Environment
Randall Preserve receives $2 million for restoration and public access
A Proposition 4 grant will support early stewardship, safety and habitat work at the former Banning Ranch as the coastal property moves toward restoration and eventual public use.
Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris presented $2 million in state funding for the Randall Preserve, according to original reporting by the Los Angeles Times’ Daily Pilot and releases from her office and Orange County Supervisor Katrina Foley. The 387-acre preserve lies along the Orange County coast near Newport Beach and Costa Mesa.
Officials said the voter-approved Proposition 4 climate bond money will support early stewardship and operations, including climate resilience, public access and public-safety work. The Daily Pilot reported that planners are testing the wetlands and preparing a first construction phase focused on restoring habitat and creating space for the public to learn about and enjoy the preserve.
Funding: $2 million
Source: Proposition 4 climate bond
Site: Randall Preserve, formerly Banning Ranch
Area: 387 acres along the Orange County coast
Current stage: Early stewardship, testing and restoration planning
What comes next
The grant is an early project investment, not an announcement that the preserve is open. Restoration and cleanup remain multi-step work, and officials have not provided a public-opening date. The Daily Pilot’s October 14 report said the first construction phase is being organized around wetland habitat restoration and community access.
The land was long used as an oil field before conservation groups and public agencies secured permanent protection. Its conversion into restored habitat and public open space is expected to proceed in phases.
Original reporting: Los Angeles Times Daily Pilot — October 14, 2026 →
Official confirmation: Office of Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris — October 9, 2026 →