HomeMy WebLinkAboutSantiago Creek Strategic PlanSantiago Creek Commission
Draft Santiago Creek Strategic Plan
B r e n d o n M o e l l e r
C h a i r
S u s a n T i l l o u
C o m m i s s i o n e r
M i c h a e l K n i g h t
C o m m i s s i o n e r
D a v i d H i l l m a n
C o m m i s s i o n e r
P a m e l a G a l e r a
V i c e C h a i r
A d d i s o n A d a m s
C o m m i s s i o n e r
R o b e r t B a c a
C o m m i s s i o n e r
Santiago Creek Commissioners
Table of Contents
04
05
06
07
08
09
10
13
15
23
29
36
37
Executive Summary
Glossary of Terms
Land Acknowledgement
Background
A Brief History about the Santiago Creek
About the Santiago Creek Commission
Maps
Mission/Vision/Values
Segment One
Segment Two
Segment Three
Conclusion and Next Steps
Appendix - Additional Maps
4
Executive Summary
Purpose
Established by the Orange City Council on October 10, 2023, by Ordinance No. 13-23, the Santiago Creek Commission (SCC) protects, preserves, and enhances
the Santiago Creek—a vital public asset supporting flood protection, groundwater recharge, open space, active transportation, and recreation.
Commission Role
Advises the City Council on projects in and along Santiago Creek
Recommends improvements on public property
Supports open space preservation and responsible land use
Evaluates acquisition of private property when appropriate
Community-Based Planning
Seven (7) Orange residents serve on the Commission.
Recommendations are developed through public input and regular meetings.
Planning is organized by three Creek segments:
Segment 1: East Orange to Villa Park Road
Segment 2: Villa Park Road to the 55 Freeway
Segment 3: 55 Freeway to Hart Park
Summary of Proposal
This draft document attempts to consolidate prior planning efforts into a single framework that fulfills the intent of the Ordinance and advances a balanced strategy
to enhance the diverse needs across all segments of the Santiago Creek, improving public access and safety and supporting longer-term stewardship of all
waterways in or adjacent to the City of Orange.
Cross-creek themes
Recognition: Identify and highlight historic, cultural, and archaeological resources
Restoration: Conduct a comprehensive biological and cultural assessment, and based on this assessment, develop habitat restoration plans
Signage: Install clear informational, educational, and safety signage
Safety: Increase police patrols, lighting and overall security along the Creek
Segment-specific projects in report have rankings to guide implementation:
1 – Critical & Feasible: Immediate, high-impact improvements
2 – Beneficial: Valuable projects requiring additional funding
3 – No Funding: Projects without an identified funding source
5
Glossary of Terms
T h e f o l l o w i n g l i s t i n g i n c l u d e s t e r m s u t i l i z e d t h r o u g h o u t t h e S a n t i a g o C r e e k S t r a t e g i c P l a n .
F o r r e f e r e n c e , w h e n t h e s e t e r m s a r e m e n t i o n e d , t h e y m e a n t h e f o l l o w i n g :
Watershed:
Geographic area where all precipitation and surface
water drains to a common outlet, such as a river,
creek, bay, or ocean.
Greenbelt:
A linear park or open space established along a
natural corridor or urban area.
Groundwater Recharge:
The process by which surface water percolates
through soil into an underground water table.
Natural Vegetation:
Plants that are native and grow in a specific area
without direct human intervention.
Restoration:
The process of removing non-natural vegetation and
replacing them with vegetation natural to the area.
Creekbed:
The channel or depression in the ground where a
creek flows or has flowed.
Trailhead:
The beginning of a trail.
Spur Trail:
A short, often dead end trail typically leading to a
point of interest.
Pocket Park:
A park that covers less than one acre of land, often
in urban areas.
Creek Corridor:
The area around the Creek that is vital for the
Creek’s natural function and ecological health.
Class I Bikeway:
Separated right-of-way for the exclusive use of
bicycles.
Multipurpose Trail:
A trail or path intended for various types of
activities including, but not limited to, jogging,
cycling, and equestrian uses.
The Santiago Creek Commission respectfully acknowledges that proposed projects along Santiago Creek are located on the ancestral
homelands of the Acjachemen (Juaneño), Tongva (Gabrielino) and Guaromo peoples, who have stewarded this land for thousands of
years. We honor them, and all other peoples that may not be listed in this document, for their enduring relationship with the land, water,
and natural resources of this region and recognize their contributions to the cultural heritage of Southern California.
Santiago Creek is a vital natural corridor that has sustained life in this region for millennia. Flowing from the Santa Ana Mountains
through what is now the City of Orange, the Creek provided fresh water, food sources, and gathering places for Indigenous communities.
Even as urban development transformed the landscape, the Creek remains an important ecological and cultural resource, reminding us
of the deep connections between people and place.
We express our gratitude and respect to these communities, past and present, and commit to fostering partnerships that support cultural
preservation and environmental stewardship as we plan for the future of Santiago Creek.
6
L a n d A c k n o w l e d g e m e n t
7
T h e g o a l o f p r o t e c t i n g t h e S a n t i a g o C r e e k , a n d t h e d r e a m t o i m p l e m e n t t h e S a n t i a g o C r e e k G r e e n b e l t p l a n h a s b e e n a
g e n e r a t i o n a l e f f o r t s p a n n i n g d e c a d e s . T h i s e f f o r t c o n t i n u e s w i t h t h e h o p e o f l i n k i n g O r a n g e r e s i d e n t s a n d v i s i t o r s a l i k e f r o m
H a r t P a r k n e a r t h e O l d T o w n e H i s t o r i c D i s t r i c t a l l t h e w a y t o O r a n g e P a r k A c r e s , a t h r i v i n g e q u e s t r i a n c o m m u n i t y e s t a b l i s h e d i n
1 9 2 8 . P l a n n i n g d o c u m e n t s a n d d i s c u s s i o n a b o u t t h i s v i s i o n c a n b e t r a c e d b a c k t o 1 9 5 9 . T h e s e f o u n d a t i o n a l d o c u m e n t s h a v e
g u i d e d a n d h e l p e d p r o t e c t t h e S a n t i a g o C r e e k . C l i c k h e r e t o v i e w t h e f o u n d a t i o n a l d o c u m e n t s c u r r e n t l y a v a i l a b l e o n t h e
C i t y ’s w e b s i t e . (N o t e : T h i s p a g e o n t h e C i t y ’s w e b s i t e w i l l b e u p d a t e d a s m o r e o f t h e s e f o u n d a t i o n a l d o c u m e n t s a r e m a d e
e l e c t r o n i c a l l y a v a i l a b l e ).
T h e L o w e r S a n t i a g o C r e e k S p e c i f i c P l a n (1 9 7 7 )
O r a n g e G r e e n b e l t C o m m i t t e e (1 9 7 1 )
T h e S a n t i a g o C r e e k G r e e n b e l t P l a n (1 9 7 1 )
T h e S a n t i a g o C r e e k G r e e n b e l t I m p l e m e n t a t i o n P l a n (1 9 7 6 )
O r a n g e P a r k A c r e s P l a n (1 9 7 3 )
E a s t O r a n g e G e n e r a l P l a n (1 9 7 5 )
S a n t i a g o C r e e k V i s i o n P l a n (R e c e i v e d a n d f i l e d b y t h e O r a n g e C i t y C o u n c i l i n A p r i l 2 0 1 8 )
T h e s e p l a n s , c o u p l e d w i t h v a r i o u s e l e m e n t s o f t h e C i t y ’s G e n e r a l P l a n , i n c l u d i n g t h e L a n d U s e , C i r c u l a t i o n & M o b i l i t y , N a t u r a l
R e s o u r c e , P u b l i c S a f e t y , a n d C u l t u r a l R e s o u r c e s e l e m e n t s h a v e s e t t h e v i s i o n f o r t h e S a n t i a g o C r e e k . T h i s s t r a t e g i c p l a n
r e c o g n i z e s h o w u n i q u e a n d f o r t u n a t e O r a n g e i s t o h a v e s u c h a r a r e a n d u n i q u e n a t u r a l r e s p i t e a m i d a n u r b a n i z e d a r e a .
O v e r a l l , t h e s e p l a n s w e r e a l l p a r t o f p r e s e r v i n g t h e n a t u r a l o p e n s p a c e a n d r i p a r i a n e c o l o g y a l o n g t h e C r e e k w h i l e a l l o w i n g f o r
r e c r e a t i o n a l o p p o r t u n i t i e s w h e n p o s s i b l e . T h e c o m m u n i t y a n d C i t y s h a r e t h e v i s i o n o f a d a y w h e n r e s i d e n t s a n d v i s i t o r s c o u l d
r i d e b i k e s o r h o r s e s , w a l k , j o g , a n d e n j o y t h e n a t u r a l b e a u t y o f t h e S a n t i a g o C r e e k . T h i s l i v i n g d o c u m e n t i n t e n d s t o h e l p
i m p l e m e n t t h o s e i d e a l s .
Background
The Santiago Creek (Creek) is the largest tributary to the Santa Ana River. With headwaters in the Santa
Ana Mountains, the Creek flows northwestward through Santiago Canyon and then southwestward
though the City of Orange. The Creek is a historically significant site that provided water and resources to
the Acjachemen (Juaneño) and Tongva (Gabrielino) peoples, was chronicled in journals during the
Portola Expedition, and supported Orange County’s transformation from an agricultural to largely
urbanized region.
As the population in central Orange County grew in the early 20th Century, critical infrastructure projects
like the Santiago Dam (1931) intended to provide flood control, irrigation, and municipal water uses.
However, the mid-20th century ushered in significant changes for the City and County of Orange.
Suburban sprawl in the mid-20th century eventually eliminated nearly all agricultural uses and eventually
made way for the downstream Villa Park Dam (1963) which continues to operate in conjunction with the
Santiago Dam, holding back most of its flood releases to ensure the safety of downstream populations.
Similarly, following the Orange County Flood Control Act of 1927, much of the lower Creek was
channelized during the same time, solidifying central Orange County’s continued transformation to an
urbanized region, laying the foundation for continued growth in the City of Orange and surrounding areas.
In relying, in-part, on the Creek’s waters to support a heavily agricultural economy in the late 19th and
early 20th centuries, the Creek played a large role in shouldering Orange County’s continuous and
prosperous growth until it transitioned to the urbanized region seen today. Although the Creek’s role has
changed, its importance to the City of Orange and greater community remains. The Creek is a natural
respite amid a heavily urbanized area that requires ongoing support and care to ensure its benefits are
enjoyed and felt for generations to come.
Residents and community groups have long understood the Santiago Creek’s importance, and in
response, have committed significant time and resources to develop a series of comprehensive planning
documents (as seen on page five of this document). These documents set a vision for the Creek – one
where natural and historic resources are preserved while recreational amenities are developed, giving
our community and posterity the opportunity to experience this defining feature in the City of Orange. The
intent of this living document is to coalesce this vision into one record, effectively organizing
recommended projects for the Orange City Council’s consideration. 8
A B r i e f H i s t o r y a b o u t t h e S a n t i a g o C r e e k
In the spirit of protecting the Santiago Creek, on October 10, 2023, the Orange City Council adopted Ordinance No. 13-23 creating the Santiago
Creek Commission (SCC). The Santiago Creek (Creek) provides flood protection, groundwater recharge, active transportation, and other recreational
opportunities to the community. Pursuant to Ordinance No. 13-23, seven Orange residents have been appointed to the SCC with the exclusive task of
advising and making recommendations to the Orange City Council on:
The implementation of public projects in and along the Santiago Creek area.
The implementation of Santiago Creek plans for the Santiago Creek area regarding public property.
The preservation and enhancement of public open space within the Santiago Creek area.
The acquisition of private property if, or when, it becomes available.
Since their appointments, SCC members have diligently worked with the public to separate the Santiago Creek into three segments for substantive
discussions. Vision statements and recommended projects detailed in this document have all been reviewed by the public and SCC during regular
SCC meetings. Overall, this document intends to achieve two functions. First, to coalesce the vision of several planning documents into one record;
and two, to implement Ordinance No. 13-23's legislative intent via a holistic and comprehensive set of recommendations.
Recognizing the Creek’s surroundings and circumstances change significantly from east to west Orange, the recommendations are organized by
Creek segments which include:
Segment One: East Orange to Villa Park Road.
Segment Two: Villa Park Road to the 55 Freeway.
Segment Three: 55 Freeway to Hart Park.
Additionally, each project includes a recommendation score of 1-3 with (1) representing critical and feasible projects that would immediately improve
and promote Santiago Creek; (2) representing projects that would improve and promote Santiago Creek but would require additional funding; and (3)
representing projects that would improve and promote Santiago Creek, but funding is not readily available.
While the scope and purpose of the recommendations may vary, the general intent of all the recommendations is to preserve and enhance this critical
asset while creating more recreational opportunities for all to enjoy.
9
About the Santiago Creek Commission
10
T h e S a n t a A n a R i v e r Wa t e r s h e d
11
T h e S a n t i a g o C r e e k Wa t e r s h e d
12
T h e S a n t i a g o C r e e k i n t h e C i t y o f O r a n g e
County of
Orange
Holy Sepulcher
Advise the Orange City Council to preserve the historical,
ecological, and safety of the Creek while implementing
recreational amenities.
M i s s i o n
Preserve this natural resource for its history, archeological and
ecological significance, and scenic beauty while incorporating
recreational opportunities.
V i s i o n
Preservation
Maintaining the Santiago Creek’s natural beauty as well as its
archeological and ecological significance.
Restoration
Replacing non-native plant species, improve wildlife habitat, and
remedy any dilapidated public areas.
Recreation
Identifying opportunities for recreational amenities appropriate
for each segment.
Safety
Through environmental design and collaboration, foster a safe
environment along the Santiago Creek.
V a l u e s
13
M i s s i o n V a l u e sVision
S e g m e n t A c t i o n P l a n
14
The Santiago Creek Commission's mission, vision, and values
set the foundation of the Segment Action Plan.
Segment one extends from the East Orange near Holy Sepulcher Cemetery to Villa Park
Road. This segment comprises entirely of east Orange and contains unique features making
Segment One stand out as an asset for all of Orange County. As the Creek flows through Villa
Park Dam, it meanders into Santiago Oaks Regional Park and flows west between Orange
Park Acres and Mabury Ranch. Much of the Creek within this segment remains wild with a
riparian habitat abundant with history and wildlife.
The focus of the projects detailed within Segment One is to preserve this natural resource for
its history, archeological and ecological significance, and scenic beauty while tactfully
incorporating low impact recreational amenities that create connectivity and access,
accentuating the Santiago Creek’s value to the community.
15
Vision Statement for Segment One:
East Orange to Villa Park Road
Vision Statement for Segment One:
East Orange to Villa Park Road
Segment One: East Orange to Villa Park Park Road
16
1 .2 , 1.3
1.2
1 .6
1.61.8
1 .9
1.13
Cannon Street
Holy Sepulcher
Villa Park Dam
1 .6
Projec t N um ber Pot ential
Locat ion
Project
Number
Recommended
Project and
(Priority)
Project Description Possible
Collaborations
Funding
Strategy
Community
Benefits
1.1
Santiago Creek
Habitat Restoration
(2)
Conduct a comprehensive biological
and cultural assessment, and based on
this assessment, develop a habitat
restoration plan to guide landscape
alteration(s) such as the removal or
introduction of plants. Also, recommend
prohibiting the use of pesticides,
herbicides, or mechanized equipment
that negativley impact the Santiago
Creek Area
Santiago Creek
Greenway Alliance,
Neighbors, Orange
Community Groups,
and Irvine Ranch
Conservancy
Private Donations,
Grants, and
Volunteers
Ecological
Significance
Scenic
Opportunities
Recreational
Opportunities
1.2
Branding and Trail
Signage at Cannon
Street parking lot
and the South Side
of Villa Park Road
at Hewes Street (2)
Include signage to increase visibility
and public engagement. These signs
can direct to Santiago Oaks Regional
Park, Grijalva Park, Yorba Park, Hart
Park, and the OC Loop. Additionally,
install signage that includes information
like the Orange 24/7 application, speed
limits, trail etiquette, habitat education,
and Orange Police Department contact
information
Community Services
Department and
County of Orange
General Fund Recreational
Opportunities
17
S e g m e n t O n e : E a s t O r a n g e t o V i l l a P a r k R o a d
Project
Number
Recommended
Project and
(Priority)
Project Description Possible
Collaborations
Funding
Strategy
Community
Benefits
1.3
Ensure the cleanliness
and ongoing safety of
the Santiago Creek (1)
Improve the creek corridor through
trash pick-up, regular trail
maintenance, education, crime
prevention, enforcement, and
environmental design (i.e., improved
lighting), particularly in more secluded
areas (i.e., Cannon Street trail parking
lot)
Orange Community
Emergency Response
Team, Santiago Creek
Greenway Alliance,
The HEART Team
Ongoing City
Operations and
Volunteers
Ecological
Significance
Scenic
Opportunities
Recreational
Opportunities
1.4
Identify and preserve
appropriate sites as
protected natural
locations (2)
Work with state and county agencies
to create a protected habitat sector
due to the wild life and plant life (or
organisms) that preside in Segment 1.
Where appropriate, restrict public
access from entering these protected
sites
County of Orange,
Chapman University,
OC Parks,
Irvine Ranch
Conservancy, and
Friends of Harbors,
Beaches, and Parks
Grants
Ecological
Significance
Scenic
Opportunities
1.5
Evaluate possible
opportunities to create
trails that would
connect Segment 1 to
OPA trails without
relying on non-City
property (3)
Develop a plan to create a merge
point of trails that belong to the City
giving hikers and horse riders an
unpaved route
Orange Public Works
and Community
Services Departments,
OPA, California State
Horsemen Association,
California State Parks,
and OC Parks
Grants Recreational
Opportunities
18
S e g m e n t O n e : E a s t O r a n g e t o V i l l a P a r k R o a d
Project
Number
Recommended
Project and
(Priority)
Project Description Possible
Collaborations
Funding
Strategy
Community
Benefits
1.6
Preserve,
acknowledge, and
provide educational
opportunities for
historic sites along
the Santiago Creek
(2)
Celebrate the dedicated groups and
members of the Orange community that
have kept the Creek thriving while making
concerted efforts to preserve and mark
historical locations along this segment
including, but not limited to, Boy Scouts
Camp Jotham Bixby, Old County Park
Road, submerged dam at Santiago Oaks
Regional Park, heritage trees,and dropped
vehicles that were used for flood overflow
as well as the bridge that was detonated
Orange Public Library and
History Center, County of
Orange, OC Archivist,
local historians, Irvine Ranch
Conservancy, and residents
Grants
Historical/
Archeological
Significance
1.7
Protect and
document
archeological items
already known or
identified within this
Segment (1)
Document known items visible or known by
local historians, residents, or noted on EIRs.
Protect these items and/or remove them
from the site then relocate to the Orange
Public Library History Center to prevent
flood damage, theft, or vandalism. Keep
these items within the City’s archives
County of Orange, AIA
Orange County Society,
Pacific Coast Archeological
Society, OC Parks, American
Museum of Natural History,
Chapman University,
Pat Martz, and the
Cooper Center
Private
Donations
and
Volunteers
Historical/
Archeological
Significance
S e g m e n t O n e : E a s t O r a n g e t o V i l l a P a r k R o a d
19
Project
Number
Recommended
Project and
(Priority)
Project Description Possible
Collaborations
Funding
Strategy
Community
Benefits
1.8 Santiago Creek Gap
Trail Closure (2)
Support projects that promote the
General Plan Circulation Element
while encouraging the current City
project to close the last 1.5-mile gap
in the Santiago Creek Trail. Should
this be completed, consider park
amenities to accommodate greater
public uses (e.g., restroom and/or
trashcans) near Villa Park Road and
the Cannon Street parking lot
County of Orange,
Orange Public Works
Department, Mabury
Ranch Community, and
OPA Trail Committee
Grants
Scenic
Opportunities
Recreational
Opportunities
1.9
Biological survey and
cultural resource
assessment for the
Hurwitz site (2)
A biological and cultural resource
assessment to develop a baseline of
endangered species on site and
needed habitat restoration at the 14-
acre Hurwitz site. The surveys could
run from March to June with the
analysis and report in October.
Subsequent to this analysis, a habitat
restoration plan can be determined
East Orange
Community, Chapman
University, Irvine Ranch
Conservancy, and
Santa Ana Watershed
Association
Grants and
Volunteers
Ecological
Significance
20
S e g m e n t O n e : E a s t O r a n g e t o V i l l a P a r k R o a d
Project
Number
Recommended
Project and
(Priority)
Project Description Possible
Collaborations
Funding
Strategy
Community
Benefits
1.10
Bike bridge and paths
made of natural
looking materials
matching surrounding
Segment 1 areas (3)
Build bridges and
pathways, as needed, with
natural looking materials.
California Park Services,
County of Orange, and
Orange Public Works
and Community Services
Departments
Grants
Scenic Opportunities
Recreational
Opportunities
1.11
Encourage the
Community of Orange
Loop Trail (COLT)
Chapman Avenue
Bridge near Orange
Park Boulevard (3)
This is a 10.5 mile loop
trail that connects four
regional parks within
Orange. It is envisioned a
bridge will extend over
Chapman Avenue, and
help connect visitors to the
Santiago Creek
Orange Public Works
and Community Services
Departments, Mabury
Ranch Community,
County of Orange, and
Orange Park Acres.
Grants
Ecological Significance
Scenic Opportunities
Recreational
Opportunities
21
S e g m e n t O n e : E a s t O r a n g e t o V i l l a P a r k R o a d
Project
Number
Recommended
Project and
(Priority)
Project Description Possible
Collaborations
Funding
Strategy
Community
Benefits
1.12
General Portola and
Fray Juan Crespi
digital history
showcasing travels
through and stay
along the Santiago
Creek (1).
Develop another section
on the City website next to
the Orange Barrio site to
showcase another
important element in
Mexican & Spanish history
within Orange
Orange Public Library
and History Center,
Orange County Historical
Society, Orange County
Diocese, local historians,
National Museum of the
American Latino, Bowers
Museum (California
Legacies Virtual
Highlight), OPA,
California State
Horsemen Association,
California State Parks,
and OC Parks
Grants and Ongoing
City Operations
Historical/ Archeological
Significance
1.13
Highlight Sully - Miller
Construction
Company’s
contributions to
Southern California
(1)
Digital documentation of
Sully-Miller as a company
that provided jobs and
careers for the El Modena
and Cypress Street barrio
communities during times
of segregation
Orange Barrio Historical
Society and Orange
Community Groups.
Private Donations,
Volunteers, and
Grants
Historical/ Archeological
Significance
22
S e g m e n t O n e : E a s t O r a n g e t o V i l l a P a r k R o a d
Segment Two extends from Villa Park Road near the Santiago Creek Recharge Basin to the 55
Freeway. This segment comprises a small portion of east Orange but quickly pivots to central
Orange’s more urbanized areas. Segment Two transitions from a natural creek bed to a concrete
channel that begins at East Collins Avenue, and shifts back to a wider and more natural setting
near Grijalva Park which continues to the 55 Freeway.
Segment Two is the center and hub of the Santiago Creek Trail. The projects recommended for this
Segment promote this highly traveled area while bolstering its recreational amenities through an
eclectic series of projects that when combined, will thoroughly improve Segment 2. Projects within
Segment 2 celebrate and educate the public about Segment 2’s historical significance while
fostering an active, multi-modal, yet safe recreational environment surrounded by natural
vegetation. Finally, the projects recommended for Segment 2 recognize this is a highly accessible
trail that should be publicized to attract Orange and non-Orange residents alike, underscoring
collective efforts to make the Creek an inclusive asset for all to enjoy.
23
Vision Statement for Segment Two:
Villa Park Road to the 55 Freeway
Vision Statement for Segment Two:
Villa Park Road to the 55 Freeway
Your paragraph text
Vi lla Pa rk Road
Yorba Park
24
S e g m e n t Tw o : Vi l l a P a r k R o a d t o t h e 5 5 F r e e w a y
Villa Pa rk Road
Yo rb a Park
Cou nt y
2.2
2 .2
2 .2
2.2, 2 .3 , 2 .4 , 2 .5 , 2.9
2.4
East Walnut Avenue
East Palm Avenue
Prospect Street
East Colli ns Avenue
East Bond Avenue
Hewes
St
reet
Chapman Avenue
2.5
2.5
East Wal nut Aven ue
2.6,2.9
Grijalva Park
2 .7
2.2, 2.4
2 .1 , 2.2
2.8
2.10
2 .1 1
2 .4
Proj ect N u m be r Poten tial
Lo c ation
Co u nty
Vi l l a Park
Cou nt y
Project
Number
Recommended
Project and
(Priority)
Project Description Possible
Collaborations
Funding
Strategy
Community
Benefits
2.1 Santiago Creek
Habitat Restoration (2)
Conduct a comprehensive
biological and cultural assessment,
and based on this assessment,
develop a habitat restoration plan to
guide landscape alteration(s) such
as the removal or introduction of
plants. Also, recommend prohibiting
the use of pesticides, herbicides, or
mechanized equipment that
negativley impact the Santiago
Creek Area
Santiago Creek
Greenway Alliance,
Orange Community,
and Irvine Ranch
Conservancy
Private
Donations,
Grants,
Volunteers
Ecological
Significance
Scenic Opportunities
Recreational
Opportunities
2.2
Branding and Trail
Signage at Hewes &
Bond Street, East
Collins & Prospect
Street, East Collins &
Wanda Road, East
Walnut Avenue, E.
Palm Avenue, and
South Chapman
Avenue at the 55
Freeway near Yorba
Street (2)
Include signage to increase visibility
and public engagement. These
signs can direct to Santiago Oaks
Regional Park, Grijalva Park, Yorba
Park, Hart Park, and the OC Loop.
Additionally, install signage that
includes information like the Orange
24/7 application, speed limits, trail
etiquette, habitat education, and
Orange Police Department contact
information
County of Orange and
Orange Community
Services Department
Private
Donations and
General Fund
Recreational
Opportunities
25
S e g m e n t T w o : V i l l a P a r k R o a d t o t h e 5 5 F r e e w a y
Project
Number
Recommended
Project and (Priority)Project Description Possible
Collaborations
Funding
Strategy
Community
Benefits
2.3
Ensure the cleanliness and
ongoing safety of the
Santiago Creek (1)
Improve the creek corridor through trash pick-up,
regular trail maintenance, education, crime
prevention, enforcement, and environmental design
(i.e., improved lighting), particularly in more
secluded areas (i.e., near the 55 Freeway and
Chapman Avenue)
Orange CERT,
Santiago Creek
Greenway Alliance,
The HEART Team
Ongoing
City
Operations
and
Volunteers
Ecological
Significance
Scenic
Opportunities
Recreational
Opportunities
2.4
Preserve, acknowledge, and
provide educational
opportunities for historic sites
along the Santiago Creek (2)
Install interpretive signage and digital information
celebrating and acknowledging community groups
and historical sites along this Segment including the
Portola expedition, the site of the first Orange
orchard, Hoyt House, Yorba Park plaque
replacement, heritage trees, and opportunities for
the Historic El Camino Real bells which highlight the
California Mission Trail (near Yorba and Grijalva
Parks)
Orange Public Library
and History Center,
County of Orange,
OC Archivist,
local historians, Irvine
Ranch Conservancy,
and residents
Grants and
Private
Donations
Historical/
Archeological
Significance
2.5 Implement a trail node next
to the Santiago Creek (2)
Evaluate and install amenities such as educational
signs, benches, dog bag dispensers, trashcans, and
native landscape overlooking the Santiago Creek in
available areas (i.e., City-owned) from Yorba Park to
Villa Park Road (e.g., Yorba Park Bridge, East Bond
& Prospect Streets)
Community Foundation
Grants and
Private
Dontations
Recreational
Opportunities
Scenic
Opportunities
26
S e g m e n t T w o : V i l l a P a r k R o a d t o t h e 5 5 F r e e w a y
Project
Number
Recommended
Project and
(Priority)
Project Description Possible
Collaborations
Funding
Strategy
Community
Benefits
2.6
Where available,
implement riding
and hiking trails on
the south side of the
Creek between
Yorba and Grijalva
Parks (3)
This multipurpose trail will complement the
Class I bike path on the north side of the
Creek and give more access to the creek
corridor and help reduce crime and
dangerous conflicts
Orange Public Works
and Community
Services Departments,
County of Orange, and
Equestrian Community
Grants and
Private
Donations
Scenic
Opportunities
Recreational
Opportunities
2.7
Implement trailhead
and new pocket park
at East Walnut
Avenue (2)
Evaluate potential amenities such as
drinking fountain, benches, playground,
shade, and native landscape at the
intersection of the Wanda trail extension
and Walnut Avenue
Community Foundation
and Surrounding
Neighbors
Grants
Ecological
Significance
Scenic
Opportunities
Recreational
Opportunities
2.8
Improvements on
the Wanda trail
extension as well as
a pocket park (2)
Evaluate amenities such as monument
signage, drinking fountains, benches,
signage, and native landscape at the
Wanda trail extension.
Orange Public Works
and Community
Services Departments,
Community
Foundation, and
Santiago Creek
Greenway Alliance
Private
Donations and
Grants
Ecological
Significance
Scenic
Opportunities
Recreational
Opportunities
27
S e g m e n t T w o : V i l l a P a r k R o a d t o t h e 5 5 F r e e w a y
Project
Number
Recommended
Project and
(Priority)
Project Description Possible
Collaborations
Funding
Strategy
Community
Benefits
2.9
E-bike & BMX bike
opportunities and other
trail uses near Yorba and
Grijalva Parks (3)
Separate e-bikes and recreational
bikes from dog walkers and
equestrian to avoid dangerous
conflicts
Orange Public Works
and Community
Services Departments,
Surrounding Neighbors
and Community
Groups
Grants and
Private
Donations
Recreational
Opportunities
2.10
If approved by the
appropriate government
agencies, perform
Creekbed restoration
southwest of recharge
basin (3)
Subject to approval, recommend to
remove concrete lining and restore
natural Creekbed to beautify the
Creek and improve ecology.
County of Orange Grants and
Volunteers
Ecological
Significance
Scenic
Opportunities
2.11
Evaluate opportunities for
a community garden near
Grijalva Park and East
Walnut Avenue (2)
With property owner consent, work
with non-profit groups and
neighborhoods to develop a
community garden that includes an
education and composting component
Surrounding Neighbors
and Non-Profit Groups
Grants and
Private
Donations
Recreational
Opportunities
28
S e g m e n t T w o : V i l l a P a r k R o a d t o t h e 5 5 F r e e w a y
Segment Three extends from the 55 Freeway to Hart Park and the 22 Freeway. This segment comprises central
and Old Towne Orange as it meanders to the neighboring City of Santa Ana. Segment Three’s features include a
mix of concrete channel and natural settings with a significant portion of this Segment adjacent to City of Orange
(City) owned property.
Segment Three projects recognize the value of having City-owned property near the Creek, particularly as this
highly traveled Segment flows near the City’s crown jewel – the Old Towne Orange Plaza. In the spirit of Old
Towne, projects within this Segment celebrate and merge Orange’s history and vision for the Creek’s future.
Segment Three focuses on fostering a safe recreational environment encompassed with natural vegetation,
ancient sycamore trees, wildlife habitats, and seasonal water flows while offering educational opportunities and
historical markers so Orange and non-Orange residents alike may learn about what makes Orange unique.
Located adjacent to Santa Ana, Segment 3 is a point of convergence that seeks to connect trail users to a vast
recreational trail system both east (e.g., Santiago Oaks Regional Park) and west (e.g., Santa Ana River Trail)
while delivering a bold approach that makes Orange immediately stand out and welcome all Creek visitors to the
City of Orange.
29
Vision Statement for Segment Three:
55 Freeway to Hart Park
Vision Statement for Segment Three:
55 Freeway to Hart Park
S e g m e n t T h r e e : 5 5 F r e e w a y t o H a r t P a r k
30
3.2, 3.3, 3.8
3.2
3.2
3 .2
3.2
3.4
3 .4
3.4
3.5, 3.9, 3.11
3 .7
3 .1 1
P ro je ct Numb er Po te n tia l
L oc ati o n
3.6
Project
Number
Recommended
Project and
(Priority)
Project Description
Possible
Collaboration
s
Funding
Strategy
Community
Benefits
3.1
Santiago Creek
Habitat Restoration
(2)
Conduct a comprehensive biological
and cultural assessment, and based
on this assessment, develop a
habitat restoration plan to guide
landscape alteration(s) such as the
removal or introduction of plants.
Also, recommend prohibiting the
use of pesticides, herbicides, or
mechanized equipment that
negativley impact the Santiago
Creek Area
Santiago Creek
Greenway
Alliance, Orange
Community, and
Irvine Ranch
Conservancy
Private Donations,
Grants, and
Volunteers
Ecological
Significance
Scenic Opportunities
Recreational
Opportunities
3.2
Branding and Trail
Signage at the 22
Freeway, South
Glassell Street, South
Shaffer Street, South
Cambridge Street,
and South Tustin
Street (2)
Include signage to increase visibility
and public engagement. These
signs can direct to Santiago Oaks
Regional Park, Grijalva Park, Yorba
Park, Hart Park, and the OC Loop.
Additionally, install signage that
includes information like the Orange
24/7 application, bike speed limits,
trail etiquette, habitat education, and
Orange Police Department contact
information
County of Orange
and Orange
Community
Services
Department
General Fund Recreational
Opportunities
31
S e g m e n t T h r e e : 5 5 F r e e w a y t o H a r t P a r k
Project
Number
Recommended
Project and
(Priority)
Project Description Possible
Collaborations
Funding
Strategy
Community
Benefits
3.3
Ensure the
cleanliness and
ongoing safety of the
Santiago Creek (1)
Improve the creek corridor
through trash pick-up, regular
trail maintenance, education,
crime prevention, enforcement,
and environmental design (i.e.,
improved lighting), particularly
in more secluded areas (e.g.,
improved lighting near the 22
Freeway overpass)
Orange Community
Emergency Response
Team, Santiago Creek
Greenway Alliance, The
HEART Team
Ongoing City
Operations and
Grants
Ecological
Significance
Scenic
Opportunities
Recreational
Opportunities
3.4 Increase Accessibility
to the Creek (3)
With property owner consent,
evaluate new Santiago Creek
trail access to surrounding
neighborhoods including
Santiago Creekside Estates
(existing gate locked), Arroyo
Casa Apartments (existing gate
locked), and East Palmyra
Avenue between the 55
Freeway and Tustin Street at
2022 East Palmyra Avenue
Orange Public Works
and Community
Services Departments,
County of Orange, and
Surrounding Neighbors
Ongoing City
Operations
Recreational
Opportunities
32
S e g m e n t T h r e e : 5 5 F r e e w a y t o H a r t P a r k
Project
Number
Recommended
Project and
(Priority)
Project Description Possible
Collaborations
Funding
Strategy
Community
Benefits
3.5 Active Recreation for
young families (2)
Evaluate areas and uses along this
segment between South Shaffer and
Tustin Streets that may be used for
active recreation purposes that are
specifically geared for young families
and children
Orange Community
Services
Department,
Community
Foundation, and
Surrounding
Neighbors
Private
Donations and
Grants
Recreational
Opportunities
3.6 Historic Markers and
Preservation (2)
Install interpretive signage and digital
information to highlight the history of
the Santiago Creek in this segment,
including the historic China Town area,
Native American history, and heritage
trees.
Orange Public
Library and History
Center, County of
Orange, Historic
Preservation
Groups, and Irvine
Ranch Conservancy
Grants and
Private
Donations
Historic/Archeological
Significance
3.7
Implement a
recreational trail on
the north side of the
Creek between
Yorba and Hart Parks
(2)
This multipurpose trail will complement
the Class I bike path on the north side
of the Creek and give more access to
the Creek corridor. Recommend that
this separate any potentially
dangerous conflicts (e.g., dog walkers
vs. bicycles or e-bikes)
Orange Public
Works and
Community Services
Departments,
County of Orange,
and Surrounding
Neighbors
Grants
Scenic
Opportunities
Recreational
Opportunities
33
S e g m e n t T h r e e : 5 5 F r e e w a y t o H a r t P a r k
Project
Number
Recommended
Project and
(Priority)
Project Description Possible
Collaborations
Funding
Strategy
Community
Benefits
3.8
Improve the creek
corridor between
Glassell Street and
the 22 Freeway (2)
Install amenities such as drinking
fountain, benches, playground, shade,
and native landscape
Orange Community
Services
Department,
Santiago Creek
Greenway Alliance,
and Volunteers
Private Donations
and Grants
Ecological
Significance
Scenic
Opportunities
Recreational
Opportunities
3.9
Evaluate opportunities
for community
gardens (2)
Identify public parcels parcels between
South Shaffer and Tustin Streets that
may be utilized for a community garden
Orange Community
Groups and Non-
Profit Organizations
Private Donations
and Grants
Recreational
Opportunities
34
S e g m e n t T h r e e : 5 5 F r e e w a y t o H a r t P a r k
Project
Number
Recommended
Project and
(Priority)
Project Description Possible
Collaborations
Funding
Strategy
Community
Benefits
3.10
Regional Water
Network Maps along
the Santiago Creek
(2)
Identify areas along this segment where
maps and exhibits of the Santiago
Creek water network may be displayed.
County of Orange,
Orange County
Water District, and
Orange Community
Services Department
Grants and
Private Donations
Ecological
Significance
Recreational
Opportunities
3.11
Research and
develop opportunities
for pocket parks and
trailheads in the areas
near South Shaffer,
South Cambridge,
and South Tustin
Streets (2)
Evaluate and where appropriate, install
amenities such as e, dog bag
dispensers, drinking fountains,
benches, playground, shade, and native
landscape on public parcels between
South Shaffer and Tustin Streets
Orange Community
Services
Department,
Community
Foundation, and
Surrounding
Neighbors
Grants
Ecological
Significance
Scenic
Opportunities
Recreational
Opportunities
35
S e g m e n t T h r e e : 5 5 F r e e w a y t o H a r t P a r k
36
C o n c l u s i o n a n d N e x t S t e p s
P u r s u a n t t o O r d i n a n c e N o . 1 3 -2 3 , t h e S a n t i a g o C r e e k C o m m i s s i o n r e s p e c t f u l l y s u b m i t s t h e s e p r o j e c t s f o r t h e
O r a n g e C i t y C o u n c i l ’s c o n s i d e r a t i o n . T h e r e c o m m e n d a t i o n s d e t a i l e d i n t h i s d o c u m e n t r e f l e c t t h e d u t i e s a n d t a s k s
t h e O r a n g e C i t y C o u n c i l h a v e c h a r g e d t h e S a n t i a g o C r e e k C o m m i s s i o n w i t h a d m i n i s t e r i n g .
D e p e n d e n t o n C i t y C o u n c i l d i r e c t i o n , t h e S a n t i a g o C r e e k C o m m i s s i o n c a n c o l l a b o r a t e w i t h To w n s e n d P u b l i c
A ff a i r s , a n d i d e n t i f y p o t e n t i a l g r a n t o p p o r t u n i t i e s t o h e l p p u t t h e s e r e c o m m e n d a t i o n s i n t o a c t i o n . A d d i t i o n a l l y, t h e
S a n t i a g o C r e e k C o m m i s s i o n r e c o m m e n d s t h a t s t a ff d e v e l o p a t r a i l n a m i n g p r o g r a m t o s u p p l e m e n t o n g o i n g
m a i n t e n a n c e a n d c l e a n i n g e ff o r t s . M o r e o v e r, i f d i r e c t e d b y t h e C i t y C o u n c i l , t h e S a n t i a g o C r e e k C o m m i s s i o n c a n
e n g a g e c o m m u n i t y g r o u p s a n d i n v i t e t h e m t o f u t u r e m e e t i n g s . T h i s w i l l p r o m p t f u r t h e r d i s c u s s i o n a b o u t t h e p r o j e c t s
t h a t h a v e b e e n p r e s e n t e d t o t h e C i t y C o u n c i l f o r c o n s i d e r a t i o n w h i l e g i v i n g t h e c o m m u n i t y t h e o p p o r t u n i t y t o
s t r a t e g i z e h o w t o b e s t m a i n t a i n a n d m a n a g e t h e S a n t i a g o C r e e k t h r o u g h e d u c a t i o n c a m p a i g n s a n d v o l u n t e e r i s m .
L a s t l y, t h e S a n t i a g o C r e e k C o m m i s s i o n r e c o g n i z e s t h e C r e e k i s o n e c o m p o n e n t o f a l a r g e r r e g i o n a l n e t w o r k , a n d
w i l l c o n t i n u e t o m o n i t o r s i g n i f i c a n t p r o j e c t s u n d e r t a k e n b y o t h e r e n t i t i e s i n c l u d i n g :
U S A r m y C o r p s o f E n g i n e e r s (C l i c k t o v i e w w e b p a g e )
C a l i f o r n i a D e p a r t m e n t o f Tr a n s p o r t a t i o n (C l i c k t o v i e w w e b p a g e )
O r a n g e C o u n t y P u b l i c Wo r k s (C l i c k t o v i e w w e b p a g e )
37
A p p e n d i x : A d d i t i o n a l M a p s
“Hotuuknga”
Por tola’s
Camp
38
H i s t o r i c a l M a p o f t h e S a n t i a g o C r e e k
Source: Los Angeles Public Library - Kirkman-Harriman pictorial and historical map of Los Angeles County: 1860 A.D.-1937 A.D.
O r a n g e C o u n t y G r o u n d w a t e r
39
Your paragraph text
Vi lla Pa rk Road
Yorba Park
18
O r a n g e C o u n t y Tr a n s p o r t a t i o n A u t h o r i t y B i k e w a y s M a p
V illa Pa rk Ro a d
County
1440
Your paragraph text
Vi lla Pa rk Road
Yorba Park
C i t y o f O r a n g e Tr a i l s M a p
Ha rt Park
Villa Pa rk Dam
Gr ij alva Park
41