Disputed Calabasas area land saved as open space

Nearly 200 acres of grassland and oak trees at the junction of the Ventura Freeway and Las Virgenes Road have been acquired by the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority. The land will open to the public on Saturday, when a dedication is scheduled. “It’s just so special,” said longtime real estate agent Fred Sands, who agreed to sell the property. “I’ve walked that property and I’ve hiked it. I’ve taken people there and their jaws dropped.” Big development plans by previous owner Robert Zuckerman had stirred considerable opposition, so the new parkland is a welcome addition. “My first look at the dozens of mature oak trees and the pristine nature of the property convinced me on the spot that the property should be part of the Santa Monica Mountains park system,” said Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky, whose website announced the new turn of events tonight.

Photo: Zev.lacounty.org