1.1 Introduction to the Specific Plan

The East Area 1 Specific Plan property is located in Ventura County, California, and is situated at the eastern edge of the City of Santa Paula (Figures 1-1 and 1-2). The City of Santa Paula is generally located directly north of Highway 126, west of the City of Fillmore, and East of the City of San Buenaventura. The property comprises approximately 501 acres and is bounded by hillside agricultural land to the north, Haun Creek to the east, Main Street and Ventura County Transportation Commission (VCTC) railroad right-of-way to the south, and Santa Paula Creek to the west. Direct access to the site from the surrounding region is provided by Highway 126 or Main Street via the Southern Pacific Rail Road. Additionally, the Specific Plan includes the construction of a bridge to allow access to the site via Santa Paula Street.

Although the East Area 1 Property is currently located within the unincorporated area of Ventura County, the entitlement process for the Specific Plan Property includes annexation of the Property into the City of Santa Paula. Therefore, the City of Santa Paula General Plan is the applicable document with which the Specific Plan must comply. Consequently, this Specific Plan treats the City of Santa Paula General Plan as the document of record.

The City of Santa Paula is located in the heart of the Santa Clara River Valley and surrounded by groves of oranges, lemons and avocados. The historical significance of the citrus industry led the City to be known as the Citrus Capital of the World.

Santa Paula is a city steeped in cultural diversity and a blended heritage, which have made it the unique community it is today. Celebrated for its sense of tradition and architectural integrity, the city is a virtual showcase of classic architectural styles, from American Farmhouse, Mission and California Bungalows, to the more ornate Queen Anne and English Tudor.

Santa Paula's colorful history can be traced through its diverse residential areas, as well as classic structures like the Limoneira Building, the Mill Building, and the California Oil Museum. This historic character will be the foundation of residential and commercial architectural design within the East Area 1 Specific Plan Area.

Figure 1-1: Regional Location Map

Figure 1-2: Specific Plan Area Location

This Specific Plan includes comprehensive development guidelines and implementation measures to ensure the creation of a vibrant, livable community with readily accessible amenities and attractive streetscapes and public places.

In addition, a continuous network of permanent open space is provided along Santa Paula and Haun Creeks to help balance the requirements of a new urbanized area with the need to protect wildlife habitat, provide recreational opportunities, and buffer neighboring agricultural activities.