City engineer outlines plans for Hagen Place stairs and Aliso Beach parking lot upgrades

The Laguna Beach Planning Commission meeting on June 5, 2025, spotlighted significant infrastructure improvements, particularly focusing on the reconstruction of the Hagen Place Stairs and the reconfiguration of the Aliso Beach parking lot.

City Engineer Tom Perez confirmed that the Hagen Place Stairs will undergo a complete rebuild, which will also include lighting enhancements. However, questions regarding the future of the public art currently displayed on the stairs remain unanswered, as Perez indicated he would need to gather more information on that aspect.

The discussion then shifted to the Aliso Beach parking lot, where plans to demolish and reconfigure both the inland and coastal parking areas were outlined. Perez noted that a recent public meeting had already taken place to refine the design based on community feedback. He emphasized the urgency of the project, stating that delaying improvements could lead to further deterioration of the area.

Concerns were raised about potential overlaps with the proposed estuary project, which could impact the inland side of the parking lot. Perez assured attendees that the city is considering the timing and scope of both projects to avoid conflicts, highlighting that the parking lot work is primarily a maintenance effort with minor enhancements.

Additionally, the meeting touched on landscaping plans for the parking lot, with minor modifications to irrigation and grass areas proposed. The community's preference to retain existing grass near playgrounds was acknowledged, while discussions about relocating palm trees for better parking lot design were also noted.

The meeting concluded with a mention of the high priority given to public sidewalks in future projects, indicating a broader commitment to enhancing community infrastructure. The Planning Commission's proactive approach aims to address both immediate needs and long-term urban planning goals in Laguna Beach.