I am writing to oppose the recently announced plans to construct an eight-story criminal justice center and courthouse in the heart of Santa Clarita. The project’s size and location are totally inappropriate.
Certainly, the existing courthouse in Santa Clarita needs to be replaced and expanded. However, that could most likely be accomplished on the current property, with the possibility of some minor expansion onto adjacent parcels.
As a suburban community to Los Angeles, Santa Clarita should not be expected to house a courthouse complex intended as a regional facility. If such a complex is needed, which apparently it is, it would better be located in the San Fernando Valley.
Should locations within the Santa Clarita Valley need to be taken into consideration for this project there are far better locations available that would not be in direct conflict with the existing residential, retail, educational and commercial properties that are well-established and thriving.
There are many such properties located adjacent to both the Interstate 5 and State Route 14 corridors that run through the valley. They would all offer convenient freeway access to people traveling from all parts of the county without the negative impact that would be imposed at the proposed location.
The location that comes immediately to mind would be adjacent to the Peter J. Pitchess Detention Center facility just off the I-5 at the northern end of the valley. There are sufficient options and space available there. Los Angeles County owns the property; and several years ago, they began doing fill-in work in preparation for future development. Demolition of existing structures should not be required. The intended purposes are related: the administration of justice and the fulfillment of sentencing. There should be some savings in time and transportation costs in those cases that involve prisoners already incarcerated at Pitchess. Finally, being located next to Pitchess may act as a subtle reminder and deterrent to defendants and potential criminals that there are serious consequences for their actions.
In closing, Santa Clarita does not need and Santa Claritans do not want this project to move forward. You should expect to see an outpouring of opposition and resistance from the community at large.
Jack Crawford
Saugus
