HomeMy WebLinkAboutIVc_Phase 2 Outreach and Engagement SummaryAttachment No. 4
Phase 2 Outreach and Engagement Summary
PHASE TWO OUTREACH SUMMARY
City of Newport Beach General Plan Update
Prepared by Kearns & West, in consultation with Dudek
MARCH 2025
Table of Contents
Executive Summary
Getting the Word Out
Digital Engagement
Community Workshops
01
04
05
07
Section 1
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The City of Newport Beach (City) continues its 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
community input.
This document summarizes phase two outreach conducted for the
General Plan Update between October 15, 2024, and January 5,
2025. Phase two outreach focused on sharing the vision statement
and guiding values, draft ideas to support each element with the
community (see Figure 1). Specific sections of this summary include:
▶ This overview, including an overview of a General Plan Update
process, outreach types, engagement reach, General Plan Advisory
Committee (GPAC) and General Plan Update Steering Committee
(GPUSC) collaboration, and key themes;
▶ Getting the word out, which describes paid advertisements, social
media, and other notification types;
▶ Digital engagement through the Newport, Together website,
including the online comments and number of visitors; and
▶ Community workshops, including schedule, locations, and key themes.
Figure 1: Phases of Community Engagement and Outreach.
Executive Summary 1
We’re Here
About the General Plan Update
A General Plan is a document that guides future long-term development
and is the foundation for decision-making for a community’s physical
development. State law requires that every city have a current General Plan,
which local governments use to make decisions about land use, housing,
transportation, infrastructure, and parks, among other issues. While planning
horizons vary, the General Plan typically sets the direction for the next 20-
30 years.
Outreach Type and Engagement Reach
Phase two outreach was designed to allow the community to review draft
materials based on phase one input and provide comments, suggestions,
and input. Community members could participate in the planning process
in ways that suited their interest level and availability. Outreach types for
phase two included digital engagement through the Newport, Together
website and in-person workshops in the Newport Beach community.
Through digital engagement and
community workshops, 97 community
members were engaged. In addition,
94,108 residents were reached with paid
advertisements, social media, and emails.
Community members discussing goal ideas at a community workshop.
Executive Summary 2
General Plan Advisory Committee Collaboration
A General Plan is a document that guides future long-term development
and is the foundation for decision-making for a community’s physical
development. State law requires that every city have a current General Plan,
which local governments use to make decisions about land use, housing,
transportation, infrastructure, and parks, among other issues. While planning
horizons vary, the General Plan typically sets the direction for the next 20-
30 years.
KEY THEMES
During phase two outreach, key themes were identified based on
community feedback from digital engagement and at the community
workshops. Key themes are listed below. See Sections 3 (Digital
Engagement) and 4 (Community Workshops) for details on additional input
received.
▶ Maintain and enhance the
character and charm of Newport
Beach.
▶ Improve connectivity through
bike and pedestrian paths and
alternative modes of transportation,
such as a mini-shuttle or trolley.
▶ Invest in resources for senior
citizens and young families,
including housing and community
support programs.
▶ Focus on maintaining the quality
of life in Newport Beach by
preserving open spaces, improving
public amenities, and offering
diverse recreational options.
▶ Promote partnerships and
collaborations to support the
city’s cultural, educational, and
recreational goals.
▶ Enhance public spaces with art
installations, murals, and sculptures.
▶ Promote harbor, bay, and
beach conservation and public
accessibility.
▶ Integrate conservation efforts with
development plans, such as creating
natural dunes and promoting
wildlife preservation.
▶ Focus on sustainable building
designs, green infrastructure, and
eco-friendly technology, such as
solar-powered electric vehicle (EV)
chargers.
▶ Explore long-term investment
strategies for maintaining and
upgrading City resources and public
services.
Executive Summary 3
Section 2
GETTING THE WORD OUT
Multiple notification methods were used to inform the Newport Beach
community about phase two of the General Plan Update process, including
a paid digital advertisement distributed in Stu News Newport. The City’s
marketing team collaborated in efforts announcing phase two, sharing
updates, and inviting community members to provide input via the City
Manager’s newsletter and social media posts on Instagram and Facebook
(see Figure 2). In addition, strategic email announcements were distributed
through the Newport, Together website (newportbeachca.gov/gpupdate).
Figure 2: Two Social Media Posts Announcing Phase Two and Invitation to Community
Workshops.
As shown in Table 1, as of January 5, 2025, advertisements, social media,
and dedicated emails had reached 94,108 residents, community members,
and stakeholders.
Type Run Time/ Number of
Posts Dates Reach
Digital Newspaper
(Stu News Newport)35 days October 29 to
December 2 19,658
Instagram 8 October 28,30,
November 4, 13, 19, December 2, 4, 5 10,548
Facebook 8 October 28, 30,
November 4, 13, 19
December 2, 4, 5 1,891
Newport, Together
Emails 8 October 25
November 4, 8, 15, 19, 25December 2, 19 4,191
City Manager
Newsletter 3 October 25,
November 22, December 20 57,820
Table 1: Outreach Notifications by Type and Reach
Getting the Word Out 4
Section 3
DIGITAL ENGAGEMENT -
Newport, Together Website
The dedicated General Plan Update
website, Newport, Together, continues
to inform the community about the
General Plan Update process, announce
upcoming community workshops, and
offer opportunities to provide input
via a digital engagement activity. The
Newport, Together website is updated
frequently in collaboration with City
staff and the GPAC. As of January
5, 2025, the website has had 9,840
unique visitors.
The Newport, Together website offers an ongoing digital engagement page to
allow community members to provide feedback if they miss a workshop or wish
to offer additional input after attending a workshop. On the Get Engaged! page,
visitors are asked to review the draft materials and respond to the following
question: When you picture Newport Beach in 2050, what does it look like?
Community responses are posted on a digital bulletin board and viewable to all
visitors (see Figure 3). Below are the primary themes from input collected from
November 1, 2024, to January 5, 2025.
Online Survey Input: We Want To Hear From You!
▶ Maintain the Charm of Newport
Beach: Limit residential buildings,
preserve cottage charm, consider
designs of future developments
▶ Environmental Preservation: Protect
open spaces around the city; keep the
beaches clean and accessible to the
community
▶ Harbor and Waterfront Management:
Increase public access to docks and
waterfront space, such as affordable
boating; promote tourism around the
bay with regulations for environmental
conservation
▶ Historic and Cultural Preservation:
Protect historical and culturally
significant sites; preserve waterfront
clubs, moorings, and other landmarks
around the harbor
▶ Parking and Community
Accessibility: Consider parking
alternatives and cost; ensure ADA
accessibility to the beaches; add
community amenities and gathering
sites, such as a 9-hole golf course or
pickleball
Digital Engagement 5
Newport Beach in 2050: Picture This
Share Your Thoughts!
We invite community members and residents like you to share your thoughts
and ideas on Newport Beach’s future!
The City of Newport Beach is asking for community input as we review the vision statement and
collaborate to refine ideas to support the general plan elements and guiding values for the city’s
future. We want to capture what is important to you and your community! Review the Phase
Two Draft materials, consider any feedback, and share your thoughts below.
How to participate:
- Review the Phase Two Draft Materials for context.
- Add your brief thoughts, ideas, and suggestions to the response box below.
- Your comment will show as a sticky note below.
- Please add one comment per sticky note.
- You can add as many responses as you’d like!
- Add a general response OR an element-specific response or idea (Select the specific element you wish to respond
to in the ‘category’ drop-down option below).
Figure 3: Newport, Together Website “We Want to Hear From You” Page.
Digital Engagement 6
Section 4
COMMUNITY WORKSHOPS
The City hosted four community workshops during phase two of the General
Plan Update. Each workshop focused on two General Plan elements or topics:
Recreation & Natural Resources; Coastal Resilience & Safety; Arts and Culture &
Historical Resources; and Land Use & Harbor, Bay, and Beaches. Newport Beach
community members, residents, and stakeholders were invited to review draft
materials and provide input.
Each workshop was designed to share the draft vision statement with community
members – reflecting background research and phase one community input –
provide an opportunity for community members to review the draft guiding values,
generate goals for Newport Beach’s future in 2050, and offer an opportunity to
generate ideas for achieving those goals. Attendees included members of the
public who also play a more formal role as members of the GPAC and GPUSC.
The community workshop schedule is presented in Table 2. The following section
provides an overview of each activity involving the referenced draft materials (see
Appendix A), the number of community members engaged, and key themes heard.
Additional input can be found in Appendix B.
Workshop and Location Date and Time Attendance
Recreation & Natural Resources
Friends Room, Central Library:
1000 Avocado Avenue, Newport
Beach
Thursday, November 14th
6:00 – 8:00 p.m.8
Coastal Resilience & Safety
Community Room, Civic Center
Park: 100 Civic Center Dr, New-
port Beach
Thursday, November 21st
6:00 – 8:00 p.m.6
Arts & Culture and Historical
Resources
Community Room, Civic Center
Park: 100 Civic Center Dr, New-
port Beach
Wednesday, December 4th
6:00 – 8:00 p.m.9
Land Use & Harbor, Bay and
Beaches
Community Room, Marina Park,
1600 W Balboa Blvd, Newport
Beach
Thursday, December 5th
6:00 – 8:00 p.m.32
Table 2: Community Engagement Schedule
Community Workshops 7
Community Workshops 8
WORKSHOP ACTIVITIES
Participants were invited to participate in three
activities to provide input on the draft materials
and how they picture Newport Beach in 2050. A
short presentation was provided at the beginning
of each workshop to introduce the General Plan
Update process, the workshop topics, and the input
activities. An additional activity was included for
the final workshop, Land Use & Harbor, Bay, and
Beaches. The following summarizes the activities
and key themes from participant input.
Visioning Activity
During the workshop welcome and registration, participants were given six blue
sticky dots. Once they entered the meeting room, they were directed to the draft
vision statement poster and asked to use the blue sticky dots to indicate the
sentences or sections that resonated with them. A project team member was
available to help with directions and answer questions. The complete draft vision
statement can be found in Appendix A.
Participant Input
Participants placing blue sticky dots on the vision statement during a community
workshop.
The sections or sentences of the vision statement are presented sequentially
in Table 3, with columns indicating the number of blue sticky dots placed by
participants at each community workshop. The total number of dots is indicated in
the final column.
Community Workshops 9
Vision Statement Sentence
Workshop Topics
Recreation & Natural
Resources
Coastal Resilience
& Safety
Arts & Culture and
Historical
Resources
Land Use & Harbor, Bay, and
Beaches
Total Dots
In the year 2050, Newport Beach
is renowned as a coastal beacon
of natural splendor, unparalleled
amenities, and dynamic culture.
1 2 8 11
The City maintains a superior qual-
ity of life by successfully balancing
the needs of residents, businesses,
and visitors.
4 3 11 18
Newport Beach is a distinguished
city adorned with unique villages,
coastal resources, and natural open
spaces; creating a unique sense of
place in an idyllic setting.
4 3 5 12
A destination for many, Newport
Beach offers a sophisticated life-
style with access to luxury ameni-
ties and activities.
2 1 3
The City’s commitment to the pro-
tection of the natural environment
has made Newport Beach a leader
of environmental stewardship in
the region.
4 1 2 10 17
Strong partnerships with outside
agencies and organizations have
cultivated successful collaboration
on regional transportation, land
use, coastline, and other issues of
mutual concern.
2 4 6
The sweeping views of and access
to beaches, the harbor, and the
coast have been preserved and are
maintained for future generations.
7 3 3 26 39
Growth and development have
been accommodated in a manner
that seamlessly blends new and old
into the fabric of the community,
keeping pace with changing com-
munity needs while maintaining
adequate infrastructure and high
quality of life.
2 2 4
Community Workshops 10
Vision Statement Sentence
Workshop Topics
Recreation & Natural
Resources
Coastal Resilience
& Safety
Arts & Culture and
Historical
Resources
Land Use & Harbor, Bay, and
Beaches
Total Dots
The needs of the community
are met through a variety
of strategically located uses
including vibrant commercial
services, offices and employment
centers, public facilities including
community centers and libraries,
parks and open space, schools,
residential neighborhoods, and
visitor-serving uses.
3 3 5 11
Strategic planning and infrastruc-
ture investments continue to pro-
tect the health and longevity of the
built and natural environment.
4 4
Adaptation and resilience are
central to all decision-making and
have empowered Newport Beach
to maintain a vibrant coastal life-
style that strengthens the local
economy.
1 2 4 7
The City’s world-class public safety
services safeguard its residents
and visitors, creating safe and
friendly neighborhoods.
2 1 4 13 20
Residents champion arts, culture,
and education as pillars of the
community and take pride in their
historic legacy.
2 4 4 10
The community embraces
innovation, and their visionary
outlook has positioned them as
frontrunners in best practices for
adopting new technologies.
2 1 2 5
Newport Beach is distinguished for
its beauty, culture, resilience, and
inclusivity for residents of all stag-
es of life and backgrounds.
1 1 2 9 13
Community Workshops 11
General Plan Update Presentation
Following the vision activity, a short presentation was provided to familiarize
participants with the General Plan, the intention of the update process, why the
plan is important to the community, an overview of the workshop topic or element,
and explaining the subsequent workshop activities. Every community workshop
included the same information with updates to the section on the specific
workshop topics.
Draft Guiding Values Activity
In the next activity, participants were asked to review the draft guiding values (see
Appendix A) and consider how they related to the workshop topic. They were
asked to respond to the following questions:
Participants brainstormed ideas with each other and the project team and added
written comments using sticky notes on each of the seven guiding value posters.
Key themes identified from participant input are listed below, by their respective
workshop, with no regard to priority. All written comments provided during the
workshop activities can be found in Appendix B.
12 Community Workshops
▶ What do you envision seeing in Newport Beach in 2050 to fulfill this
guiding value?
▶ What is important to you with this guiding value?
▶ Is anything missing?
WORKSHOP 1
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KEY THEMES
▶ Improved Walkability and Transportation around the City: Increase walkability
between points of interest, wayfinding signage, and wheelchair access; add walking
and biking paths; add a shuttle around the city, especially between destination
points.
▶ Increase Education and Information: Emphasize cultural education, resources,
and programming; ensure transparency of recreation opportunities and low-cost
options for all generations.
▶ Develop Partnerships: Consider partnerships with other organizations in the city,
private and public.
▶ Implement Citywide Safety Measures: Increase safety measures for e-bikes.
▶ Focus on Conservation and Education of the Community: Collaborate with
schools to protect open spaces and teach about the importance of conservation.
▶ Balance Infrastructure and Building Development: Better balance development
and protecting open spaces, especially in the coastal areas.
▶ Prioritize Investing in Funding and Grants: Dedicate staff to facilitate grant
funding to protect natural resources; balance the maintenance cost for open
spaces and keep it free for the public; invest in education on native species and
resources for the public.
▶ Opportunity for Additional Public Installations and Educational Tools: Add a
natural history museum or increase efforts to showcase the Back Bay Science
Center and add art installations to show different natural resources or organisms
around the city.
Recreation & Natural Resources participants review draft guiding values and brainstorm ideas.
13 Community Workshops
WORKSHOP 2
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KEY THEMES
▶ Funding and Infrastructure Investment: Secure long-term funding options to use
over time; Add non-car methods of transportation; add citywide connected bike
and walking paths.
▶ Natural Solutions to Preserve the Coast: Consider an alternative to a sea wall;
keep the Balboa Island Ferry; protect the natural resources; protect homes from
flooding.
▶ Maintain the Charm of Newport Beach: Embrace and emphasize local events and
activities, such as boat parade and 4th of July celebrations along the harbor.
▶ Invest in City Programming and Support: Continue supporting senior citizens
with services; consider adding a satellite OASIS Senior Center on the Newport
Peninsula.
▶ Educational Resources and Transparency with the Residents and Visitors:
Collaborate with HOAs and neighborhood groups to provide preparedness plans
and education to residents; keep the City website updated with natural disaster
tools; include safety resources for visitors, such as an electronic bulletin board.
▶ Infrastructure Adaptations: Incorporate grid alternatives and battery storage in
case of electricity outage; prepare for autonomous vehicles; use non-toxic fire-
retardant.
▶ Funding Investment: Research funding sources to supplement the City budget,
such as hotel tax or state/federal funding.
▶ Transportation and Circulation: Work with schools to educate the younger
generation on safety measures, such as with e-bikes; ensure evacuation routes are
accessible.
Coastal Resilience & Safety participants review draft guiding values and brainstorm ideas.
14 Community Workshops
WORKSHOP 3
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KEY THEMES
▶ Public Art and Beautifying Public Spaces:
Increase public and private collaborations for
art installations, sculptures, and murals; add QR
codes on art installations to provide information
or visual guides for art and historical resources;
sponsor art programs and host cultural events
relevant to students and young adults, and
families.
▶ Preservation and Sustainability: Focus on
revamping historic sites and integrating history
into environmental conservation; promote
sustainable building designs and art installations.
▶ Secure Funding, Donations, and Sponsorship:
Pursue transient occupancy tax allocations,
grants, and sponsorships for arts and cultural
programs; ensure the City budget includes
financial support for the arts and robust
museum development.
▶ Infrastructure and Accessibility: Design
spaces for older adults and people with mobility
challenges, ensuring ADA compliance in public
venues; maximize existing venues for cultural
events; provide shuttles to events.
▶ Technology and Innovation: Enhance cultural
presentations with modern technology; use
technology to provide efficient access to
historical documents; expand the Newport
Beach app.
▶ Community Livability and Charm: Preserve
Newport Beach’s charm and village-like
character by maintaining historic cottages and
aesthetic designs; add activities connected
to the beach, open spaces, gardens, and
recreational events.
▶ Community Programs and Collaboration:
Expand arts and culture programming, such as
at the library; celebrate local artists and facilitate
local artistic recognition citywide.
Arts & Culture and Historical Resources
participants review draft guiding values
and brainstorm ideas.
15 Community Workshops
WORKSHOP 4
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KEY THEMES
▶ Transportation and Accessibility: Add a tram or monorail system for moving
people from parking lots; separate bike paths to alleviate congestion on
boardwalks; add solar-powered EV chargers around the city; improve connectivity
using technology.
▶ Infrastructure and Urban Development: Upgrade aging infrastructure, such as
seawalls; include bike and pedestrian paths in new development; add crosswalks
with lights around the city, especially on major roads such as Pacific Coast
Highway; invest in safety infrastructure for biking, walking, and swimming; have
clear communication between the City and commissions.
▶ Environmental Preservation and Leadership: Consider natural options for
beach and environmental protections, such as creating natural dunes and sand
replenishment; enforce regulations for water quality and dumping prevention for all
boat users; promote wildlife preservation and integration into urban planning.
▶ Harbor and Waterfront Management: Increase public access to docks and
waterfront space, such as affordable boating; enforce boating sanitation and
safety regulations; make harbor infrastructure improvements, including mooring
preservation.
▶ Public Health and Technology Infrastructure: Consider potential health impacts
and adopt mitigations; establish communication infrastructure for emergencies.
▶ Historic and Cultural Preservation: Protect historical and culturally significant
sites; preserve waterfront clubs, moorings, and other landmarks around the harbor;
and add site-specific historical interpretive signage.
▶ Tourism and Recreational Opportunities: Regulate tourism to mitigate
environmental impacts; develop recreational amenities like public museums and
fishing docks; consider small businesses in tourism development plans.
Land Use & Harbor, Bay, and Beaches participants review draft guiding values and brainstorm ideas.
16 Community Workshops
Draft Goals Activity
Finally, during each workshop, draft goals or ideas for the workshop topics were
placed around the meeting room. Participants were given six green sticky dots
and sticky notes. They were invited to read the draft goals, indicate which goals
resonated with them using the green dots, and provide any additional comments
or ideas in writing using the sticky notes. The complete list of draft goals for each
General Plan Element or topic can be found in Appendix C.
Participant Input
Participant discussing draft goals with one of the workshop facilitators.
The following lists indicate goals for each General Plan Element with the respective
number of sticky dots received, listed in priority order.
Community Workshops 17
▶ Clean water in Newport Bay and the coast
▶ Ecosystems that are connected and sustainable
▶ Ecosystems that are conserved and restored
▶ Viewsheds and corridors that are preserved
▶ A city with clean air that prevents air pollution
▶ Water that is conserved and used responsibly
▶ A city with minimal impacts from oil and gas drilling activities
▶ A city that leverages alternative sources of energy
NATURAL RESOURCES
▶ Open space, park, and recreation facilities that are preserved, upgraded, and
well-maintained
▶ A community with high-quality recreation programs
▶ Adequate support facilities in open space and recreation facilities
▶ A city that protects public beach access
▶ Parks and recreation facilities that are adapted to meet a variety of needs for
existing and future residents, including people with disabilities
▶ New parks and connections that increase resident access to recreation, parks,
and open space opportunities
▶ A city with established and maintained relationships to facilitate interagency and
inter-organizational coordination
RECREATION
HISTORICAL RESOURCES
▶ Distinct neighborhoods and villages that accommodate planned development
while maintaining their unique character
▶ Mixed-use districts are designed and planned to ensure compatibility among a
variety of uses
▶ Efficient use of land to create livable neighborhoods and support economic
development
▶ Public and institutional uses that enhance the quality of life for residents and are
located and designed to complement Newport Beach’s neighborhoods
▶ A prompt and efficient system for development permit processing
▶ Industrial districts that provide flexibility to incorporate community-serving uses
and encourage transition to co-locate employment, residential, and creative and
artistic uses
▶ Commercial districts and centers are well-planned and exhibit a high level of
architectural and landscape quality
▶ Residential neighborhoods that are well-designed and contribute to the livability
and quality of life of residents
▶ Office and business parks exhibit a high-quality image, are attractive and provide
quality working environments for employees and services for the community
▶ Infrastructure that supports new development, maintains and improves existing
development, and is adaptable to new technologies
▶ Planning sub-areas that accommodate planned housing development in a
cohesive manner
LAND USE
▶ A city that celebrates, preserves, and protects its history
▶ A city that enshrines its history through education
▶ A city and community that celebrates tribal cultural resources
▶ Well-documented and protected archaeological and paleontological resources
Community Workshops 18
▶ Beaches that are maintained and protected from erosion
▶ A community protected from floods through adequate and well-maintained
infrastructure
▶ A community that is resilient to coastal flooding
▶ Stabilized bluffs to minimize erosion and prevent landslides in developed areas
▶ Current and accessible data and information on flooding, beach erosion, and bluff
erosion
COASTAL RESILIENCE
▶ A community where residents, employees, and visitors feel a sense of comfort
and safety
▶ Evacuation routes and centers that are maintained to provide functionality during
hazardous conditions
▶ Tested and effective communication systems for emergency preparedness and
response
▶ High-quality public safety, emergency preparedness, and response services
▶ Reduced and well-managed urban and wildland fire hazards
▶ A community that is resilient to and protected from inland flooding
▶ A community protected from airport-related hazards
▶ A built environment adapted to provide relief from extreme heat
▶ Building and utilities that are protected from seismic and geological hazards
▶ A community protected from impacts of hazardous materials
SAFETY
ARTS & CULTURE
▶ Funding that helps artists and art programs flourish
▶ State-of-the-art facilities to host art exhibits and programs
▶ A city with strong partnerships that support thriving arts, culture, and education
▶ Programs and exhibits within the city are widely promoted, marketed, and
attended
▶ A wide collection of art exhibited throughout the city
▶ A community enriched by and connected to the arts, culture, libraries, and
education
HARBOR, BAY & BEACHES
▶ A healthy coastal ecosystem
▶ A harbor, bay, and beaches that attract tourism and maintain the character of the
coastal neighborhoods
▶ Coastal resources that are easily accessed and rich with recreational
opportunities
▶ High-quality beaches that are enjoyed by residents and visitors
▶ Preserved coastal-dependent uses that contribute to the charm and character of
the harbor, bay, and beaches
▶ Well-managed and economically productive harbor, bay, and beaches
▶ Waterfront businesses and services that contribute to a successful harbor and
bay
Community Workshops 19
KEY THEMES
In addition to adding green sticky dots to
the goals, participants brainstormed ideas
with each other and the project team and
added written comments using sticky notes
on goal posters. Key themes identified from
participant input are listed below, under their
respective workshop topic, with no regard
to priority. See Appendix D for the complete
written comments.
▶ Prioritize Resource Conservation and Preservation: Fresh water is a limited
resource and should be preserved; viewsheds should be preserved.
▶ Protecting and Maintaining Open Spaces for Future Generations: Explore
options for sand retention, create environmentally friendly parks, and incorporate
native landscaping.
▶ Focus on what the City of Newport Beach Can Affect: Some of these goals are
on a federal or state level; identify what can be done at a local level.
▶ Funding and Sponsorship for Arts and History: Dedicate City funding and staff to
pursue additional funding sources; include creative approaches to secure funding
and create impactful initiatives.
▶ Arts and Cultural Development: Encourage public art projects, including murals,
sculptures, and creative designs on local infrastructure; create sustainable cultural
initiatives; strive to make the city more visually engaging.
▶ Preservation of Historical Resources: Focus on preserving historical trees,
gardens, and oral histories; acquire funding for historical resources and landmarks
and emphasizing Newport Beach’s unique history.
▶ Promote Stewardship and Appreciation of Arts and Historical Resources:
Emphasize understanding, awareness, and community engagement in preserving
the city’s heritage.
Recreation & Natural Resources
Arts & Culture and Historical Resources
▶ Marine Wildlife Protection: Show concern for the well-being of sea animals,
including pelicans, ducks, birds, and fish.
▶ Water Quality and Marine Ecosystem Health: Continue to clean the bay water;
cleaner water has already had a positive effect on fish presence.
▶ Affordable Access to Waterways: Ensure the bay and beaches are accessible to
the public; keep the harbor and moorings affordable for all community members.
Land Use & Harbor, Bay and Beaches
Coastal Resilience & Safety
Workshop participant reviewing draft
goals and adding comments.
No comments were added.
Community Workshops 20
Land Use Activity
A fourth activity was added during the final workshop on Land Use & Harbor, Bay,
and Beaches. Participants were asked to review four maps identifying the housing
overlay sites and names of community subareas: Airport Area, Newport Center,
West Newport Mesa/Banning Ranch/Cannery McFadden, and Coyote Canyon. They
were asked to identify what they envision will be needed to accommodate future
housing in each subarea to ensure the communities are safe, balanced, and healthy.
During the activity, participants were asked to consider two viewpoints: one as if
they were living in one of these areas and one through the perspective of another
potential Newport Beach resident, such as a young family or a retired couple.
Participants brainstormed ideas with each other and the project team and added
written comments using sticky notes on the maps. All written comments provided
during the activity can be found in Appendix E.
Workshop participants review maps of housing overlay sites and sub-areas.
Community Workshops 21
KEY THEMES
Below are the key themes identified from participant input for each subarea. Some
themes may be relevant to the surrounding areas of each map, and not specific to
the identified subarea. The themes are organized under their respective subarea,
with no regard to priority.
▶ Urban Planning, Development, and Infrastructure: Transform the Airport Area to “Uptown Newport” with mixed-use spaces, including residential, retail, and office areas; create balanced parking solutions and pedestrian-friendly walkways to support a central public space; consider incentives for the business and property owners in the area for alternative development.▶ Community Amenities and Services: Prioritize essential amenities like grocery stores, daycare, schools, and community centers; add on-site parks and walkable retail options to enhance the quality of life for residents.▶ Transportation and Connectivity: Provide options for car-independent connectivity through trolleys, shuttles, and enhanced biking, walking, and scooter paths; enhance transportation infrastructure to alleviate congestion and encourage eco-friendly mobility; add connections to other areas of the city, such as to the fairgrounds from the Back Bay.▶ Environmental and Wildlife Conservation: Integrate environmental considerations into urban planning, ensuring sustainable development; preserve buffer zones to
protect the bay and open spaces.
Airport Area
▶ Community and Recreation Enhancements: Develop public spaces like a
community center; encourage recreational activities through facilities like hiking
trails, bike paths, and miniature trolleys/local transportation; update the peninsula
Fun Zone with 24-hour security.▶ Wildlife Education and Conservation: Prioritize habitat preservation; provide
education to the public about the local wildlife, such as egrets and herons; consider
urban forestry initiatives and animal sanctuaries around the area.▶ Urban Development and Infrastructure: Balance modern development and a
pedestrian-oriented, walk/live/play, village-like character of the city; limit building
heights; research pedestrian tunnels for major intersections.▶ Accessibility, Inclusivity, and Connectivity: Increase parking and public
transportation options, including trolleys and pedestrian paths; ensure community-
friendly and affordable docks at Marina Park.
Newport Center
Community Workshops 22
▶ Accessible Housing and Development Considerations: Emphasize workforce
housing, particularly for Hoag employees and senior citizens; limit building heights;
consider mixed-use housing developments with retail, restaurants, and stores on the
first floor.
▶ Environmental and Open Space Preservation: Preserve the harbor and boating
industries, ensuring full harbor access and protecting Upper Bay areas; protect open
spaces along the waterfront walkways, maintain parks, and add walking/biking
paths.
▶ Community Connectivity and Safety: Expand safety measures through
streetscapes, pedestrian pathways, and street lighting; increase connectivity options
between West Newport, the Peninsula, and the Coast Highway.
▶ Infrastructure and Public Amenities: Move utility infrastructure underground in
Newport Heights and West Cliff Drive; prioritize community amenities and gathering
places, such as a community pool, pickleball courts, restaurants, and coffee shops;
improve bike lanes and parking.
West Newport Mesa/Banning Ranch/Cannery McFadden
▶ Name Recognition: Residents like and recognize “Coyote Canyon.”
▶ Affordable and Accessible Housing Opportunities: Emphasize affordable housing
options, especially for senior citizens and young families; consider new housing with
views; include environmental buffer zones when designing, such as the Big Canyon
Watershed.
▶ Connectivity and Environmental Considerations: Improve public trail connectivity
around the area and other parts of the city; consider alternative transportation
trails and paths to the local universities; consider the environmental impact of
development near the landfill site and other sensitive areas.
▶ Community Amenities and Urban Design: Incorporate parks, walkable retail, and
mixed-use spaces alongside housing; consider a “main street” concept to foster
community and accessibility in the new housing developments.
Coyote Canyon
Community Workshops 23
Appendices
A | Draft Vision Statement and Guiding Values
B | Draft Guiding Values Activity
C | Draft Ideas to Support the Elements
D | Draft Goals Participant Input
E | Housing Overlay Sites & Community Sub-Area Map
26
27
42
52
53
APPENDIX A
DRAFT VISION STATEMENT
AND GUIDING VALUES
In the year 2050, Newport Beach is renowned as a coastal beacon of natural splendor,
unparalleled amenities, and dynamic culture. The City maintains a superior quality of life by
successfully balancing the needs of residents, businesses, and visitors. Newport Beach is a
distinguished city adorned with unique villages, coastal resources, and natural open spaces;
creating a unique sense of place in an idyllic setting. A destination for many, Newport Beach
offers a sophisticated lifestyle with access to luxury amenities and activities. The City’s
commitment to the protection of the natural environment has made Newport Beach a leader
of environmental stewardship in the region. Strong partnerships with outside agencies and
organizations have cultivated successful collaboration on regional transportation, land use,
coastline, and other issues of mutual concern. The sweeping views of and access to beaches,
the harbor, and the coast have been preserved and are maintained for future generations.
Growth and development have been accommodated in a manner that seamlessly blends
new and old into the fabric of the community, keeping pace with changing community
needs while maintaining adequate infrastructure and a high quality of life. The needs of
the community are met through a variety of strategically located uses including vibrant
commercial services, offices and employment centers, public facilities including community
centers and libraries, parks and open space, schools, residential neighborhoods, and visitor-
serving uses. Strategic planning and infrastructure investments continue to protect the
health and longevity of the built and natural environment. Adaptation and resilience are
central to all decision-making and have empowered Newport Beach to maintain a vibrant
coastal lifestyle that strengthens the local economy. The City’s world-class public safety
services safeguard its residents and visitors, creating safe and friendly neighborhoods.
Residents champion arts, culture, and education as pillars of the community and take pride
in their historic legacy. The community embraces innovation, and their visionary outlook has
positioned them as frontrunners in best practices for adopting new technologies. Newport
Beach is distinguished for its beauty, culture, resilience, and inclusivity for residents of all
stages of life and backgrounds.
Guiding Values
Maintain a Balanced and Connected Community: Conservative and balanced growth that
emphasizes residents’ quality of life and connects community members to their needs,
creating a city that is functional and vibrant.
Foster Environmental Stewardship: Environmental stewardship supports the preservation
and enhancement of the natural environment, so that it may be enjoyed by current and
future generations.
Promote Coastal Resilience: Resilience is essential to adapting to environmental changes
and protecting the built and natural environment.
Facilitate Public Safety: Community safety is fostered through public education,
infrastructure investments, and sufficient public services.
Embrace Innovative Technologies: Innovative technologies benefit cities when they are
planned for and thoughtfully integrated into City decisions, regulations, and development.
Celebrate Art, Culture, and History: Culture, art, and history make up the tapestry that bonds
the community together and creates a sense of civic pride.
Administer Financial Resources Responsibly: Fiscal responsibility supports an efficient use
of resources to help maintain economic stability and prosperity within a community.
Appendix A 26
APPENDIX B
DRAFT GUIDING VALUES
ACTIVITY
The complete written comments, edited lightly for clarity, from each workshop can be found
below. In addition, photos of each poster accompany the written comments.
Workshop 1: Recreation and Natural Resources
▶ Educate, value, and technology that make/drive City
decisions ▶ Seek out and use innovative technology ▶ Help all different people (multi-language capacity) to
engage and learn about our natural resources ▶ Being progressive, open-minded, and wise in planning for
our future will prepare us to have a healthy community ▶ Make sure to look at the accessibility of private recreational
opportunities that city residents have, i.e., tennis, pools, and
gyms at HOA compared to other cities▶ Balancing the use of technology but also learning how to be
low-tech to slow down and appreciate our natural resources▶ Educational & other resources to support the needs of the
population ▶ Phase out natural gas and fuel boats. Go to electric
models ▶ More connection to senior center (shuttle?)▶ As alternative fuel sources and modes of transportation
evolve, there should be planned integration so everyone can
easily navigate. There should also be an overarching plan to
upgrade the infrastructure. ▶ Monitor coastline hazards, earthquakes, tsunamis, erosion,
high tides, and sea level rise ▶ Newport Beach has an aging population - keep it simple
Embrace Innovative Technologies
Facilitate Public Safety
▶ As more e-bikes are utilized as future forms of
transportation, education and licensing should be required
upon vehicle purchase.
▶ Better education as to WHY our natural resources are
essential so folks won’t fly by on an e-bike, cause side trails, or
create illegal trails through protected areas
▶ Artificial dunes restrict views for many
▶ Invest in the future
▶ Community partnership with public services
▶ Family security (particularly as the community ages)
▶ Pay for and value public servants
▶ Be mindful of parking not leading to overcrowding near/at
beaches
▶ Restrict/prohibit beach vendors
▶ Continue with police/fire/lifeguard support
▶ Concerns about the enforcement of electric bikes
Appendix B 27
▶ Protect harbor, bays, and beaches - add “beaches” to the
element name
▶ An education on public access
▶ Highlight public access to minimize the concentration of
crowds
▶ Access points disrupted by erosion
▶ Preserving the beauty of our natural resources is essential,
and overcrowding makes it more difficult
▶ Artificial reefs and living waters to preserve sand
▶ I’d like to see more access to our coast, harbor, and bay in
smaller, more manageable areas so that it is not overcrowded
▶ Continue sea wall implementation
▶ Protect Balboa Island
▶ Sand restoration, not dunes
▶ Explore retention ways to preserve sand and coastline
(reefs)
▶ Larger buffer zones, looking at opportunities to give more
space to sensitive areas
▶ Monitoring sand replenishment
▶ Attend Speak Up Newport to Promote GPU [General Plan
Update]
▶ Maintain natural beauty, don’t change
▶ Maintain beaches
▶ Electrification of buildings and phasing out natural gases
Promote Coastal Resilience
Administer Financial Resources Responsibly
▶ Remember, open space doesn’t have cost because it’s
open and free, but there are costs to making the open space
function and operate
▶ Make sure to look at opportunities for public-private
partnerships, i.e., use of HOA or hotel pools or YMCA or others
that have facilities
▶ Recreation that crosses over generations free to senior
adults
▶ Public/private support, arts and culture
▶ Pay attention to the bay as an economic resource
▶ Supporting the arts, such as the new library lecture hall
▶ Continue to attract premium admin operational talent; pay
well
▶ Fiscal responsibility/financial committee is critical to quality
of life
▶ In thinking about what benefits all ages and stages of life, we
need to put resources for each area
▶ Monitor the progress of efforts to maintain and prevent
beach erosion
Appendix B 28
▶ Natural history museum or putting more effort into
showcasing the Back Bay Science Center
▶ Art pieces that show different organisms underwater. There
are thousands of different types of critters people can’t see
▶ Greater accessibility - perhaps shuttles
▶ Values: Protection, celebrate native plants, respect area
▶ Newport has one of the richest legacies of protecting our
coastline and upper bay from development that should be
better protected
▶ It is essential that we continue to value the beauty of
▶ Newport Beach but incorporate it in more ways
▶ Knowledge, history, and culture guide our future
decisions
▶ More art in public places
▶ Linking and celebrating natural history between our bay and
our coastal beaches
▶ Envision, education, walkability, accountability
▶ I envision walking between the cultural and art aspects
around the city, with points of history
▶ Continued emphasis on cultural, educational, and
informational programs and facilities (library and Witte Hall)
▶ Promote arts commission/boards of library trustees; Library
budget is now $10.5 million, and the library was a 4-star;
continue to support
▶ Additional education of community history
Celebrate Art, Culture, and History
Foster Environmental Stewardship
▶ More effort to control initiatives within open spaces, working
with school science classes and conservation corps
▶ More dedicated staff to facilitate grant funding and projects
to support our natural resources
▶ Continued vigilance, promote volunteer efforts
▶ City funding of environmental efforts
▶ Residents should be knowledgeable and active in preserving
our natural resources and beaches and avoiding sea level
rise
▶ Dedicated staff whose priorities include grant and funding
opportunities
▶ It’s our future!
▶ Slow sea-level rise
▶ We are losing the battle to protect our environment. We
need to ACT now before it gets more expensive and more
complicated to reverse
Appendix B 29
▶ Walkability to points of interest, signage, wheel access
▶ Easier ways to navigate by walking trails - remember to work
with neighboring landowners
▶ I’d love to see a walking/biking path that goes throughout
the city, with interesting facts and markers along the way
▶ Better balance between development and open space,
especially in the coastal zone
▶ Add trolleys or buses to connect the various parts of
Newport Beach
▶ More interpretive signage celebrating natural resources
▶ Maintaining priorities: residents, local businesses, visitors
▶ This value is essential as it would be an excellent way for
people to stay healthy, learn about our city, and honor our
heritage
Maintain a Balanced and Connected Community
Workshop 2: Coastal Resilience and Safety
▶ Invest in harbor infrastructure
▶ Protect houses on the Peninsula, where possible
▶ Invest in lifeguards, fire, police
▶ Education for people on evacuation routes for various
emergencies, make available on the City website
▶ Need better phone service, especially in Corona del Mar
during emergency events
▶ Much funding is needed to improve infrastructure
▶ During an emergency, how can people escape a specific
area? Possibility of drills?
▶ Harder to address private property - how to incentive
▶ Data and education about flooding - get the community
involved
▶ Partnerships to fund projects
▶ Well-informed property owners
▶ Electric bikes and speed: education and infrastructure
investments
▶ Visitor evacuation routes and education
▶ HOAs educating their community
▶ Robust, transparent data
▶ Battery backups/grid alternatives
Facilitate Public Safety
Appendix B 30
▶ Scaled HOA emergency preparedness
▶ Consider using zoning and development for EV charging,
ridesharing, parking (especially at the beaches)
▶ Plan for infrastructure changes - autonomous vehicles
▶ Expanded aid during evacuation
▶ HOAs have a buddy system tied to emergency preparedness
▶ Electronic bulletin boards for notifications
▶ Enhanced transit
▶ How do you evacuate if you don’t have a vehicle?
▶ Consider reserve funding to invest in technology as it comes
to Newport
Embrace Innovative Technologies
▶ Maintaining healthy beaches and prioritizing natural
solutions where possible. Phase to “armored” solutions only
after natural solutions are considered
▶ Sea level rise solutions other than a seawall
▶ Fire prevention, climate change protection
▶ Embracing renewable energy
▶ No longer using natural gas in residences to reverse global
warming
▶ Develop long-term planning to protect the harbor and beach
profile
▶ Long-term property protection
▶ Working together with community/council support
▶ Prioritize state/federal funding to better Newport
Beach
▶ Goal: Homes on Newport Shores do not flood
▶ Wind turbines solar panels in parking lots with batteries/
storage
▶ How to prepare for climate change
▶ Promote green energy, both built and natural
▶ Promote community education regarding climate change
and possible solutions and how to pay for it
Promote Coastal Resilience
▶ Tap employers to support their employees and help with
financials
▶ Consider long-term reserved funds to empower coastal
resilience, protect beaches, and protect the harbor
▶ Stretched out expenditures
▶ Private/public partnerships
▶ State and federal funding
▶ Housing for first responders in Newport Beach
▶ Prioritize important items
▶ Reserve funds for coastal resilience
▶ Determine the “needs” to have vs the “want” to have
▶ Infrastructure financing districts - airport, coastal, PCH,
marinas, Peninsula
Administer Financial Resources Responsibly
Appendix B 31
▶ Values: Community, fun, connections
▶ Protected and continued operation of the Balboa Island
ferry
▶ Educate our youth and population on the history of Newport
Beach, flooding risks, and what has been done to protect
us
▶ Balance investments from taxpayer funds with benefits to
the community
▶ Art walk on Balboa Island and other community events
▶ Library lecture hall programming
▶ Holiday Celebrations - 4th of July and Christmas Boat
Parade World-class arts and events locally in Newport Beach
▶ Keeping traditions: Art walk, film festival, boat parade
▶ Investment in venues and lectures to facilitate events and
cultural shows
▶ Book about the Back Bay and presentations and lectures
Celebrate Art, Culture, and History
▶ Natural resources - stay the way they are
▶ Seek other sources/alternatives for fire retardants
▶ Tourist education: share what the City is doing positively
▶ Hotel tax example to keep areas clean
▶ Inform residents what the City is doing now
▶ Clearing beaches to prevent runoff into the ocean
▶ Protect parks and natural land. Find opportunities to
purchase and protect land with environmental value
▶ Education around impacts on the environment (i.e., fires)
▶ Balance fire concerns with other environmental concerns
▶ Fire safety from City leadership
▶ Federal and state funds to address conservation issues -
Partnerships with state
▶ Transparency about what is being done for coastal resilience
measures
▶ Partner with the Army Corps on sand retention
▶ Educate upstream cities about trash and runoff
▶ Marine animal rehabilitation sim[ilar] to the center in Laguna
Beach
Foster Environmental Stewardship
Appendix B 32
▶ What does “Balanced Growth” mean?
▶ Connected communities can be safer during evacuation
▶ Support Newport Beach in delivering services for
seniors
▶ Satellite OASIS office in the Peninsula
▶ Create more opportunities to travel around the city via bike,
walking, or other non-car methods
▶ Meals on Wheels
▶ Community center
▶ Support services on the Peninsula
▶ Most of the community is connected through HOAs
▶ Better cellphone connections
▶ Better access within the community without using cars
▶ Prioritize complete street design in land use and zoning
Maintain a Balanced and Connected Community
▶ More digital media and art in public places
▶ Gas leaf blowers: Some operate under an exemption; explore
electric options; incentives needed
▶ Technology to help planners identify historical/cultural
resources
▶ Privacy vs surveillance leader in building and structures to
attenuate noise and be sustainable
▶ New technology to preserve old buildings
▶ Social media and communication strategies
▶ Staying current with technology
▶ QR codes on our artwork/sculptures to get details on the
art/artist. It is more straightforward to scan than download via
websites
▶ Attract business leaders in sustainable building
practices
▶ Have all development projects go before the arts
board/commission to make sure they align with artistic
standards
▶ More focused TV/video programming on NBTV Shows
▶ More interactive art through phones or even Oculus-type
glasses
▶ Allow sponsorship for concerts and public art. It could be a
QR code but advertise for the arts
▶ Technology can preserve. Make access more efficient to
historical documents or stories
▶ Too many cars - cars park on streets
▶ Technology can continue to enhance arts and cultural
presentations and performances, i.e., Witte Hall
▶ Tours of sustainable buildings
▶ Bring in more AI for all aspects of the police
Embrace Innovative Technologies
Workshop 3: Arts and Culture & Historical Resources
Appendix B 33
▶ Beautify Ocean Blvd with wider and safer sidewalks
▶ Pursue grants
▶ Have the City sponsor a mural contest about bikes and
safety
▶ Noise, odors, and pesticides - public health and safety
design for older adults and those with wheelchairs and walkers
(ADA) police booths at events like Concerts in the Park;
promoting public safety with handouts for kids
▶ Earthquake retrofitting
▶ Public art connection to the public realm
▶ Help fund the seismic upgrade of the Kerckhoff Lab
▶ Public education to prevent crime - too many visitors along
Ocean Blvd.
▶ Community shuttles to Concerts in the Park and events with
neighborhoods not in that district
▶ ADA in facilities that host arts events
▶ More City on-call direct services, i.e., for the unhoused
▶ Having reoccurring significant events/concerts
▶ Always enough seating in event spaces
▶ Preserve, protect, and maintain older facilities
▶ Provide sufficient parking for Witte Hall, Sunday Musicales,
Concerts on the Green + sufficient security for these events
Facilitate Public Safety
▶ Keep the Balboa Ferry running
▶ Maintaining the beauty of our harbor, beaches, and open
spaces
▶ Have more art programs that are relevant for students and
sponsored by the City
▶ More sculptures in parks and integrated throughout the
City
▶ Programming (educational) on resilience
▶ More community programs at the beach and harbor for kids.
▶ Similar to Crystal Cove’s classes about the environment
▶ Have art that doesn’t need much maintenance at the
beaches
▶ Many older Newport Beach residents should be mindful of
the importance of resilience and sustainability
Promote Coastal Resilience
Appendix B 34
▶ Balanced budget with money reserves
▶ Ensure that our financial house is in order
▶ Continue financial support of Arts Commission and sculpture
exhibits in Civic Center Park
▶ The City should allow sponsorships for public art. Not big
signs, but QR codes to help fund the arts
▶ TOT (transient occupancy tax) taxes should contribute to
arts programs
▶ Robust arts and historical budget working with citizens for
donations or companies to sponsor public art and programs
▶ Preserve the cottages
▶ Public art isn’t the forethought but is an afterthought
▶ Consider financial support for a more robust museum
▶ Sell sponsorships for concerts - don’t add more
development fees
▶ Preserve neighborhood aesthetics
▶ The City needs a more significant tax share. Increase taxes
on visitors to allocate to the arts
▶ Mills Act for tax incentives
▶ Art in the park: more visual art in private collections; an
event where people can donate art for fundraising
▶ Ensure Newport Beach doesn’t get too big and too crowded
= not fun
Administer Financial Resources Responsibly
▶ Get the City Council to follow the policies
▶ Library to help promote the GPU
▶ More money for the Arts Commission through grants
▶ Wayfinding, designed pathways - make it clear where the
community can walk and enjoy their surroundings
▶ Preserve and enhance visits - ocean, open space, mountains
▶ More public access points for walking/hiking, like Shell Maker
Island
▶ Promote more artwork that is easily maintained by the City
and not expensive to maintain
▶ Environmental programs can be the subject of arts and
cultural presentation
▶ Some weatherproof sculptures in parks along PCH
▶ History and the environmentalist should work hand-in-hand;
tribal history and preservation of tribal artifacts
Foster Environmental Stewardship
Appendix B 35
▶ More artwork like murals and sculptures scattered
throughout the city
▶ Definition of art - include the many disciplines so that
everyone is included, not just arts organizations
▶ City involvement in revitalizing historic places in Newport
Beach
▶ New art museum and art space - potentially off the lecture
hall
▶ A brochure was created years ago. Create a collective of
organizations, galleries, etc. to collaborate and share resources
- synergy
▶ More use of existing facilities, i.e., the new lecture hall could
be [used for] schools or churches
▶ Coordinate with schools to get kids interested
▶ Recognition and celebration of artists
▶ Better bands for concerts in the park for lack of funding
▶ Funding for Sherman Gardens and new Lido Theater so it’s
accessible
▶ List or map of art and historical resources; 3D visual guide
“felt” software
▶ More culinary events
▶ Expanded Newport Beach app
▶ More public/private art and culture collaborations
▶ Shakespeare or plays in parks
▶ Add an art museum
▶ Events at main venues and tie them together for
experience
▶ Love to see more art and concerts on Newport coast
▶ Concert space like an amphitheater or indoor venue
▶ Keeping art alive and thriving in our city
▶ Bring in the youth into the city’s arts/history. Enhancement
programs
▶ New, permanent facility for the historical museum
▶ Have local artists video with their stories. Present on our City
website with talks in lecture series
▶ Allowing community members to sponsor more arts
programs and artwork with recognition
▶ More murals/City-owned sculptures
▶ Establish funding
▶ Continued promotion of cultural, educational, and
informational programming through library/Witte Hall/Witte
Lectures
▶ Newport Beach has a rich history; continue to honor and
report on it.
▶ Create artist live/workspaces; incentives for affordability and
leniency with zoning
Celebrate Art, Culture, and History
Appendix B 36
▶ More public art in parks
▶ More events and activities that involve the arts that connect
the community
▶ Missing opportunities for young adults, especially with music
▶ Possible art museum
▶ Expand library programs
▶ More advertising public events
▶ Better bands and concerts for the community and
families
▶ Anything outdoors or with boats connecting to the
recreation and gardens
▶ Music programs for high school/young adults
▶ Bigger bands for Concerts on the Green
▶ Maintain/promote villages/charming design
▶ Make it easier to donate to art - sculptures and don’t
complain about maintenance
▶ More exposure to the art we already have, like the sculpture
garden
▶ History that connects current and existing historical aspects
to past historical stories
▶ More beach/water-related public art. Maybe on the harbor or
by the beach
▶ Field trips to the sculpture garden for students
Maintain a Balanced and Connected Community
Workshop 4: Land Use & Harbor, Bay and Beaches
▶ Many more Tesla supercharger charging stations (solar and
free)
▶ Shorter distance to travel for complimentary charging
▶ Self-driving shore boat service
▶ Parking availability info pre-arrival
▶ More availability of charging locations
▶ A tram or monorail to move people from strategically placed
parking lots; a people mover
▶ Healthy place - a place where walking or electric bikes are
accessible
▶ More intersections with “smart” lights, like 15th and
Balboa
▶ Embrace new technologies as they fit in the picturesque
environment
▶ Broadband - internet/communications Infrastructure
▶ Protection from harmful effects on residents’ health caused
by 5G, cloud seedings, and chemtrails
▶ Stop cloud seeding
▶ City to follow the success established in other cities
▶ Eliminate “anti-loitering” or “bird deterrent” machines on the
Balboa Peninsula
Embrace Innovative Technologies
Appendix B 37
▶ Lighted crosswalks on Newport Blvd and Balboa Blvd.
▶ Separate fishing docks
▶ Protect harbor infrastructure/buildings
▶ Note: South Coast Shipyard
▶ Investing in sound science to determine what needs to
happen with increased sea level rise
▶ Lifeguarding program - sustain it
▶ All boats in the harbor adhere to the sanitation requirements
▶ Expand Fire Medics
▶ Rental boars and kayaks regulations and maps to use for
safe locations
▶ Fun Zone needs security - day and nights
▶ Increased enforcement of traffic signals
▶ Address all the “social media: groups that promote activities,
such as the NB Run Club
▶ Increase police force + presence, consider substations
▶ Consider headquarters in the center of Newport
▶ Remove Harbor Resources and reinstate Orange County
Sheriff
▶ Electric bikes on the boardwalk - thinking through the safety
implications of allowing them on the boardwalk
▶ Connectivity using technology to see opportunities where
communication is lacking
▶ Finishing crosswalks on Main Blvd.
▶ Infrastructure aging (seawalls and groins); focus investment
in City & State shoreline
▶ Safe boardwalks
▶ Rescue workers: Sheriffs and Harbor Patrol are equipped
with rescue tools, such as a small scuba air bottle, to dive
down and rescue someone caught in a boat or a helicopter
▶ Boat employees have certifications paid for by the City
▶ Separate bike path
▶ Address crowded boardwalk - difficult for bikes and
walkers
▶ Boating safety and boat knowledge
Facilitate Public Safety
Appendix B 38
▶ Preserve, maximize, and rehabilitate open space
▶ Be environmental leaders in a fiscally responsible way
▶ Water quality issues due to dumping
▶ No power boats over 45 feet
▶ Bring the Orange County Sheriff back
▶ Standard maritime code enforcement - Who will enforce it?
The vetted sheriff’s department was replaced; Harbor
▶ Resources are not available after 5 pm
▶ Pleasure boats along the harbor
▶ A clean bay for swimming
▶ We may be about 1 meter underwater
▶ Sanitation service needs - marina showers and
bathrooms
▶ Rental boat safety
▶ Upcoming trash wheel - similar programming
▶ Trash removal vessels
▶ Public views protected
▶ Keep open space - avoid development in this area
(Peninsula)
▶ Impact of tourism on sea-life and water quality - needs
regulations
▶ People live on their boats - their boats have higher
standards
▶ Protect Banning Ranch
▶ Preventing development in open spaces that Newport Beach
has
▶ No sanitation requirements for boats that aren’t homes
▶ Focus/mention of sea lions
▶ Preserving wildlife
Foster Environmental Stewarship
▶ Prevent erosion
▶ We keep the beaches with plenty of sand
▶ Natural dunes to protect beaches
▶ Development standards for building in coastal areas
▶ Public access to as much of the bay and harbor as possible,
open private docks to the public
▶ Better partnership with the Army Corps for robust sand
replenishment
▶ Continue dredging
▶ Jetty maintenance to preserve public access and
recreation
▶ Prohibit political signs in the harbor on boats/residences on
the harbor, which should be apolitical. It’s tacky!
▶ Eliminate private docks; taking public beaches
▶ Sewage maintained
▶ Having buffer zones to give room for sea level rise
▶ No high-rise development along the coast
Promote Coastal Resilience
Appendix B 39
▶ Correct fact that some boats (on private docks) pay no
tideland fee at all
▶ Get the public involved early in concepts
▶ Make all City expenditures public, including expense reports
from elected officials
▶ Almost no accommodations for dioxins from mooring
▶ Avoid unnecessary projects and expenses
▶ Bring in Elon Musk
▶ People will come if you invest or not - don’t fix if it isn’t
broken
▶ Offer more opportunities for residents/homeowners to
provide input regarding City spending on improvements within
a block of their property
▶ Keep it simple
▶ City needs to be transparent
▶ Exclusivity of village-like feel
▶ Ensure the city fulfills its fiduciary duties for State
Lands
▶ Establish financial goals for equality of dock fees
(landowners and boat owners)
▶ Spend money on low-cost public access since the harbor is
for all Californians
▶ Prioritize improvements on Ocean Blvd.
▶ Transparency in City and Harbor Commission agenda
▶ City to maintain local control by meeting requirements
and serving the needs of all users of the harbor - low-cost
mooring
▶ More considerations for operating within budgets and saving
for the future. Preventing further gentrifications
▶ No covert agenda - TRANSPARENCY
▶ A futuristic harbor with all electric vessels and all-
encompassing with sustainable recreational use for all who
wish to
Administer Financial Resources Responsibly
Celebrate Art, Culture, and History
▶ Maintain the village feel of the city, even with increasing
residential development
▶ Preserve history, art for all
▶ No more cigarette butts on the island or peninsula
▶ Bring back historic wildlife - more ducks, swans, and rare sea
birds
▶ Embrace diversity of all and enforce the “no smoking” rule
near harbors, bays, beaches
▶ Artistic foliage
▶ Recognize the important role affordable boating plays in
fulfilling the public trust doctrine
Appendix B 40
▶ Please keep the common sense, traditions, and character of
the harbor, as it happened naturally
▶ Integrating wildlife into the planning for waterways
▶ Site-specific historical interpretive markers, links,
signage
▶ A community pool at lower Castaways, near the harbor
▶ Encourage respectful interactions between humans and
wildlife
▶ City to leave the moorings alone!
▶ Bring back the “Give a Hoot, Don’t Pollute” campaign and
ticket litterbugs
▶ Access to fishing and surfing
▶ The harbor is the history of Newport Beach
▶ Let’s make sure the harbor is accessible to all Californians
▶ Let’s preserve the 100-year history of mooring permits
▶ Let’s preserve the mooring
▶ Safety in biking, swimming, and walking the beach
▶ Free public museum
▶ Public trust doctrine: Harbor benefits all. The harbor is
special and paid for by taxes. Let’s maximize the access
▶ Preserve waterfront clubs and public access
▶ Preserve the character of the moorings. DO NOT have only
plastic-fantastic yachts replacing the older, classic boats
▶ No hidden leadership activities
Celebrate Art, Culture, and History Continued
▶ Partnerships with nonprofits to help subsidize development
▶ Balanced community - functional…parking? Boardwalk?
Harbor safety? Evacuation plan?
▶ The value of natural spaces enhances the quality-of-life
transportation and connectivity
▶ Small businesses are having a tough time
▶ Low tide - Back Bay, lots of trash. Environmental rules don’t
allow for clean-ups. Is there a different way to access the
trash?
▶ Balance height and density
▶ Cannot compromise the present at the expense of the future
▶ Boating services availability (fuel docks?)
▶ Ensure development plans include a developer’s fee to cover
needed infrastructure/amenities needed for growth in intensity
and use boardwalk/bike paths: separate the paths
▶ Aging infrastructure
▶ Walking and bike paths through Newport.
▶ Development agreements to ensure affordable units
prioritize essential workers in Newport Beach
▶ Trolley through the city and to low-end units
▶ Social Media creates extra presence in areas
Maintain a Balanced and Connected Community
Appendix B 41
APPENDIX C
DRAFT IDEAS TO SUPPORT
THE ELEMENTS
Natural Resources
Balanced ecosystems provide essential services, such as filtering and storing water, storing
carbon in vegetation and soil, purifying the air, providing habitat for wildlife, and creating
visually appealing and enjoyable places for people. Well-functioning ecosystems include
diverse native and naturalized non-invasive species which support complex food webs, a
mix of habitats, and nutrient cycling. Promoting native and environmentally adapted species
across public and private land will enhance and expand an integrated network of resilient
ecosystems.
Goal 1: Ecosystems that are connected and sustainable
Ecosystem restoration and conservation are vital for maintaining unique grassland, woodland,
marsh, dune, and other habitats. Large ecological reserves can serve as nurseries for native
and environmentally adapted species that support smaller ecosystems across Newport Beach.
Further ecosystem restoration could restore additional habitats for protecting endangered
species, building resilience to coastal flooding and sea level rise, and encouraging community
involvement in environmental efforts.
Goal 2: Ecosystems that are conserved and restored
Clean water is necessary for human health, recreation, and aquatic habitat and organisms.
Improving water quality in Newport Bay and in coastal waters can ensure safe enjoyment of
these irreplaceable natural resources for residents and visitors, while continuing to support
the businesses and employers that rely on close proximity to the coast. Reducing stormwater
runoff, restoring floodplains, and preventing waste from entering waterbodies can improve
water quality and realize the benefits of clean water.
Goal 3: Clean water in Newport Bay and the coast
Clean water is a precious resource in Southern California. Reduced indoor and outdoor
water use can play an important role in conserving water. By implementing best practices
for landscaping and irrigation on public property and offering incentives for residents and
commercial businesses to conserve water on their property, the City can do its part in
sustaining long-term water supply.
Goal 4: Water that is conserved and used responsibly
Poor air quality has numerous health consequences, especially for vulnerable populations,
such as children, older adults, and people with asthma. Encouraging walking, biking, and
transit and building more well-designed electric vehicle charging consistent with demand
can help reduce air pollution caused by vehicles, and using landscape barriers along busy
roadways or as a buffer between other potential pollutants can help clean the air before it
reaches sensitive populations.
Goal 5: A city that prevents air pollution and has clean air
Appendix C 42
Sweeping views of the beaches, harbor, and coast distinguish Newport Beach as a city with
unparalleled natural beauty. Viewsheds often hold historic or scenic value and should be
protected for current and future generations. Preserving viewpoints and corridors allows the
public to appreciate the City’s beauty and character.
Goal 6: Viewsheds and corridors that are preserved
Leveraging alternative and renewable energy sources can reduce emissions from vehicles
and buildings. Facilitating a reasonable transition to clean energy vehicles, promoting energy
efficiency of buildings, and utilizing public facilities to generate renewable energy can help
reduce local air pollution and overall reliance on fossil fuels, increasing energy security in the
community.
Goal 7: A city that leverages alternative sources of energy
Phasing out oil production can help achieve the statewide objective of phasing out extraction
of oil and gas by 2045. The transition away from oil extraction presents an opportunity to
prioritize clean energy investments for economic development.
Goal 8: A city with minimal impacts from oil and gas drilling activities
Recreation
Recreation programs enrich community members’ lives by building social connections and
providing opportunities for learning and physical activity. Recreation programs that are
of high-quality and tailored to the community’s needs can foster an engaged and healthy
community.
Goal 1: A community with high-quality recreation programs
Parks are a vital asset in any community, providing opportunities for refuge, recreation, and
socialization, while offering physical and mental health benefits. Newport Beach’s varying
landscape provides a variety of unique recreational opportunities for the community.
Increasing park access and developing recreational opportunities throughout the community
can ensure these benefits are available to all residents of all ages and needs.
Goal 2: New parks and connections that increase resident access to recreation,
parks, and open space opportunities
The preservation and maintenance of open space and park facilities is essential to maintain
community access to recreational opportunities. The maintenance and needed upgrades to
these facilities can help protect City investments while ensuring that residents have continued
access to high-quality recreational facilities that meet changing needs.
Goal 3: Open space, park, and recreation facilities that are preserved, upgraded, and
well-maintained
Coordination with internal departments and outside agencies and organizations creates
opportunities to share resources, promotes effective communication, and can help facilitate
the successful implementation of General Plan goals and policies. Moreover, coordination can
increase the quality of and access to parks and open space through integrated strategies and
efficient use of resources.
Goal 4: A City with established and maintained relationships to facilitate interagency
and interorganizational coordination
Appendix C 43
As the environment changes and the population shifts, it is important that open space
continues to meet community needs and provides benefits to human health, well-being, and
the environment. Finding opportunities to expand or adapt parks and recreation facilities to
serve older adults and people with disabilities can help to serve all residents now and in the
future. Furthermore, designing parks and recreation facilities to be resilient to extreme heat,
flooding, and wildfire can ensure these amenities continue to function despite environmental
changes.
Goal 5: Parks and recreation facilities that are adapted to meet a variety of needs for
existing and future residents, including people with disabilities
Beaches are one of the most important public open spaces for providing relief during hot
summer days and access to the ocean. Maintaining physical access points and supportive
facilities and services can help protect continued public beach access.
Goal 6: A City that protects public beach access
Support facilities are an important aspect of providing parks and recreation spaces that are
highly used and enjoyed by the community. Support facilities include but are not limited to,
restrooms, showers, lifeguard towers, parking, and staffing. Providing and maintaining facilities
needed to support varying recreational spaces in the City can help ensure parks and open
spaces are enjoyed by the community and maintain a high-quality level of service.
Goal 7: Adequate support facilities in open space and recreation facilities
Coastal Resilience
Coastal communities face additional challenges as it relates to flooding from tsunamis,
rogue waves, king tides, storm surges, seiche, and precipitation that continues to intensify
as sea-levels rise. With more frequent storms, it is important that the City and community
are prepared for flood risks, especially along the coast. While infrastructure can protect
the community in the event of flooding, it is also important that existing and planned
development is modified and built to last and that the community is aware of how to best
protect themselves and their property.
Goal 1: A community that is resilient to coastal flooding
Infrastructure is an essential component of a community and must be developed and
maintained to adequately respond to flood hazards. Sufficient infrastructure can consist of
both nature-based and gray solutions to protect the community during storms, king tides,
and other potential flood events. As the extent of flooding changes, the type of infrastructure
needed may also change. Therefore, this goal is intended to address changing needs
associated with flooding and the steps needed to adequately plan for such infrastructure.
Goal 2: A community protected from floods through adequate and well-maintained
infrastructure
The City’s beaches are an essential part of the community, providing recreational
opportunities, driving tourism, which contributes to the local economy, supporting natural
ecosystems, and protecting inland areas from flooding. Efforts to minimize erosion and the
loss of sand will help protect the shoreline and maintain beaches.
Goal 3: Beaches that are maintained and protected from erosion
Bluffs are an important part of the City’s landscape, providing valuable views, development
of homes and other uses, and offering natural habitat for many plant and animal species. The
land formations in and around Upper Newport Bay and the coastal cliffs and bluffs in and
proximate to Corona del Mar are some of the most vulnerable. Development near coastal
bluffs is vulnerable to damage from erosion or complete loss due to landslides.
Goal 4: Stabilized bluffs to minimize erosion and prevent landslides in developed
areas
Appendix C 44
Projects and programs to manage the shoreline require up-to-date data for flood-prone
locations, the direction and rate of sand and bluff erosion, among other information on
changing conditions. Current, high-quality data allows for a more tailored, responsive
approach to managing the shoreline.
Goal 5: Current and accessible data and information on flooding, beach erosion, and
bluff erosion
Safety
Because no two disasters are ever the same, high quality public safety requires significant
planning and preparation to support a variety of needs in a variety of conditions. Public safety
must consider needed facilities, equipment, staff, training, public education, planning, and post
disaster recovery. Adequate planning and preparation lead to strong response and recovery
from hazard events, including fire, flooding, coastal hazards such as tsunamis and rogue
waves, earthquakes, geologic hazards such as landslides, and extreme heat.
Goal 1: High-quality public safety, emergency preparedness, and response services
Evacuation strategies are important to help ensure public safety and prevent injuries in an
emergency. The need for evacuation could arise as a result of a hazard event and could involve
either small or large numbers of people, depending on the type and extent of a hazard event.
Therefore, effective evacuation strategies are key to protecting public health and safety and
providing efficient access for first responders.
Goal 2: Evacuation routes and centers that are maintained to provide functionality
during hazardous conditions
Communication systems are an essential component of emergency preparedness and
response. Effective communication systems can help facilitate response efforts, connect
people to resources, and educate people about emergency preparedness and response.
Goal 3: Tested and effective communication systems for emergency preparedness
and response
As urban and wildfire hazards can impact communities across Newport Beach, mitigation
strategies and limits to new or redevelopment may be necessary. Many hillside communities
in the eastern portion of the City, in and surrounding Newport Coast are in a very high fire
hazard severity zone. Homes, businesses, and other structures in these areas must be adapted
to prevent the spread of fire.
Goal 4: Reduced and well-managed urban and wildland fire hazards
While minimal, some areas of the City that are not along the coast are still vulnerable to
flooding. Inland flooding can occur in flood plains and low-lying areas when rainfall exceeds
the amount that can be absorbed by the ground or accommodated by channels. While most
flood risks exist in areas closest to the shoreline, it is important that inland flooding potential is
also considered for the protection of existing and planned development.
Goal 5: A community that is resilient to and protected from inland flooding
As summer temperatures continue to get hotter and heat waves become more common, the
City must adapt to changing temperatures to protect the health of residents and visitors,
particularly vulnerable populations. Strategies such as air conditioning, home weatherization,
and increased shade in public areas can help the community stay cool on hot days.
Goal 6: A built environment adapted to provide relief from extreme heat
Appendix C 45
While difficult to predict, seismic and geologic events pose a risk to physical structures. While
new buildings are held to higher standards to be resilient to such events, existing buildings can
be modified to minimize structural damage.
Goal 7: Buildings and utilities that are protected from seismic and geologic hazards
John Wayne Airport produces noise in the vicinity of the airport and its general aviation flight
path. Additionally, the airport contributes to air quality in the vicinity of the airport. To the
extent practicable, and consistent with the Settlement Agreement, there are actions the City
can take to influence airport operations and help protect future residents from noise and air
pollution.
Goal 8: A community protected from airport-related hazards
Hazardous materials produced from manufacturing and industrial facilities have the potential
to negatively impact public health and safety and degrade the environment if not properly
managed. Although hazardous materials are primarily regulated by state and federal agencies,
local governments play a pivotal role in hazard mitigation planning, enforcement and
inspection of hazardous waste generators, and increasing public awareness.
Goal 9: A community protected from impacts of hazardous materials
Providing a sense of comfort and safety in the public realm can be achieved through design
and development that encourages “eyes on the street.” The concept of “eyes on the street”
uses place-based design in public spaces to increase community awareness, build social
cohesion, improve community bonds, enhance sense of safety, and increase social interaction.
Designing for safety can include regular maintenance of parks, lighting, trash, and streets;
which requires a level of fiscal responsibility. Further, balanced communities with opportunities
for a mix of uses such as residential, retail, employment, and visitor serving uses, can draw
people at all hours of the day; increasing “eyes on the street” and community safety.
Goal 10: A community where residents, employees, and visitors feel a sense of
comfort and safety
Arts and Culture
Arts, culture, library, literary, education opportunities, and creativity can enhance quality of
life for residents, improve visitor experiences, and contribute to the local economy. Expanding
exposure to the arts and culture brings a unique sense of identity to Newport Beach and
connects residents to their community and those around them through shared experiences.
Goal 1: A community enriched by and connected to the arts, culture, libraries, and
education
Raising awareness and generating enthusiasm for the arts is key to increasing participation
in programs, exhibits, and events. This entails marketing materials throughout the city, social
media campaigns, and creating new ways for people to engage in the arts through interactive
technologies. A multi-faceted approach that includes traditional and novel outreach and
engagement methods can capture the attention of residents and visitors of all ages.
Goal 2: Programs and exhibits within the City are widely promoted, marketed, and
attended
Appendix C 46
Investment from philanthropic organizations, the City, and community members can help
the arts thrive by supporting local, emerging, and other artists, providing new and upgraded
facilities, and bolstering programs. While funding should support art from withing and outside
Newport Beach, funding for local art should be prioritized. Such financial contributions to the
arts can increase not only the quantity of art and programs in the community but the quality.
Funding and investment should reflect the high value placed on the arts in the community.
Goal 3: Funding that helps artists and art programs flourish
Facilities dedicated to the arts, such as galleries and performance and lecture halls, provide a
place for the community to gather in appreciation of the arts, education, and culture and to
promote Newport Beach as a regional destination for the arts. Additionally, integrating art in
existing community centers, libraries, recreation facilities, parks and other open space, and in
private buildings play a vital role in realizing Newport Beach as a city of the arts.
Goal 4: State-of-the-art facilities to host art exhibits and programs
A well-functioning system for accepting, maintaining, and rotating art throughout public
spaces, including The Sculpture Exhibition in Civic Center Park, and facilities helps sustain
renewed interest and ensure high quality of exhibits. Developing guidelines and criteria for
accepting art donations and acquisitions and dedicating staff to manage public art can ensure
the system for managing art is consistent and smoothly operates.
Goal 5: A wide collection of art exhibited throughout the city
Partnerships are crucial for maintaining existing and realizing new opportunities to cultivate
art and culture exhibits, programs, events, and funding. Strong coordination between City staff
and private institutions; partner agencies; and local, emerging, and other artist organizations
can facilitate community involvement in arts and culture, procurement of funding, and
successful management of public art.
Goal 6: A City with strong partnerships that support thriving arts, culture, and
education
Preserving the city’s history is essential for maintaining its unique identity and cultural
heritage. By celebrating and safeguarding historically significant land marks, sites, structures,
and legacy businesses, the city can honor the stories and achievements of past generations.
Further, by recognizing and celebrating those that have contributed to Newport Beach’s past,
present, and future, our storied history can be captured. The recognition and protection of
history not only enriches a community’s sense of place and continuity but fosters civic pride
and can attract tourism.
Goal 1: A city that celebrates, preserves, and protects its history
Education is a key tool for enshrining the city’s history and ensuring that future generations
appreciate and understand this heritage. Integrating local history into City-sponsored, library,
and other programs and events and promoting it through various media can create a well-
informed community that values its roots. This awareness not only enhances residents’
connection to their city but also helps future generations value the past.
Goal 2: A city that enshrines its history through education
Historical Resources
Appendix C 47
Documenting and protecting archaeological and paleontological resources is crucial for
preserving the evidence human history and life forms of the distant past. These resources
inform our understanding of ancient ecosystems and cultures. This stewardship fosters a
culture of respect and responsibility, ensuring that future generations can continue to learn
from and appreciate this history.
Goal 3: Well documented and protected archaeological and paleontological resources
The foundational history of Tribal nations of the city’s land provides unique insight into the
importance of cultural places. Native American groups and individuals hold special interest
in the protection of cultural places. Tribal views toward protection and preservation of
cultural resources in the city should be respected and the history of Tribal nations should be
recognized and celebrated.
Goal 4: A City and community that celebrates tribal cultural resources
Land Use
Well planned and thoughtfully designed neighborhoods contribute to quality of life for
residents and support community-wide needs. While each neighborhood has a distinct and
unique identity expressed through design and development patterns, all neighborhoods
should be well-maintained and have diverse, cohesive development. Planned development
should integrate sophisticated urban design that is compatible with neighborhood
characteristics to blend with the surrounding urban fabric.
Goal 1: Distinct neighborhoods and villages that accommodate planned
development while maintaining their unique character
Each planning sub-area has individual characteristics that must be considered when planning
to accommodate planned development. Some planning sub-areas are identified as housing
opportunity sites, including the Airport Area, Newport Center, and West Newport Mesa,
while others prioritize commercial, open space, or other uses, such as Balboa Peninsula, Lida
Village, Cannery Village, and McFadden Square; Balboa Village; Corona del Mar; Old Newport
Boulevard, and West Newport Mesa. New development can be accommodated in a way that
maintains the characteristics of the area and creates longstanding neighborhoods that are
cherished by the community.
Goal 2: Planning sub-areas that accommodate planned housing development in a
cohesive manner
Utilizing land in an efficient manner is important for the local economy, environment,
and balanced communities. Development should be planned carefully to accommodate
community needs while preserving natural resources. Opportunities to utilize land efficiently
and create livable neighborhoods can include, creating pedestrian friendly spaces through
design and development standards such as “building to curb,” incentives to encourage
enhanced landscaping and streetscapes to seamlessly blend development and the public
realm, and flexible approaches to parking to unlock new building typologies and encourage
high-quality architecture.
Goal 3: Efficient use of land to create livable neighborhoods and support economic
development
Maintaining adequate water, power, and transportation infrastructure is crucial for servicing
existing and new development. However, population growth and environmental change can
make this more challenging. A larger population and increased energy and water demand can
strain infrastructure capacity, and hazards such as extreme heat, flooding, and fire can lead
to damage or disrepair. Infrastructure can be adapted, upgraded, and designed to integrate
emerging technologies to be more resilient to these impacts.
Goal 4: Infrastructure that supports new development, maintains and improves
existing development, and is adaptable to new technologies
Appendix C 48
Permitting new development to achieve the goals of the General Plan hinges on an effective
system for processing development permits. Ensuring staff have the capacity and resources
to guide development review from pre-application meeting to final approval can enhance the
efficiency of the process. Well-organized coordination between different departments and
agencies can streamline operations, leading to more successful project outcomes.
Goal 5: A prompt and efficient system for development permit processing
Newport Beach has distinct neighborhoods that together contribute to the charm and unique
sense of place of the city. Residential neighborhoods should be of high-quality design. Design
standards should consider compatibility with existing neighborhoods including the scale of
development, privacy, and amenities. Residential neighborhoods should contribute to Newport
Beach’s livability by thoughtfully planning the location and types of housing permitted.
Goal 6: Residential neighborhoods that are well-designed and contribute the
livability and quality of life of residents
Commercial districts and centers create opportunities for shopping, employment,
socialization, and provide essential services and goods for the community. The design of
commercial districts and centers is important for shaping how residents and visitors use,
access, and interact with these types of establishments.
Goal 7: Commercial districts and centers are well-planned and exhibit a high level of
architectural and landscape quality
Mixed-use districts contribute to balanced communities through the integration of residential,
employment, retail, recreation, and service-oriented uses. These uses contribute to a high
quality of life for residents and local businesses, such as, increased walkability, creating vibrant
spaces, economic development, and access to amenities. Mixed-use districts should be paired
with high-quality design to contribute to neighborhood character and flexibility in uses that is
responsive to market demands.
Goal 8: Mixed-use districts are designed and planned to ensure compatibility among
a variety of uses
Well-planned and designed office and business districts can provide a high-quality working
environment for employees and serve the surrounding community. Office and business
parks should integrate a campus-style environment through design elements that promote
connectivity, common spaces such courtyards, and encourage pedestrian activity. Office and
business districts located adjacent to residential uses should encourage a mix of community-
serving commercial uses to serve nearby residents and expand the use of the area outside of
regular work-day hours.
Goal 9: Office and business parks exhibit a high-quality image, are attractive,
and provide quality working environments for employees and services for the
community
Co-location of industrial and residential uses can be a good way to provide more homes,
create and protect local employment, and foster innovation. New innovations in materials and
technologies are making industry cleaner, greener, and quieter. Industrial districts should be
encouraged to support changing neighborhoods, while providing a dynamic mix of uses that
are both sensitive to and supportive of residents and employees. While maintaining Newport
Beach’s values and community character, industrial districts can provide an opportunity for
uses that support innovation, creativity, and the arts in existing industrial areas in response to
market demands.
Goal 10: Industrial districts that provide flexibility to incorporate community-serving
uses and encourage transition to co-locate employment, residential, and creative
and artistic uses
Appendix C 49
Co-location of industrial and residential uses can be a good way to provide more homes,
create and protect local employment, and foster innovation. New innovations in materials and
technologies are making industry cleaner, greener, and quieter. Industrial districts should be
encouraged to support changing neighborhoods, while providing a dynamic mix of uses that
are both sensitive to and supportive of residents and employees. While maintaining Newport
Beach’s values and community character, industrial districts can provide an opportunity for
uses that support innovation, creativity, and the arts in existing industrial areas in response to
market demands.
Goal 11: Public and institutional uses that enhance the quality of life for residents and
are located and designed to complement Newport Beach’s neighborhoods
Harbor, Bay, and Beaches
High-quality beaches are clean, have high-quality sand, ensure safe and sufficient access, and
provide amenities such as restrooms, showers, and parking. By maintaining high beach quality,
the city can enhance the user experience, boost tourism, and maintain the vibrant, coastal
community.
Goal 1: High quality beaches that are enjoyed by residents and visitors
Access to coastal resources provides recreational, health, and economic benefits. The harbor,
bay, and beaches should be valued for the recreational opportunities they provide and access
should be provided and maintained for current and future generations. Enhanced recreational
opportunities and user amenities should be available at appropriate locations to enhance the
user experience.
Goal 2: Coastal resources that are easily accessed and rich with recreational
opportunities
A healthy marine environment is essential for recreational activities including swimming,
fishing, and boating as well as the preservation of natural species and their habitat.
Management of coastal ecosystems and ensuring environmentally friendly practices can
benefit both the community and the environment, maintaining high water quality.
Goal 3: A healthy coastal ecosystem
Administration and management of the harbor, bay, and beaches includes coordination
between various regulatory agencies and departments, balanced public investment with
revenue, and well-maintained public facilities. Efficient and effective management policies will
maintain the City’s ability to provide high quality services that are accessible to a broad range
of people and businesses.
Goal 4: Well-managed and economically productive harbor, bay, and beaches
Attracting tourism while preserving the unique character of coastal neighborhoods is key to
maintaining the city’s charm and appeal. This includes maintaining architectural components
that match the city’s character as well as protection of coastal dependent uses and local
businesses. By supporting a tourism industry that celebrates Newport Beach’s cultural and
historic resources and community feeling, the City can create an attractive environment for
residents and visitors alike.
Goal 5: A harbor, bay, and beaches that attract tourism and maintain the character of
coastal neighborhoods
Appendix C 50
Recreation and commercial use of the bay and harbor depend on prioritizing coastal
dependent uses and coastal related uses, such as boating launches, storage, and rentals;
tourism serving uses, including hotels and retail; recreation; habitat; and scenic areas. These
uses contribute to the local economy, resident and visitor activities, and the character of the
community.
Goal 6: Preserved coastal-dependent uses that contribute to the charm and
character of the harbor, bay, and beaches
In order for the harbor and bay to be successful, it must provide a variety of businesses and
services to adequately meet the needs of users. Such businesses and services include but are
not limited to vessel and recreational rentals, sightseeing and harbor tours, yacht clubs, fuel
docks, public launch ramps, and more. Further, the use of these facilities and amenities should
be accessible and safe for all users to avoid conflicts where they may occur and guide visitors
to protect public health and safety.
Goal 7: Waterfront Businesses and Services that contribute to a successful harbor
and bay
Appendix C 51
APPENDIX D
DRAFT GOALS
PARTICIPANT INPUT
Below are the complete written comments, edited lightly for clarity, from each workshop. They
are organized by the goal the sticky note was added to.
Recreation
Goal: New parks and connections that
increase resident access to recreation, parks,
and open space opportunities▶ New parks should be environmentally
friendly, i.e., incorporating native landscapes
when appropriate▶ Promoting environmentally friendly buses
and trolleys to access
Natural Resources
Goal: Viewsheds and corridors that are
preserved▶ Viewsheds should be preserved.
Let’s please explore sand retention/
replenishment with ideas other than dunes,
e.g., reefs
Goal: Water that is conserved and used
responsibly ▶ Remember freshwater as a limited
resource (and high cost)! Promote activities
that can save one of our most precious
resources and keep those freshwater creeks
as clean as possible for the environment.
Arts & Culture
Goal: Funding that helps artists and art
programs flourish▶ Sponsorship to promote and fund the arts▶ Make funding fun▶ Funding is important for Historical
Resources▶ Skill building in arts management▶ City grants: Staff to pursue funds
Goal: A community enriched by and
connected to the arts, culture, libraries, and
education▶ Things get lost in history: Newport Beach
has an official song▶ Make Newport Beach more artistic. Have
way more public art, murals, sculptures, and
paintings on utility boxes
Historical Resources
Goal: Well-documented and protected
archaeological and paleontological
resources▶ Emphasize “Stewardship”
Goal: A City and community that celebrates
tribal cultural resources▶ Emphasize “Preservation”
Goal: A city that enshrines its history
through education▶ Emphasize “Appreciate” and
“Understand”▶ Emphasize “Awareness”
Goal: A city that celebrates, preserves, and
protects its history▶ Oral History▶ Historical Trees and Gardens▶ Needs Funding
Harbor, Bay, and Beaches
Goal: A healthy coastal ecosystem▶ Seeing more fish with cleaner water▶ Protect marine wildlife
Goal: A harbor, bay, and beaches that attract
tourism and maintain the character of
coastal neighborhoods▶ Add “ Maximize public access to our
waters.”
Goal: Waterfront Businesses and Services
that contribute to a successful harbor and
bay▶ Add “Preserve Low-cost Moorings”
Costal Resilience: No comments were
added.
Safety: No comments were added.
Land Use: No comments were added.
Appendix D 52
APPENDIX E
HOUSING OVERLAY SITES &
COMMUNITY SUB-AREA MAPS
The complete written comments, edited lightly for clarity, can be found below for each
subarea map. In addition, photos of the maps accompany the written comments.
Newport Center
▶ Community centers▶ The end of the peninsula is called “Peninsula
Point.”▶ Considering a dock at the Marina Park beach▶ At Mariner’s Mile, maintain boating inclusivity ▶ Fun Zone needs 24-hour security ▶ Duck-friendly feeding areas▶ Habitat preservation▶ Foster respect for egrets and night herons
that nest on Balboa Peninsula▶ Traffic problem - Macarthur and Jamboree▶ Bird sanctuaries▶ Hiking trails▶ “Urban forests,” e.g., Huntington Beach, off
Eliset and Golden West▶ Public putting course + 18-hole course▶ Great concerts▶ More parking
▶ Local office space (at subarea off of East
Bluff Dr. near the Boys and Girls Club)▶ Modern & sophisticated development▶ Protect the views - shorter buildings, no
Century City ▶ Plenty of room and availability to build up
room for walk/live/play▶ Sight plan ordinance▶ Avoid Century City look-alike▶ Limit heights of new development in
Newport Center▶ Pedestrian oriented▶ Bike paths, grocery stores, urgent cares▶ It is a balanced community ▶ Miniature trolley/local transportation▶ Underground tunnels + connected
pedestrian paths to all residential areas
Appendix E 53
Airport Area
▶ Shopping, grocery store, amenities▶ Finding a historical, notable legend - name it
after them▶ The City should hold workshops in each
of the closest areas to the “sub-areas.” If no
current residential exists, then meet with
business and property owners. (Airport Area is
not being represented)▶ Keep buffer zone to expand the bay▶ Endangered species nest here! (Ridgeway)
Keep the buffer▶ Urban City center - becomes a gathering
space▶ Office usage - density balance to support
parking▶ Need a community center▶ Good area for deaf people▶ Workforce housing ▶ Parking management opportunity ▶ On-site parks, no in-lieu fees▶ Need more bike connectivity to the bay
Safe paths for bikes and scooters▶ Noise will impact open space▶ There is so much opportunity for mixed-use,
but it needs to have parking ▶ More walkable retail shopping to support the
population▶ Irvine Ave is already congested. It would be
interesting to turn this area into an “uptown.”▶ Consider daycare and K-6 private education
in the area since the Airport Area is in the
Santa Ana School District
▶ Watch County plans for connections from
Back Bay to Fairgrounds▶ Need more services for residents, e.g.
grocery store▶ Attract tech and finance buildings▶ Service and entertainment corridor▶ Urban nightlife - music clubs▶ Connectivity that is not car-reliant - trolley
or shuttle▶ Incentivize young professionals and young
families▶ Call it “Uptown Newport”▶ Airport Area stakeholder incentives: retail
businesses, commercial office businesses,
property owners, future residents, airport
association users▶ Integrate residents and businesses▶ Create an identity that welcomes everyone▶ Workshop in the Airport Area - daycare
and K-6 schools; small businesses▶ Commercial service and entertainment▶ Think “The Grove’ in LA - Accessible urban
city center▶ Higher density parking ▶ Enhanced infrastructure; Financial district -
“Special Districts”▶ Community Plan for the infrastructure,
parks, mixed-use…area with pedestrian
walkways
Appendix E 54
West Newport Mesa/Banning Ranch/Cannery McFadden
▶ Emphasis on workforce housing, e.g., for
Hoag employees▶ Call it WE - West End▶ Waterfront walkway, safe, walkable
community ▶ Consider hybrid zoning - similar look and feel
to Cannery Village▶ Nice coffee shop ▶ More education ▶ Preserve harbor industry▶ Consider hybrid zoning, e.g., a coffee shop
on the bottom floor, apartments on the second
floor (Cannery Village)▶ Fast cars on the superior need to slow▶ Encourage clean industrial▶ No tall buildings▶ Preserve boating industry▶ Preserve views for those on the hill▶ Pedestrian-friendly parking lot ▶ Lighting on street and sidewalk▶ Walkability; enhanced streetscape - safety
for women▶ Support Hoag and have a high-quality
hospital system in Newport
▶ Bike lands and parking▶ Better connectivity between West Newport
and the Peninsula, such as better walks on
Coast Highway ▶ Not blocking views - could do high-housing
seniors with close access to hospital ▶ High traffic in Dover will get busier with the
pool▶ Please don’t use coastal access for a pool▶ Utility undergrounding - Newport Heights
and West Cliff/Dover Drive▶ Build a community pool▶ Protect Upper Bay▶ Parks + Recreation - Community Amenities▶ Protect buffer zone - no development
along the Back Bay; no community pool at
lower Castaways Park▶ Open space and full harbor access at lower
Castaways ▶ Meet housing needs; consideration needs
to be given to going higher
Appendix E 55
▶ Generally, like the name “Coyote Canyon”▶ Shopping center to accommodate an increase in housing density ▶ Affordable housing?▶ Better public trail connections to the Back Bay from the UCI Area▶ Senior and Affordable Housing ▶ Housing Views – Looking north is a beautiful view▶ Prioritize parks and walkable retail alongside high-density mixed-use▶ Landfill closed in 1996 - no houses should go here▶ High-density housing▶ This area is part of the Big Canyon Watershed - there is plenty of room for additional
housing ▶ Remember buffer zones for the environment around Buck Gully▶ Golf Course plus trail connectivity ▶ Build a “main street” concept
Coyote Canyon
Appendix E 56