Stop Construction of Milani Project at 18831 Von Karman, Irvine CA 92612

The residents of AXIS 2300 in Irvine have just observed a period of construction which was noisy, disruptive, 
and even health-threatening to some vulnerable residents in their neighborhood. Now, yet another developer 
proposes to demolish the building next door, which is dangerously close to their current homes, to build yet 
another apartment residence.

Residents of AXIS 2300 include those who are disabled and elderly. They have treasured the accessible features of their home which are extremely difficult to find, and some have installed expensive aids to enable them to live there comfortably. They have respiratory problems and other serious health issues. Their doctors have offices nearby.

Other residents have chosen these apartments because they work virtually from home, and the location near the airport and other business services has been ideal. They require a peaceful and quiet location for their work. Still others have valued the fact that they can walk to their work. Many of the people who live at AXIS 2300 hoped to make a permanent home there and that is especially true of those who have a variety of disabilities.

The proposed demolition will almost certainly produce dangerous dust particles, and perhaps fungal spores, including the very dangerous aspergillus spores, which inhaled can cause fatal infections. The Carlyle at Colton Plaza construction, recently completed, brought rats, another health hazard especially for vulnerable residents.

The completion of the proposed apartments will bring a fourth high density unit to just one city block. Traffic is already a problem. The new building is a story higher than AXIS 2300 and will cast shadows over once sunny patios and the community common area always actively utilized for swimming, barbecuing, catering, private parties, relaxing in the Jacuzzi, reading and socializing with friends. AXIS 2300 widely attracts families with small children, young professionals, students, corporate executives, elderly and the physically-challenged. Many dogs and cats live there, too.

Before the city continues with more residential units in this already congested area, it needs to step back and consider the mitigating measures that must happen if residents of AXIS 2300 and those living in other similar Irvine residences are to enjoy the quality of life and health that they expected when they settled in Irvine. Planners must carefully study successful measures in other urban areas that were able to preserve open green space while meeting housing needs. Irvine needs to seriously consider the ridership incentives, as well as the tax support necessary to design and build a modern system of public transportation that will lessen traffic jams now appearing throughout the city, and especially in the Irvine Business Center.

Other areas of Irvine benefit from the Village System. Where is our Village? Instead of cramming one more high density residential building into this small area, Irvine needs to consider our need for peaceful park facilities with a safe playground area with appropriate playground equipment for children. What we don't need is to have our homes disrupted to the point where we need to venture out, once again, to try to find the accessible and quality of life we once had here at AXIS 2300.