The Preserve at San Marcos
Environmental Constraints Analysis
– Santa Barbara
County
Envicom Corporation prepared the EIR for the Preserve at San Marcos Project. The applicant's ownership consists of approximately 377 acres located in an unincorporated portion of Santa Barbara County in the Santa Barbara Foothills. Of this amount, about 177 acres were proposed for the development of fifteen single-family residential homes, five multi-family, affordable housing units, and public recreational uses, including a park and a hiking and riding trail. The remaining 200 acres of property were proposed to be a designated remainder parcel, remaining in open space and subject to an option with a nonprofit land conservation organization. The proposed project site is a highly sensitive site within hillside area of Santa Barbara County. Environmental issues / resources on the site include geological constraints, biological resources, aesthetics, archaeological sensitivity, and open space. Development of the site has been a controversial issue for some time. In addition to preparing the EIR, Envicom Corporation prepared an Environmental Constraints Analysis to help guide the development and analysis of alternatives under CEQA. Envicom Corporation supported the County during intense public scrutiny and challenge throughout an extended public hearing process. The project was ultimately approved by the County Board of Supervisors.