In a recent government meeting, the Duarte Unified School District board engaged in a detailed presentation regarding the proposed development of the Crestfield property, led by Robert Montano from the ADEPT development team. The project aims to address the district's long-term sustainability and community needs following the difficult decision to close certain facilities due to unfavorable conditions.

Montano emphasized the importance of community engagement and the project's alignment with the district's goals, which include attracting new families and enhancing public education. The proposed development will feature family-oriented townhomes, specifically designed with three and four-bedroom units to accommodate growing families, rather than multifamily apartments. This approach aims to provide affordable housing options in a region facing a significant housing shortage.

The project also includes plans for substantial improvements to the adjacent park, which will see upgrades to facilities, new landscaping, and enhanced recreational spaces. Montano highlighted that the development would generate long-term revenue for the school district and the city, as the property, currently off the tax rolls, would contribute to local taxes once developed.

Community outreach is a key component of the project, with Montano announcing a series of public meetings to solicit input from residents. The development team plans to establish a dedicated project website to facilitate communication and provide updates throughout the planning and construction phases.

Board members expressed their appreciation for the project's potential benefits, including increased enrollment in local schools and enhanced community amenities. They also raised questions about parking arrangements, construction timelines, and how the community would be informed about upcoming meetings.

Legal counsel for the district confirmed that a robust community outreach plan would be formalized as part of the development agreement, ensuring that resident concerns and feedback are adequately captured and addressed.

Overall, the meeting underscored a collaborative effort between the school district, the development team, and the community to create a sustainable and beneficial project for Duarte.