An expansive new open space preserve for Irvine residents will soon grow from the site of an industrial asphalt plant that has operated at the northern reaches of the city for 30 years.

The plant had caused increasing odor and air-quality complaints from residents, which led the city to file a nuisance lawsuit against its operator – All American Asphalt (AAA) – in 2020. The plans announced by the city on Feb. 28, 2023 would ensure AAA shuts down and hands the facility over to the city. City officials noted final steps remain to finalize the plan.

In its place, the city would create the new Gateway Preserve, restoring the land to its natural form, providing new recreational and environmental opportunities, and connecting residents directly to the 20,000 acres of open space north of Irvine.

The vision for the Gateway Preserve will be shaped by the city and community in the coming months. Early concepts include new trails, restored natural habitats, two new thematic parks and, perhaps, a small interpretive center. The main trail – called the Canyon Trail – would cross under the 241 toll road, creating the first uninterrupted connection to the 20,000-acre Northern Open Space Preserve.

The agreement requires that the city purchase the facility from All American Asphalt. To pay for the purchase, the city will master plan approximately 70 acres of land – donated by Irvine Company at no cost – for a potential city-planned residential neighborhood. The city would partner with a future homebuilder on a plan consistent with adjacent villages.

For more information, visit the City’s website on the Gateway Preserve.