BREAKING: The city of Santa Clarita has just announced the addition of 670 acres to its Open Space Preservation District, including the historic Beale’s Cut. This significant expansion, confirmed on November 14, 2023, is a crucial step in preserving the natural and historical landscape of the region.
Beale’s Cut, located off Sierra Highway, is not only an important wildlife corridor between the Santa Susana and San Gabriel Mountains but also a vital historical site. Mayor Pro Tem Laurene Weste expressed her gratitude to former state Sen. Scott Wilk for his instrumental role in securing state funding for this acquisition, emphasizing its importance to the community.
Since launching its open space program in 2007, Santa Clarita has successfully preserved over 12,000 acres. The area now covers 18.75 square miles, slightly larger than the city of Burbank.
“We’ve been talking about possible city ownership of Beale’s Cut for over 30 years,” said local historian Leon Worden. He praised the city council for their unwavering commitment to this goal, noting the historical significance of Beale’s Cut as the first stagecoach pass in the Santa Clarita Valley, dating back to the 1850s.
The recent council meeting highlighted other additions to the open space, including the LaBelle Property (180 acres), the Vartanian Property (145 acres), and smaller parcels totaling approximately 49 acres and 13 acres in surrounding areas.
This development is not just about land; it represents a commitment to preserving local history and ecology. The acquisition of Beale’s Cut is particularly poignant, as it safeguards a site that has witnessed the evolution of transportation from stagecoaches to modern highways.
As the city of Santa Clarita moves forward, residents and environmental advocates are encouraged to engage with the ongoing preservation efforts. The next steps will focus on integrating these new lands into the existing open space framework, ensuring they are accessible for future generations.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as Santa Clarita enhances its commitment to environmental and historical preservation.
