* EDITOR'S NOTE: Here is a look at stories that we think will continue
to make headlines in 2002, along with an actual headline likely to appear
in the Daily Pilot.
Newport piers get a second wind
By mid-April, the Newport and Balboa piers should be almost like new
after having undergone the most drastic renovations in their 60-year life
spans. The $2.7-million rehabilitation project includes new concrete
surfaces, signs, gates and handrails. Electricity, gas, water and phone
lines now visible running down the piers will be concealed. Structural
work, including the concrete resurfacing, will make the piers stronger,
increase the amount of weight they can carry and make them better able to
endure a big storm. The work is expected to add about 20 years to the
life of the piers. But like most major construction work, pier
refurbishment hasn't been good news for everyone. Newport Pier Seafood
and Bar on the Newport Pier and Ruby's on the Balboa Pier both have had
to close for about two months while the most extensive work has required
the piers to close. The Balboa Pier is expected to reopen Feb. 22, while
Newport Pier will reopen March 22, though work will continue until about
April.
Park up in the air as voting day arrives
March could be maddening to El Toro airport supporters if Orange
County voters opt for a Great Park. The county will go to the polls on
March 5 for a thumbs-up or thumbs-down vote on the South County plan.
The Orange County Central Park and Nature Preserve Initiative, also
known as Measure W, would rezone the closed El Toro Marine Corps Air
Station so a park in the vein of New York's Central Park or San Diego's
Balboa Park could be developed.
A "yes" vote would quash hopes in Newport Beach that the base would
ever see an airport built. It would roll back 1994's Measure A, which
county voters passed to permit the airport.
Supporters of the Great Park, whose key architect was Irvine Mayor
Larry Agran, say their initiative has widespread support. Recent polls
seem to bear that out, indicating a 67% support level for the plan.
Costa Mesa council seats up for grabs
Campaign season promises to be exciting with a handful of vocal and
involved residents vying for a wide open council seat, while trying to
knock Mayor Linda Dixon off the dais.
Dixon and Councilman Gary Monahan are up for reelection, and while
Dixon will fight to keep her position, Monahan decided to bow out of
politics, leaving a handful of contenders to compete for his seat.
