Healing begins for St. Andrews Presbyterian

NEWPORT BEACH — After years of planning, revisions, and soured relationships with surrounding residents, St. Andrews Presbyterian Church in Newport Beach is underway in a redevelopment plan of two buildings. And everyone involved agreed it's time to let the healing begin.

A ground breaking ceremony held after Sunday services in the church's courtyard including a cooperative effort between the church, the city and the community. Mayor Steve Rosansky, councilmembers Leslie Daigle and Keith Curry and former mayor Don Webb were among those who grabbed a shovel and gave the ceremonial movement of dirt.

The day's event was a testament to the church's hard work in trying to answer the concerns of the community, former Mayor Don Webb said.

"They are a long way from where they started," said Webb who has been connected to the project since it began.

The plans experienced some major changes over the last two years including a loss of a gym and underground parking, which Newport Heights and Cliffhaven residents believed would have increased congestion through residential streets.

"That was the big deal for us that it would draw more traffic," said Bill Dunlap, member of the homeowners association. "But we're excited for the youth and looking forward to more reconciliation between the church, city and the neighbors."

Essentially the new building will remain in the same footprint of the old one with a new addition, and basement devoted to youth activities, which will include a game and meeting rooms and a snack bar.

"All we wanted to do was to serve our community," Pastor John Huffman said.

— Kelly Strodl