Big changes are on the horizon for Temecula as the city’s Planning Commission prepares to review three major housing projects this week. These developments are part of the expansive 270-acre Altair Specific Plan, which promises to transform the area west of Old Town Temecula. A New Way to Live in Temecula – Altair by Brookfield Residential (altairtemecula.com)
What’s On the Table?
The three proposed communities include a total of 467 housing units. Here’s the breakdown:
- 99 Detached Three-Story Single-Family Homes: These homes range from 2,011 to 2,213 square feet, offering spacious living for families.
- 156 Duplexes: These two- and three-story units range from 1,665 to 2,384 square feet, providing a variety of options for prospective buyers.
- 212 Rowhouses: Spread across 45 buildings, these attached units range from 1,404 to 1,718 square feet, designed for those seeking a more compact and community-oriented living space.
In addition to housing, the plan includes two parks, each under an acre, offering green spaces for recreation within the communities.
The Bigger Picture: Altair Specific Plan
The Altair Specific Plan goes beyond just these initial developments. The entire plan envisions up to 1,750 residential units, making it one of the most ambitious housing projects in the region. The plan also includes:
- An elementary school
- Commercial spaces
- A clubhouse
- Civic sites
- Parks and trails
These features are designed to create a self-sustained, vibrant community that integrates residential, educational, and recreational needs.
A Balancing Act: Development and Conservation
The Altair project has not been without controversy. Environmental concerns, particularly regarding the impact on local wildlife, have been at the forefront. The area serves as a critical corridor for the endangered Santa Ana mountain lions, which have seen their habitats increasingly fragmented.
In October 2020, a significant legal agreement was reached to protect a 55-acre “south parcel” of the development area. This agreement ensures that the wildlife corridor remains intact, allowing mountain lions and other species to move between coastal and inland mountains. Conservation groups, including the Center for Biological Diversity and the Sierra Club, played a pivotal role in securing this protection.
What’s Next?
The Temecula Planning Commission will meet on August 21st to review these proposals. This meeting is a crucial step in determining the future of these developments and the broader Altair Specific Plan. If approved, these projects will mark the beginning of a new chapter for West Old Town Temecula, bringing both opportunities and challenges to the community.
For residents and potential investors, this is a pivotal moment. The development could bring a surge in property values and new amenities, but it also raises important questions about the balance between growth and conservation.
Stay tuned as this story unfolds—Temecula is on the brink of significant transformation.
Large Housing Development West Of Old Town Temecula Moving Forward | Temecula, CA Patch