Construction Starts on Once-Contested Murrieta Project

A parcel of Murrieta land that once was the subject of a lawsuit and numerous appeals to the Planning Commission and City Council is finally under development.

Korean transplants and Laguna Niguel residents Yoon and Lillie Lee purchased the 2.3-acre commercially-zoned lot at the northwest corner of Clinton Keith Road and Nutmeg Steet in 2004, with the intention of developing it.

According to local news reports and city agendas dating back several years, their plans to build a day care center and office building on the property were contested. The project was finally approved in 2009, amidst complaints the commercial space would bring unwanted noise, increased traffic, and light pollution to the otherwise quiet residential area that borders Greer Ranch.

Though most of the controversy surrounding the project occurred before City Planner Cynthia Kinser came to Murrieta, she was familiar with it.

"It was ultimately approved by City Council," Kinser told Patch. "They came forward and proposed a day care center...They are entitled to build it."

On a recent weekday, Yoon Lee and his daughter, Michelle Lee, visited the property to witness the progress taking place. Yoon and his wife had since hired prominent San Diego-based J.R. Daley Construction as their general contractor.

The project is expected to be complete by late fall or early winter, according to Justin Weimer, director of business development for J.R. Daley.

There will be two buildings: one will host a Children's Lighthouse day care center, the other office suites.

Yoon said for the offices, he envisions tenants such as a dentist, veterinarian and psychologist.

"It will be a one-stop shop for families," he said.