Newport Beach city councilmembers have unanimously advanced plans for a surf park, signaling an intent to override objections from the Orange County Airport Land Use Commission. The proposed "Snug Harbor Surf Park" aims to transform a portion of the Newport Beach Golf Course into a surf lagoon and clubhouse, despite the commission’s safety zone concerns.
Key Takeaways
- Newport Beach City Council voted to signal intent to override the Airport Land Use Commission’s findings.
- The commission cited safety zone concerns due to the project’s proximity to John Wayne Airport flight paths.
- The surf park project has already received unanimous recommendations from the Planning Commission.
Project Details and Airport Commission’s Objections
The "Back Bay Barrels" project proposes to revamp an existing driving range, three golf holes, a pro shop, and a restaurant and bar at the Newport Beach Golf Course site. The development includes a large surf lagoon and a three-story clubhouse, located approximately half a mile from John Wayne Airport.
The Orange County Airport Land Use Commission, in a 5-1 vote, found the project inconsistent with the Airport Environs Land Use Plan. The commission’s primary concern revolved around safety zones, stating that the project, including parts of the surf lagoon, would attract a higher density of people per acre than is standard in an area where airplane takeoff and landing paths are established. A commission staff report highlighted that flights would regularly pass as low as 500 feet above the proposed surf park, recommending that group recreational uses and large assemblages of people be prohibited in such zones.
City Council’s Stance and Public Reaction
Despite the commission’s findings, Newport Beach councilmembers are moving forward. Assistant City Manager Seimone Jurjis clarified that the council’s resolution was not about the project’s merits but about signaling their intent to override the commission’s decision.
During the public hearing, some residents echoed the commission’s safety concerns. Jim Mosher raised worries about the potential for a dozen special events at the surf park with no occupancy limits, suggesting that overriding the commission could shift liability to the city. Adam Leverenz also emphasized the increased risk and liability compared to existing golf courses with fewer people.
Next Steps for the Surf Park
The Newport Beach Planning Commission had previously unanimously recommended the council approve the project’s environmental impact report and conditional use permit on September 4. The surf park is expected to accommodate 1,400 visitors daily, with up to 388 people present at any given time. The City Council is scheduled to formally vote on overriding the commission’s objections and approving the surf park on October 28.
Sources
- Newport Beach to bypass airport commission’s concerns over surf park project, Los Angeles Times.
