Townhomes near Nixon library get OK, to finish in two years
Oct. 04, 2013
By DANEL LANGHORNE / ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER / September 12, 2013
The developer of 51 townhomes is expected to break ground on a site across the street from the Nixon Presidential Library & Museum by October after being greenlighted by the Planning Commission.
The commission unanimously approved the project proposed by Brandywine Homes, which will be on 5.1 acres southeast of Yorba Linda Boulevard and Eureka Avenue.
Construction of the townhomes will take two years; the land is mostly vacant now.
“The Brandywine Project across from the Nixon Library not only represents a revitalization of the area, it is a step in the right direction in providing a diversified housing stock for residents of all ages,” said Planning Commissioner Karalee Watson in an email.
Brett Whitehead, president of Brandywine Homes, presented the design of the project to the Planning Commission last week. The developer plans to integrate the non-gated community into the surrounding area with craftsman-style architecture, stone veneer and landscaping similar to the Presidential Walk community north of the library.
The floor plans include 1,800 to 2,100 square feet per home and feature three or four bedrooms and two-car garages.
Among the amenities will be a clubhouse with a community meeting room, a pool area, a grassy area where children can play, and benches.
Jim Burke of Anaheim Hills said his family has owned the site of the future homes, 18022 Yorba Linda Blvd., since 1953 and has been trying to develop it for the past 12 years. He said there have been roadblocks.
Yorba Linda voters passed Measure B in 2006, which mandates a citywide vote on rezoning to high-density housing. The property was rezoned last year after Measures H and I were passed by the city’s voters. Burke said a group of residents also unsuccessfully tried to have his property recognized as historic around 2007.
“I’ve got to say, as we worked to find a win-win development, I have been very impressed with Brandywine Homes and Brett Whitehead and his dedication at creating a development that would work not only for the owners that are there currently … but would be a win-win for the Nixon library and for the residents of Yorba Linda,” Burke said.
If no one appeals the decision to the City Council by Wednesday, it will stand.
