Boundaries:
Granada Hills is populated by 51,000 people (Sperling 's Best Places, 2012). The borders include Devonshire Ave on the south, LA City limits/county line on the north. The east border includes the 405 and interstate 5 freeways. Opposite to that is the Aliso Canyon border on the west. Neighboring cities include North Hills, Northridge, Mission Hills, and Porter Ranch.
Housing and zoning:
I mainly observed single family track homes, one story, and mostly in good condition. Most homes had wood foundation with pitched roofs. Stucco, brick, and wood are the main finishes used on the outside of the houses noted. There seems to be ownership pride within majority of the community. Houses are an average of 10 feet apart. Median age of homes is between 45-50 years old. Most homes are up to date with central air and heating. Very few apartment buildings were spotted.
Open spaces:
Open spaces exist mostly on the northern side of Granada Hills past the Knollwood golf course. This golf course area seemed to be safe and attractive. Most of the land looks safe. There are open areas dedicated to large number of electrical poles and wires that supply the city. This area was gated off, but it seemed to be an eye sore to the community and the surrounding houses. There is a water reserve near the 5 freeway called the Upper Van Norman Lake, which takes up a large area on a hill. This area looks attractive, but not used by the public.
Commons:
O’Melveny Park seemed to be a great park for hiking and has incredible views of the San Fernando Valley. With great weather on Saturday and Sunday, adults and children of all ages were observed using the grounds. Another hiking trail was observed called Mission point. On weekends you will mainly see adults of all ages, mostly fit and athletic. Petit Park has an auditorium and playground for kids. On Friday afternoon I mainly encountered women and young non-school aged
References: Sperling 's Best Places. (2012). Best places to live in Granada Hills, California. Retrieved from http://www.bestplaces.net/zip code/california/granada_hills/91344