RIVERBANK PARK APPROVED BY PANEL.

Byline: Heather MacDonald Staff Writer

SANTA CLARITA - The city Planning Commission unanimously approved plans for a 25-acre passive park along the banks of the Santa Clara River in Canyon Country that will contain a man-made lake and a small amphitheater.

Although nearby residents voiced concerns Tuesday that the proposed park would increase traffic, noise and air pollution in the immediate neighborhood, city commissioners concurred in their view of River Park as an asset to the community.

``This will be a real gem in this part of the city,'' Chairman Rick Winsman said. ``Finally, the east side of town has something that the west side does not.''

River Park also will include an educational kiosk on river life, a tot lot, picnic areas, barbecue grills and a 3,000-foot bike trail, according to plans.

``I came to Santa Clarita looking for peace and quiet, and I thought I found it in Canyon Country when I bought my home,'' said Jennifer Killian. ``Now, you are inviting a lot of people, a lot of noise and a lot of congestion into my neighborhood.''

City officials dismissed those concerns.

``Because it is a passive park, it won't generate a lot of noise or traffic,'' said Tom Reilly, the city's park development administrator.

Planners envision small, nonelectronic performances - such as Shakespeare in the Park - being held at the amphitheater, Reilly said. Recreation programs such as baseball or soccer games will not be held at River Park, he added.

Commissioner Diane Trautman said she voted to approve the plans for the park after being assured by the city parks staff that neither the park nor the 8-foot-deep lake would harm endangered species that rely on the Santa Clara River, the last natural waterway in Southern California.

``However, we must be careful not to disturb this sensitive habitat during construction and development,'' Trautman said.

Although city officials estimated the park and trail would cost about $5.6 million to build, Santa Clarita has just $1.3 million on hand for the project, Reilly said.

``We're searching for grant funds to make up the difference,'' Reilly said.

Because of the massive state budget crisis, the city is facing a shortfall next year of at least $500,000. The Santa Clarita City Council is considering cutting services across the board, including road and parks maintenance, street cleaning and tree trimming, officials said.

Reilly said the park is expected to be built in two phases, beginning later this year with the bike trail, and that it may not open until 2005.

The cost to maintain the park could be at least $100,000 a year, he said.

Most of the rising costs the city faces stem from the need to maintain and operate the half-dozen new parks opened by the city over the last three years, according to Finance Director Steve Stark.