5 Things You Need to Know About the Future of Aliso Viejo

Residents should expect to see "some exciting changes" in the city within the next 12 months, officials said Thursday.

The city of Aliso Viejo has begun updating its general plan, a process that takes place every eight to 10 years.

During the first public workshop, Albert Armijo, director of planning services, broke down the purpose of a general plan and explained some of the proposed changes.

The city's general plan, which was first adopted in 2004, works as a guide to the development and growth of Aliso Viejo. The city's future will be examined through 2035.

"We want to create an economically healthier community," Armijo said.

Armijo hopes to present the general plan update to the City Council on March 21.

Here are five things you should know about the proposed changes to the city:

Mixed use
The city wants to reevaluate land use in the "geographical heart of Aliso Viejo"—the Town Center/Commons area. (See photos above for a map of the area.)

Mixed use refers to the combination of retail, recreation, residential and other services in the same area. Town Center and the Vantis City Walk are examples of mixed use. As Aliso Viejo grows, city officials want to be sure the land is used to its fullest potential.

But Armjio said current businesses won't be asked to change how or where they currently operate.

Complete streets
A complete street keeps all users in mind and provides more space for walking and biking. It aims to create a safer way to travel the city by foot and pedal.

Creating a complete street involves restriping the road, possibly removing lanes and widening pedestrian walkways.

A pilot street has not yet been selected to receive this walker-friendly makeover, but the two most likely candidates are Aliso Viejo Parkway and Wood Canyon.

Armijo said Aliso Viejo Parkway was built to handle 65,000 trips every day. It currently sees 15,000. Armijo added that recently collected data from the project suggests the property value of the businesses near complete streets would increase.

Wood Canyon
Through the addition of a complete street (see above) or some other method, Armijo hopes to slow down drivers on Wood Canyon. At the curve near the land recently leased to Savannah's Organic Ranch, drivers often reach dangerous speeds, he said.

Shuttle System
As the city looks for ways to bring more business, recreation and enjoyment to residents, Armijo said the idea of sharing a shuttle with neighboring cities is being tossed around.

Officials hope to see locals leave their cars at home to explore the city and for neighboring cities to frequent Aliso Viejo's unique offerings.

Share Your Voice
The community's input is desired and can make a difference to the general plan. Armijo encouraged residents to visit the general plan update's website and provide feedback. The site will be updated throughout the approval process.