As a member of the Parks and Recreation Commission I recently heard a presentation by Bob Geyer, Assistant Director, Public Works & Utilities on the Trails and Bicycle Mater Plan. As a component of the Watsonville Urban Greening Plan many areas of benefit, priority path and bike trails, and the need for community input were presented.
Over the last six months, stakeholders from , Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission, Resource Conservation District of Santa Cruz County, State of California Coastal Conservancy, Sierra Club, Land Trust of Santa Cruz County and Watsonville Parks & Recreation Commission have met with staff to give input to the development of this Plan.
The benefits of expanding and creating new path and bike trails include:
- Improving health through active living;
- Creating value and generating economic activity;
- Non-vehicular transportation options;
- Improved air quality;
- Enhancing cultural awareness and community identity; and
- Support/compliment flood protection efforts
Thirty-three locations throughout the city for expanded/new trails have been identified. A priority has been given to North Pajaro River Levee Trail, Corralitos Creek Trail, Pajaro Valley High School Connector Trail, Lower Watsonville Slough Connector Trail, Upper Watsonville Slough Trail, Rolling Hills Connector Trail and Shell Road Trail. An additional 11 bike trails have been identified. A priority has been given to Martinelli St, Brewington Ave, Union/Brennan St, and East Lake Ave.
This is a long-term plan with many, many grants that will need to be obtained to implement the new path and bike trails. However, we need your input to make this plan a reality. Several workshops for community input are scheduled on the following dates:
- June 18, 6:30 p.m., Old City Council Chamber
Please participate so we can hear your voice and finalize the Plan. You can go to the Watsonville City website or to the Watsonville Public Works & Utilities website to view the Master Plan. Should you need additional information you can contact Bob Geyer at 831-768-3100.
