North River Farm - Frequently Asked Questions
We understand that questions will arise through out the process. The list below represents the topics we’ve heard most about. Please email us if you don’t see what you’re looking for.
What is North River Farms?
North River Farms is a highly sustainable, mixed-use community located in Oceanside’s South Morro Hills neighborhood. Honoring the region’s rich farming history, the project features 395 state-of-the-art, eco-friendly homes centered amidst more than 80 acres of open space and agriculture. It also establishes Oceanside’s first agrihood, showcasing the best in farm-to-table healthy living that will be enjoyed by residents and visitors. North River Farms was originally approved in 2019.
How has the project changed as a result of negotiations after approval?
After years of discussion and compromise, the plans for North River were allowed to proceed after a settlement was reached in the spring of 2022. The settlement includes a reduction of housing units and commercial space, funding for evacuation enhancements, increased open space, and more. Lennar is proud to bring this collaborative vision to life. The complete plan can be downloaded here. The summary of changes are on pages 4 and 5.
Who is the builder?
Lennar Homes of California is the community builder.
Does the builder have permits?
Permits are in hand for the work currently in process. Lennar is working closely with the city on the necessary permits for future phases. Visit the city’s e-trakit system to view documents.
What are the community benefits of the project?
With its agricultural focus, core improvements to water, sewer and roadways, North River Farms is the catalyst to ensure a thoughtfully planned future for South Morro Hills.
North River Farms includes a diversity of parks and recreation, including miles of trails for hiking, biking and walking, a dedicated mountain bike track, community pools, a fire station and Oceanside’s first public dog park. Funding for fire evacuation enhancements has already been given to the city.
North River Farms will feature the opportunity for a variety of retail and restaurant opportunities, including an artisanal makers’ building.
It is important to note that although the unit count has been reduced by 190 homes, the infrastructure upgrades and offsite road improvements have NOT been reduced/amended.
What traffic improvements are planned?
Delivery of key circulation features like street widening, paving and striping, traffic signals and other offsite improvements will ensure the necessary infrastructure is in place prior to residents moving into this new neighborhood. Improvements include widening North River Road and the College Blvd Bridge, turn pockets at Sleeping Indian and Vandegrift, and multiple traffic signals. Offsite traffic improvements will begin in December 2023 and are scheduled to take 18 months to complete. We appreciate your patience and apologize in advance for the inconvenience. Click here to see a graphic depicting the improvements.
What is the timing for the project?
The overall timeline is subject to change and contingent on a variety of factors, such as weather, market, and supply chain. Grading began in early 2023. Home sales should begin in early 2025. We anticipate that construction will be complete in 2027.
What kinds of homes are there?
North River Farms provides 395 detached single-family homes, ranging in size from approximately 2,200 SF to 5,500 SF. Each home will feature a two-car garage, private yard, solar panels, and provide access to community recreation.
Can I buy a house?
Not yet. Sales information will be available in late 2024.
Is there affordable housing included? How can I sign up?
North River Farms is proud to provide 44 affordable housing units constructed by Mirka Development. Construction of this project will start in the spring of 2024 with homes released for rent in 2026 subject to fair housing practices.