Gateway Landscape Project At Ortega & Del Obispo Gets A Reboot

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, CA — Landscaping worthy of the Mission San Juan Capistrano and the new Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano is coming to town, thanks to a new contract awarded by the city council this week.

Brightview Landscape Development was chosen for the redo of a city-owned southwest corner and a privately-owned northeast corner, "Del Taco," at the intersection, according to the proposal. It has been two years since any improvements have been made, according to Development Services Director Joel Rojas.

The work will begin in April and is predicted to be completed in June, just in time for summer visitors.

Look for stone masonry walls and other enhancements to the corners and the median. Olive trees will also be a part of the project proposed by Brightview.

The city will pay $687,634 for the work, and savings from the pavement rehabilitation on Meredith Canyon will go toward the gateway landscape, according to the city council session.

Brightview was the lowest bidder for the project that was announced in January. Four bids were received, according to Rojas.

"Three of four were consistent estimates, within 10 percent of each other," Rojas said. "Cost bids were higher than expected due to lighting, labor, and materials."