19 Mansions May Be Headed to Los Angeles Wilderness

Two canyons separated by a hilltop, the area acts as a catch basin for rain as well as a habitat for native animals and plants. It also happens to sit atop the Sierra Madre fault.

The city of Glendora approved proposals for the site in 1989, and a portion of the land has already been developed. But the 19 remaining lots are essentially untouched, and developers would need to build access roads and connections to water and utility services.

Local and national conservation groups are taking steps to oppose the project; the L.A. chapter of the Sierra Club has retained a high-profile environmental law firm, while the Trust for Public Land has considered buying the property. Neighboring mansion-dwellers also oppose the development, in the interest of retaining their views.

Since the original proposal was approved so long ago, a new EIR is required. It is scheduled for release this month.