The population of Tejon Ranch City, California, is a little more than two hundred thousand. Its owners don't rely on the ranch to make a living. The city is growing fast, but it's not the only problem. A lack of housing in the region has led to a lack of affordable homes. There are also concerns about climate change, which makes it hard to promote exurbs as a responsible housing solution.
The first development plans for Tejon were released in 1997. These plans called for a massive industrial complex on 350 acres along Interstate 5, which is the main transportation corridor between Los Angeles and San Francisco. The complex was supposed to include a tourist attraction along the highway and a city of 20,000 people. The project was allowed, though, after the Ranch's sponsors provided guarantees that the community would maintain a healthy ecological balance.
The city has been home to many native tribes that spoke different languages. Other tribes escaped the mission system and settled in the area. Today, however, the city is a sprawling and thriving industrial area. Its location is a significant draw for businesses and tourists alike. The city also hosts several large truck stops. The population of Tejon Ranch is expected to grow by ten percent each year, with the city doubling in size over the next few years.
The city's economy has been hampered by a number of factors, including environmental concerns. While it's difficult to gauge the true impact of a proposed expansion, Tejon Ranch has made significant progress in the past decade. Since November 1991, Tejon reported a sixty percent drop in profits, and it's still growing, but it's not the same place it was in 1985.