Irvine Co. project under scrutiny

Sue Doyle

NEWPORT BEACH -- An Irvine Co. development project where six workers were

injured in a blast in March will be kept under scrutiny, the Orange

County Planning Commission decided Wednesday after residents complained

of noise and problems at the site.

The Irvine Co. was before the commission to request a development permit,

which was approved. But residents in the Seawind neighborhood first

testified that the area had become a “war zone” because of the explosives

used in construction.

The 200-acre site is a part of the Irvine Co.’s Newport Ridge luxury

housing development which will include 200 homes and 200 apartment units.

The Seawind residents complained that the blasts are not only dangerous

and noisy, but they sometimes begin as early as 6 a.m. -- which would be

a violation of county regulations.

The commission told the county planning staff to monitor the project and

report any problems or violations.

“It’s overwhelming that there’s a major screw-up there. It’s got to be

especially insulting with the in-your-face violations,” said Rick

Goacher, chairman of the commission.

In late March, six construction workers were hurt when they were struck

by rocks and debris from a blast gone awry.

Norman Witt, an Irvine Co. vice president, said the company is already

aware of six construction violations and will work with contractors to

meet county regulations. He said the contractors have set off 17 blasts

since, and should be finished by the end of the month.

“We are very anxious to clarify this with the contractors and that all

hours of restriction are followed,” added Carol Hoffman, another Irvine

Co. vice president.

However, the neighboring residents said the Irvine Co. has already gone

six months past its proposed blasting period.

The permit approved Wednesday is intended to solve some of the problems,

said Rich Elbaum, spokesperson for the Irvine Co., because it allows them

to leave a portion of a hill intact -- serving as a sound and visual

buffer. He said the company decided to apply for the permit after meeting

with neighbors.

Still, some residents said the construction has already disrupted their

quality of life and even damaged some of their property. Those who are

parents said they are worried about their children’s safety.

John Fransen, who lives in the area, described the blasts as a simulated

earthquake where “the house shakes, pictures are crooked and pipes

burst.”