STATE COSTAL CONSERVANCY (STATE OF CALIFORNIA)

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SANTIAGO PARK MAIN STREET CONSTRUCTION residents and visitors will be able to enjoy the interpretive signs that will highlight the critical role that the park plays in sustaining wildlife, even in its urban context. 3. Project benefits will be sustainable or resilient over the project lifespan. An important goal of the proposed project is to ensure site improvements are sustained and resilient long into the future. To accomplish this, the design is intentionally minimal, rustic, and suited to the local environment. Drought tolerant and native riparian plants are inherently resilient, require less maintenance, have low irrigation needs, and will ensure the park entrance remains attractive even in potential periods of drought. Re-establishment of vegetation will support local biodiversity and a healthy ecosystem by providing habitat and food for local wildlife including pollinators, birds, and beneficial insects. Additionally, reestablished vegetation will help prevent stormwater runoff by capturing water to infiltrate into the ground aquifer. The selection of materials including natural stone and wood typically have lower environmental impact compared to their synthetic counterparts, which will help reduce the potential carbon footprint of the project. The use of simple materials, along with drought tolerant landscaping will require less maintenance as compared to elaborate or high maintenance designs. This project aims to restore the site to its natural and rustic character, and sustain these improvements into the future. The project goals align with Santa Ana's General Plan Conservation Element of 2022 core value of sustainability. Santa Ana prioritizes land use decisions that benefit future generations, plan for the impacts of climate change, and incorporate sustainable design practices at all levels. Implementation Action 2.2 of the General Plan Conservation Element is to "identify opportunities to enhance the natural qualities of Santiago Creek to protect habitat and reintroduce native plants and animals." The restoration and preservation of the remaining stretches of wilderness habitat at Santiago Park is incredibly important to the City of Santa Ana and its residents. 4. Project delivers multiple benefits and significant positive impact. The project seizes the unique opportunity to provide urban greening along one of very few remaining natural streams in Orange County and creates an immersive escape where visitors will forget they are in a city. Coupled with recreation amenities such as archery and lawn bowling, the restoration plans of the trail and enhanced features will provide a safe and welcoming space for all local community members to recreate freely. The project provides access to high quality greenspace for a city with several disadvantaged communities as defined by the California Department of Water Resources. PROJECT FINANCING Coastal Conservancy Project Total Page 4 of 6 $2,807,000 $2,807,000