Hearing Set Today on Developer’s Request

The fractious debate over the future of the Porter Ranch development project is likely to erupt again today, as the Los Angeles Planning Commission takes up a request to ease restrictions on the builder.

The Porter Ranch Development Co. has requested that several requirements for the massive residential and commercial development be lifted, including those for pedestrian walkways and bridges, and a plan to widen an extension of Winnetka Avenue.

The reason, according to the developer, is that the slow economy has forced a reconsideration of ambitious plans to put a 2-million-square-foot regional office and shopping center on the site. Instead, the company wants to build a 660,000-square-foot retail center on a V-shaped plot of land in the foothills above the 118 Freeway, between Winnetka and Corbin avenues.

As currently envisioned by the developer, the center would have 50 stores, including a pet shop and restaurants.

Because the project will be so much smaller than originally planned, company spokesman Richard Mahan said, it is no longer necessary to include mitigations like wide streets and pedestrian bridges.

But Walter Prince, who for years has fought the Porter Ranch project, said the company does not have permission to change plans midstream. To switch from a carefully planned commercial center to an ordinary shopping area, he said, the developer must first obtain an amendment to the plan approved by the city and the community.

Prince said he fears the development will include warehouse-style discount stores like Wal-Mart, not the upscale development originally planned.

Today’s hearing will begin at 9:30 a.m. at the Sherman Oaks Woman’s Club, 4808 Kester Ave.