEMBERS
Participants included residents, specifically
with young families, and those who
frequently visit the Environmental Nature
Center for its various programs.
NEWPORT, TOGETHER.16
EVENT THREE | APRIL 13, 2024
ENVIRONMENTAL NATURE CENTER
NATIVE PLANT SALE
55+
Engagement Activity
Participants were able to plant a seed
in a small pot. The seeds represented
different areas for the City to focus on in
the future as it relates to natural resources.
Once a seed was selected and planted,
participants could take Polaroids with the
pots. Staff encouraged participants to take
photos of their plants as they grow and tag
“NewportTogether” on social media.
Number of people engaged
Community members shared ideas and thoughts on what they wanted to see in the future of
Newport Beach, especially around natural resources.
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17POP-UP EVENT SUMMARY
NEWPORT BEACH FARMER’S MARKET
EVENT THEMES
Below are some key themes that emerged from the
feedback that participants shared.
• Create mini-nature reserves in unused lots or center medians.
• Create natural playgrounds for kids and families.
• Ensure clean water for future generations.
• Continue coastal conservation efforts for future generations.
• Participants shared their appreciation for the Environmental Nature
Center and often visit with their kids.
• Creating open spaces and parks near restaurants for families.
• Improving parks and bike paths.
• Making family programming/City resources more known.
Wall of polaroid images depicting each planted
seed and idea for the future of the city.
Families planted a seed for the future of
Newport Beach and share an idea.
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NEWPORT, TOGETHER.18
EVENT FOUR | APRIL 20, 2024
CORONA DEL MAR FARMERS’ MARKET
COMMUNITY
MEMBERS
70+
Engagement Activity
Participants engaged in a comment process
by putting ideas in up to four (4) jars. Each
jar was decorated with a sail and labeled
according to category: recreation, harbor &
bay, arts & culture, and other. Participants
were given a small sail to write on to
provide their input. Participants answered
the question, “As Newport Beach sails into
the future what would you envision?” and
placed their answers in each respective
boat. Participants were invited to add
thoughts and feedback to as many jars as
they wanted. Below are the themes gathered
from conversations with participants and
written responses.
Number of people engaged
Farmers market attendees providing comments and thoughts on the future of
Newport Beach with the project team.
The majority of community members were
local Corona del Mar residents, while the
rest were frequent visitors to the Newport
Beach area. About a quarter of residential
participants had heard about the General
Plan Update prior to the pop-up event at the
Farmers’ Market.
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19POP-UP EVENT SUMMARY
CORONA DEL MAR FARMER’S MARKET
EVENT THEMES
Below are some key themes that emerged from the
feedback that participants shared.
• Keep the bay accessible for all residents.
• Consider parking strategies to encourage shopping along the
corridor while protecting the residential neighborhoods, including
paid parking, metered parking.
• Support for Local Small Businesses
• Maintain Corona del Mar’s small-town feeling.
• Maintain and clean up the beaches.
• Increase safety for bikers and drivers.
• Make Newport Beach more pedestrian-friendly.
• Limit development of high-density buildings.
• Appreciation for City Programs.
Project team explaining the General Plan Update process and inviting community members to leave
a comment.
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NEWPORT, TOGETHER.20
EVENT FIVE | APRIL 22, 2024
NEWPORT BEACH CENTRAL LIBRARY
COMMUNITY
MEMBERS
35
Engagement Activity
Participants engaged in a comment process
by putting ideas in up to four (4) jars. Each
jar was decorated with a sail and labeled
according to category: recreation, harbor &
bay, arts & culture, and other. Participants
were given a small sail to write on to
provide their input. Participants answered
the question, “As Newport Beach sails into
the future what would you envision?” and
placed their answers in each respective
boat. Participants were invited to add
thoughts and feedback to as many jars as
they wanted. Below are the themes gathered
from conversations with participants and
written responses.
Number of people engaged
Pop-up table outside the library entrance, near the future lecture hall, talking with
residents on their thoughts for the future of Newport Beach.
Those who engaged with the pop-up
consisted primarily of Newport Beach
residents as well as with residents from
surrounding cities such as Irvine who
expressed appreciation for the Central
Library.
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21POP-UP EVENT SUMMARY
NEWPORT BEACH CENTRAL LIBRARY
EVENT THEMES
Below are some key themes that emerged from the
feedback that participants shared.
• Expressed appreciation for community events announced in the
Newport Navigator.
• Investment and clean up the Back Bay.
• Beach Improvements, including more shade and cleanliness.
• Incorporation requirements on development, such as incorporate
high restrictions, require open spaces.
• Limit traffic on Pacific Coast Highway.
Project team explaining the
General Plan Update process
and how the community can
get involved.
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NEWPORT, TOGETHER.22
EVENT SIX | MAY 22, 2024
BATTLE IN THE BAY
ADULTS AND
CHILDREN
110+
Engagement Activity
Participants were tossed a beach ball with
questions related to Newport Harbor and
Bay written on the ball. When a participant
caught the ball, they could answer the
question closest to their left thumb. Staff
recorded responses and prompted with
further questions to engage in deeper
conversation. Questions included:
»What do you like about the Harbor and
Bay?
»What do you want to see changed about
the Harbor and Bay?
»What would you like to see maintained in
the Harbor and Bay?
Number of people engaged
Project team and City staff talking with event attendee’s on the harbor, bay, and
beaches of the city
There was a total of around 450 attendees
making the pop-up event one of the highest
in levels of engagement with the community.
Participants were nearly all Newport Beach
residents, and most were younger families
with children in the local schools.
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23POP-UP EVENT SUMMARY
BATTLE IN THE BAY
EVENT THEMES
Below are some key themes that emerged from the
feedback that participants shared.
• Increase the number of community-building events, such as concerts,
volunteer activities.
• Create additional community amenities, such as a community pool,
pickleball courts, lights for basketball courts.
• Maintain and improve parks and recreational facilities, such as dog
parks, summer camps, trails.
• Beach and harbor maintenance, including water quality and clean
ups.
• Improve docking space and fees.
• Maintain neighborhoods that have a village-like feel.
• Invest in and improve safety measures.
• Improve transportation and accessibility, such as a public trolley, free
parking, widened sidewalks for pedestrian traffic.
• Preserve community identity.
Project team and City staff
collecting comments and feedback
from event attendees.
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NEWPORT, TOGETHER.24
TABLE 4. PAC SUBCOMMITTEE SCHEDULE
SECTION 5
COLLABORATION WITH
THE GENERAL PLAN
ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Coinciding with pop-up outreach and digital engagement, the GPAC
subcommittees met to review the Existing Conditions and Background Analysis
reports prepared by the consultant team (see Table 4). Meetings were conducted
in a hybrid format, virtually on Microsoft Teams and in-person at 100 Civic Center
Drive in Newport Beach. Each meeting focused on the background reports
prepared by Dudek, the technical consultant team. Following each meeting,
an after-action report was created to summarize the key discussion topics
and recommendations. The subcommittee’s chair presented each after-action
report to the whole GPAC at its monthly meeting. Based on the subcommittee’s
presentation and endorsement, the full GPAC reviews and determines if the
background report is ready to be added to the Newport, Together Resource and
Document Library on the website. The after-action reports are on the City of
Newport Beach’s GPAC webpage.
The technical consultant team collected feedback from each subcommittee
meeting and after-action reports. Below is a consolidated list of the overall
themes of what was heard. The order does not represent priority.
SUBCOMMITTEE TOPIC DATE AND TIME
Vision Statement Tuesday, January 30 at 4:30 p.m.
Outreach Wednesday, January 31 at 5:00 p.m.
Recreation and Natural Resources Wednesday, March 6 at 5:00 p.m.
Safety & Harbor and Bay Tuesday, March 12 at 4:00 p.m.
Recreation and Natural Resources Wednesday, April 10 at 4:30 p.m.
Noise Tuesday, April 23 at 3:00 p.m.
Art, Cultural, and Historic Resources Tuesday, April 23 at 4:00 p.m.
Land Use Thursday, May 23 at 3:30 p.m.
25COLLABOARATION WITH GPU ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Resilience and Adaptation
»Balancing nature-based measures and
conventional physical infrastructure.
»Protecting and improving recreational and
drinking water quality.
• Santa Ana River coordination
• Wetland restoration
• Groundwater recharge
• Groundwater intrusion
»Beach nourishment and erosion
»Sea level rise plan
»Insurance for at-risk properties
»Mitigating heat island effect (e.g., street
paving and roof materials and cooling
areas)
»Consider utilizing adaptation pathways,
a strategy of organizing resources and
strategies, for implementation of changes
or adjustments.
Coordination and Communication
»Internal communication and coordination
between departments to create fewer silos
»Cross-agency/jurisdictional communication
and coordination (for implementation,
information sharing, data tracking, etc.)
»Coordination with the school district
»Facility and equipment sharing
»Messaging to the community on art events,
safety
• For hazards, a buddy system may be
needed to help with evacuation given
the aging population.
Technology
»Technology for public communication and
education, while recognizing that some
populations will continue to rely on low-
tech means of communication
»Advancing infrastructure
• (e.g., City vehicle fleets, EV charging
stations, EV boat chargers)
»Artificial intelligence to assist with
implementation tracking
»Regulating drones and Advanced Air
Mobility helicopters
Local Regulations
»Specific Plans are needed to help guide
development.
»Incentives are needed to get existing
buildings to make improvements.
»Coordinating with private properties to
implement:
• Drought tolerant landscaping
• Stabilizing properties in areas at risk
of landslide
Connectivity
»Improved bike paths and sidewalks
»Better connectivity from airport area
»Connectivity and access to community
resources (e.g., parks, beaches)
Community
»Pursue funding for and promote the arts.
»Identify and protect visual resources.
»Economics and tourism
»Wayfinding – knowing where to park,
where facilities are (e.g., public restrooms,
recreational opportunities)
»Highlight human and tribal histories and
legacy businesses.
»Housing is needed for first responders.
NEWPORT, TOGETHER.26
POP-UP EVENT SUMMARY 27
Appendices
A | General Plan Elements
B | Newport, Together Website
C | Detailed Input from Pop-Up Events
28
29
31
NEWPORT, TOGETHER.28
APPENDIX A
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS
LAND USE
C
I
RCULATION*
R
E
CREATION
N OISE*
H O U S I N G *
R
E
S
O
U
R
C
E
S
HIS
T
O
R
I
C
A
L
A R T S + C U L T U R AL
HARBOR + B A Y
N
A
T
U
R
A
L
R
E
S
O
U
R
C
E
S
SAFETY
*XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
29APPENDIX B
APPENDIX B
NEWPORT, TOGETHER
WEBSITE
The Newport, Together website includes the
following sections:
»Home, which includes an introduction to
the General Plan Update process, quick
links to the other site pages, upcoming
events and GPAC meetings, a timeline, and
frequently asked questions;
»What is a General Plan, which includes a
description of a General Plan, overviews of
each General Plan Update element, and the
implementation program;
»Get Engaged, which describes upcoming
and past community events;
»Resource and Document Library, which
includes the 2006 General Plan, recently
updated elements, and background
analysis reports;
»An online survey, We Want to Hear from
You!, includes a short questionnaire and an
interactive map of the city;
»And opportunities to sign up for the
interest list or contact City staff.
FIGURE 6. Newport, Together website homepage.
NEWPORT, TOGETHER.30
Resource and Document Library
The Resource and Document Library is a living
library, frequently updated with additional
background analysis reports (see Figure 7).
Existing Conditions and Background Analysis
reports are being prepared, through the lens of
resilience, for the adopted General Plan Vision
Statement and Implementation Program, and
each adopted General Plan element is being
updated in the current cycle. These reports
assess current information and data, are
developed by the City and its consultants, and
are reviewed by the GPAC. Reports posted so
far include:
»Vision Statement
»Historical Resources Elements
»Resilience
»Natural Resources
»Recreation Element
»Arts and Cultural Element
As of June 12, 2024, the current 2006 General
Plan has been downloaded 161 times, the
recently updated Circulation Element 39 times,
and the Resilience report and the Historical
Resources Element report each 13 times.
FIGURE 7. Resource and Document Library webpage.
31APPENDIX C
APPENDIX C
DETAILED INPUT FROM
POP-UP EVENTS
Below are additional key themes identified from the pop-up outreach activities. They expand
on the key themes summarized in section 5.
Mayor’s Egg Race
»Maintaining the character of Newport
Beach.
»City Programs for Children
• Many participants noted that they
loved the City’s programs for children
and wanted to see the programs
expanded, including more indoor
programs.
• Participants wanted car-free areas for
children throughout the city.
»Park Improvements
• Participants wanted to see more
shade at parks for children.
• People shared that they love the city’s
parks and recreation.
»Create opportunities for community
involvement for all ages.
• Host more community events.
»Miscellaneous
• Manage the growing unhoused
population.
• Increase restaurant and food options.
• Put powerlines underground.
• Create more parking.
• Participants shared they liked the
City’s social media presence and
communication.
Newport Beach Farmer’s Market
»Maintaining the character of Newport
Beach.
»Beach Improvements
• Participants expressed that they loved
the beach and wanted to keep it clean
and safe.
• Some participants asked for more
accessible parking around the beach
area.
• Participants stated that they wanted
to keep the harbor and bay water
clean.
»Safety
• Participants expressed wanting to
keep Newport Beach safe through low
crime rates.
»Invest in harbor and bay.
• Some participants wanted to see more
job opportunities created.
NEWPORT, TOGETHER.32
• Participants expressed the need to
diversify the types of businesses
along the beach by moving away from
real estate and more towards small
businesses.
• Some people expressed wanting fewer
rental properties and more owned
properties.
»A few participants expressed a desire for
more public transit.
Corona del Mar Farmers Market
»Docking Fees
• Keep the bay accessible and
affordable for all residents who have a
boat and want to dock it.
• Address major docking inequity and
unaffordability, as fees have risen from
$2000 to $12,000, a 400% increase,
with a 4-year waitlist.
• Provide affordable docking
opportunities for all residents.
»Parking
• Interest in more paid street parking,
while some appreciate and want more
free street parking.
• Offer free parking for merchants and
businesses, especially along Pacific
Coast Highway, as heavy parking fines
are becoming an issue.
• Ensure parking for residents along the
beach.
• Install parking meters in front of
beaches to create revenue for beach
and trash clean-up efforts.
»Support for Local Small Businesses
• Add more small and local businesses
to the corridor, including small
and casual sit-down restaurants to
maintain Corona del Mar’s small-town
feeling.
• Add more retail and restaurants to
the peninsula and continue to support
small and locally owned businesses in
places like the Corona del Mar Village,
while keeping large corporations in
Fashion Island.
• Avoid adding more real estate offices
along the beach, but instead support
more small businesses.
»Maintain and clean up the beaches.
• Clean up the water and the Corona del
Mar State Beach Park.
• Reduce noise on Pacific Coast
Highway and incorporate large
moorings for bigger visiting yachts.
»Increase safety for bikers and drivers.
• Address concerns about biker
safety, especially along Pacific
Coast Highway, by increasing driver
education for cyclists on the road and
educating drivers about the “3-foot
rule.”
»Make Newport Beach more pedestrian-
friendly.
• Slow traffic and congestion on Pacific
Coast Highway to make it more
walkable.
• Build pedestrian bridges over the
Pacific Coast Highway.
• Limit or remove electric bikes on the
Boardwalk.
»Parks
• Create more dog parks and provide
additional camping opportunities on
the beach with dogs.
»Balboa Ferry
• Keep the ferry to maintain the city’s
33APPENDIX C
character and stop the transition of
the ferry to electric.
»Limit development of high-density
buildings.
• Create more spaces like the Sherman
Library & Gardens, especially along
the beach.
• Limit the development of townhomes
or duplexes.
»Appreciation for City Programs
• Appreciate City programs, particularly
for toddlers and kids.
• Create a central place to find volunteer
opportunities in the local community.
Newport Beach Central Library
»Appreciation for Community Events
• Love the community events at the
library, mommy and baby classes in
the Newport Navigator, and other
family programs.
»Investment in the Back Bay
• Clean up the Newport Beach Back
Bay.
• Participants shared that the bird
sanctuary has been trashed and needs
major investment. Some participants
recommended creating a City
partnership with residents and other
groups to navigate and train residents
on how to clean the Back Bay while
protecting the bird sanctuary.
»Beach Improvements
• Keep the beaches clean and want
more shade at parks for children,
specifically for parks at the beach.
• Do not widen Mariner’s Mile.
• Turn vacant areas on streets into
greenbelts. Look at the Irvine
Company’s landscaping as an
example.
»Limitations on Development
• Maintain height limits and densities in
Newport Center South.
• Offices in Newport Center South
should not be re-zoned to include high
rises or higher densities.
• Enforce Greenlight Initiative in the City
Charter.
• Don’t allow developers to pay to opt
out of creating open spaces in new
developments.
• Offices in Newport Center South
should not be re-zoned to include high
rises.
• Keep the height limit and no more
high rises in Newport Center.
»Miscellaneous
• Improve the City’s advertising.
• Current advertising “feels like a city for
billionaires.” Recommended looking at
San Diego’s advertising, as “it is more
family friendly.”
• Create a shelter and soup kitchen for
the unhoused.
• Limit traffic on Pacific Coast Highway.
Battle in the Bay
»Increase the number of community events.
• More variety of events like Battle in
the Bay.
• Focus on community-building events
(e.g., concerts, boat parades).
»Create additional community amenities.
NEWPORT, TOGETHER.34
• Create a community pool to alleviate
overcrowding at high school pools.
• Add more pickleball courts.
• Improve lighting by the basketball
area on the Peninsula.
• Develop more volunteer events along
the Bay (e.g. beach clean-ups).
»Maintain and improve parks and
recreational facilities.
• Build more dog parks, such as in West
Newport.
• Increase capacity for summer camps.
• Create more bike trails.
• Beach and Harbor Maintenance
• Improve the water quality.
• Clean up Lido Isle and maintain Marina
and Ruby Beach.
• Clean up the Balboa Island Fun Zone.
• Continual cleanup of the Boardwalk.
»Improve docking space and fees.
• Limit docking fees as they have
become unaffordable. Do not increase
docking fees.
• Make docks bigger to accommodate
more people.
• Charge for a daily permit to use the
dock.
»Housing and Development
• Need affordable housing for future
generations.
• Provide housing for younger
generations and accessible housing
(e.g., police, teachers).
• Provide special needs housing.
• Maintain neighborhoods that have a
village-like feel.
• Develop a balance of services with
residential areas.
• Limit the development of apartments.
• Develop a commercial core.
• Preserve Balboa Island as a luxury
area.
• Do not exploit and commercialize the
Marina.
»Invest in and improve safety.
• Ensure safe routes to schools.
• Increase police resources, invest in the
fire department and in public works.
• Make the harbor safe for children.
»Improve transportation and accessibility.
• Some comments suggested to bring
back free parking and limit the
number of parking meters.
• While other comments suggested
replacing parking lot kiosks with
parking meters.
• Improve parking and manage summer
crowds.
• Have the tram cover more areas and
increase route frequency.
• Have a trolley extension for the
Peninsula during weekdays.
• Widen the Boardwalk to
accommodate more foot traffic.
»Preserve community identity.
• Maintain the family-oriented and kid-
centric atmosphere.
• Create and preserve historical
landmarks on the Boardwalk.
»Miscellaneous
35APPENDIX C
• Do stakeholder interviews with local
entities such as the school board.
• Maintain inclusive community
messaging (e.g., Kindness Week).