On Wednesday, August 11, the City of Irvine received $14.5 million in state funding to complete the Jeffrey Open Space Trail, which will eventually connect the Santa Ana Mountains to the coast. Senator Dave Min, who represents the 37th District, presented the funds to Irvine city leaders at the Cypress Community Center.

In his presentation, Min said he was proud to know that open space preservation continues to be one of the core goals of his home town. 

“I’m thrilled this year’s state budget designates $14.5 million to fund the completion of Jeffrey Open Space Trail. Open space preservation is smart policy, which not only supports our sustainability efforts but also improves the quality of life for our residents and brings our community together,” he said. “Thank you to my hometown, the City of Irvine, for being a fantastic partner in this endeavor! I’m excited about the possibilities for hikers, bikers and other outdoors enthusiasts once the Jeffrey Trail is completed.”

 

Irvine Mayor Farrah Khan said the addition of more trails and open space further establishes Irvine’s values for sustainability, and expressed her gratitude for the leadership Senator Min continues to demonstrate at the local level.  

“Continuing to enhance our great City’s open space areas is something I couldn’t be more proud of accomplishing,” Khan said. “Our community thrives on being healthy and enjoying our master-planned community, and I’m so grateful for the partnership with Senator Min.”

The Jeffrey Open Space Trail Project will run through Min’s district, and connect a network of trails between the Santa Ana Mountains and the Cleveland National Forest. The project will extend from Barranca Parkway to Walnut Avenue, and over the Interstate-5 Freeway with the incorporation of a footbridge 

In terms of timeline, the City of Irvine estimates construction will begin next summer with final completion slated for 2023, according to the City of Irvine. 

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