Construction of Aptos Village Plan set for March 2016

It was standing room only in the Rio Sands Hotel Banquet Room Wednesday night as more than 150 community members showed up to voice their concerns about the Aptos Village Plan.

“I am concerned that Barry Swenson builders has been allowed to get away with as much as he has, or the company has,” said Aptos resident Becky Steinbruner.

The Aptos Village Plan, approvedin 2012, is over 50,000 square feet with 69 residential units and 15 commercial spots.

Residents’ main concerns are the effects of the development on thedrought and area traffic.

“There are over 1,000 households beyond this development and they are not figuring in those traffic impacts,” said Steinbruner.

Santa Cruz County leaders told the crowd lots of parking will be available, including bike lanes and more pedestrian walkways.

“I’m looking forward to having something that can be a heart of Aptos that people can come to that actually congregate in a nice public space,” said County Supervisor Zach Friend.

As for water issues, a development representative said all the units will be equipped with high efficiency faucets and toilets. The Soquel Creek Water District has been involved in planning the development.

While many community members still have concerns, overall the meeting ended with a lot of questions answered.

Construction is expected to begin in March 2016.