Warmington Residential project moves forward after heated public debate over traffic concerns, orange grove preservation, and housing density in historic corridor.
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Riverside City Council Approves Controversial 49-home Development on Victoria Avenue Despite Community Opposition
Warmington Residential project moves forward after heated public debate over traffic concerns, orange grove preservation, and housing density in historic corridor.
A gated grove at the corner of La Sierra and Victoria avenues. (Ken Crawford)
City Council voted 6-1 to approve Warmington Residential's 49-home development on Victoria Avenue, overturning the Planning Commission's recommendation and dismissing community opposition.
Driving the news: The project will subdivide 9.91 acres of existing orange groves into single-family homes, using state density bonus law to achieve higher density than typically allowed.
The development includes three affordable housing units for very low-income households.
Why it matters: The decision highlights the tension between local control and state housing mandates, with city officials expressing frustration over limited discretion.
City Attorney Anthony Bowman warned that denying the project could result in litigation from the state Attorney General's office.
The opposition: Residents voiced concerns about traffic safety, preservation of historic citrus groves, and the precedent of high-density development along Victoria Avenue.
Traffic emerged as the primary concern, with residents reporting speeding violations and congestion.
What's next: The project moves to final design and permitting phases, with construction timeline dependent on market conditions and final approvals.
The development will include private streets, a bioretention basin, and decorative walls along property boundaries.
Riverside Seeks Community Input on Fairmount Park's Future
Public workshop tonight will guide master plan for city's most beloved park.
The boathouse at Fairmount Park on the edge of Lake Evans. (Ken Crawford)
Residents can shape the future of Riverside's historic Fairmount Park at a public visioning workshop tonight. The "Fairmount Forward" planning session aims to balance preservation with progress for the 158-acre site.
Driving the news: The workshop, themed "Preserving What Matters, Planning What's Next," will guide future improvements to the park's amenities and infrastructure.
Participants will weigh in on areas like the playground, rose garden, amphitheater, and historic train area.
Why it matters: Fairmount Park, opened in 1911, is Riverside's most visited park and a designated historic site.
The park has hosted generations of family gatherings and community events, becoming woven into Riverside's identity.
The details: The workshop runs from 5-8 p.m. at the Armory at Fairmount Park, featuring hands-on activities and an interactive map exercise.
Community input will inform a comprehensive master plan for the park.
Go deeper: The Riverside Historical Society has released "The People's Playground: Riverside's Fairmount Park," an anthology offering historical perspectives on the park's community role.
What's next: Residents are urged to RSVP for the workshop or participate through an online survey if unable to attend.
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