Bayview Tower Done, Another Nearing Start

The $400-million mixed-use Bayview project in Newport Beach is entering its final phase with the opening of one six-story tower and preparation for the start of its twin.

The site, at Jamboree Road and Bristol Street, was used during the 1953 Boy Scout National Jamboree--an event that attracted 53,000 Scouts and gave Jamboree Road its name. The main encampment was situated on what is now Fashion Island.

Tenants in the first of the two towers include the project’s original developers, Downey Savings & Loan Assn. and the J.M. Peters Co. The joint-venture partners purchased the property in 1986 from the Bayview School District.

The 64-acre development consists of offices, single-family houses, condominiums, retail stores, restaurants and a 251-unit Marriott Suites hotel, which opened June 13.

The first tower is 52% leased, according to John Dennis, Downey’s vice president for marketing. One of the principal tenants is Ford Aerospace, which has signed a seven-year lease for more than $3 million.

Canadian-based Bramalea Ltd. will develop the second tower. It purchased the property from Peters in 1987. Work is expected to start in August and be completed early in 1990.

The open area fronting the bay, used by Sea Scouts during the Jamboree, will be developed into a 16-acre community park with trails for bicycling, jogging and horseback riding.

The 215 single-family detached houses and 50 condominiums were built in 1987 by the Peters Co. and are all occupied.

Dennis said the residential tract was sold out in less than three months. Prices for the houses ranged from about $185,000 to $245,000, and condominiums from about $145,000 to $220,000. Dennis said they have increased in value “at least 20%.”

Three-Story Atrium

Parking for the first tower is provided by a five-story structure that will be doubled in size to accommodate cars that will use the second tower. Executive parking is also available within the first tower and will be available within the second.

The towers, connected by a three-story atrium, will both have a finish of rose-hued Balmoral granite and cinnabar-toned one-way vision glass with aquamarine accents.

Marriott General Manager Brad Snyder said that the $29-million hotel is the chain’s third all-suite hotel and the first on the West Coast. “We opened our doors at 70% occupancy and are now running more than 80%,” he said.

Architect for the just-completed Downey tower was McLarand, Vasquez & Associates, Costa Mesa, and the general contractor was the Koll Co., Irvine.