LA HABRA

The Community Services Commission, citing the lack of playing fields for girls softball in the city, unanimously approved the La Bonita Park concept plan Wednesday night after two hours of public comment.

Commissioners said the 23-acre park is an appropriate place to build four softball diamonds.

“The recreational plan outlined here is diverse . . . more than 40% will be passive area,” said Commissioner Lynda Hill, addressing concerns from residents that the sporting facilities would disrupt the neighborhood.

Residents said they were concerned that traffic and noise would affect their neighborhood when construction is complete.

The commission’s approval is a recommendation to City Council and is contingent on final action by the Planning Commission, which will meet Oct. 23, said Kathy Kim, the city’s director of community development.