Paso Robles, California
The City of Paso Robles General Plan established a policy framework for the creation of an agricultural greenbelt surrounding the City, deemed the “Purple Belt” given the preponderance of high-quality vineyards in the area. Urban expansion and rural residential development in the area surrounding the City threatened the viability of ongoing agricultural operations. EPS led a team of planners and agricultural specialists in developing an implementation program (Action Plan) for the Purple Belt. The Action Plan quantified agricultural resources, existing planning policies, and programs. The Plan established a cooperative approach to implementation that included creation of a managing entity and a development impact mitigation program, transfer of development credits, acquisition of conservation easements, and establishment of funding sources.