Santa Cruz community members gather for West Cliff Drive 50-year vision workshop

On Thursday night, dozens of Santa Cruz community members gathered to provide feedback on the 50-Year Community Vision draft for West Cliff Drive.

Attendees were able to comment and ask questions about different aspects of the plan and what the city should do moving forward.

It comes amidst continued erosion along West Cliff Drive Thursday in the Steamer Lane area. The City of Santa Cruz is warning about cracks in the boulders and advising people to use caution near the area.

"It's a natural process, but we want people to stay safe and again, avoiding cliff edges and avoiding the area in the surf lineup below these cliffs," Santa Cruz Parks and Recreation Director Tony Elliot said about Steamer Lane.

Visible cracks in the cliffs around Steamer Lane are once again highlighting the growing issue for many living along and utilizing West Cliff Drive.

“I think we need to look at who's using it. There's a lot of people who use the walk and bike out there who go out there and park now some of the elderly, and we have to be inclusive, we have to include that," Santa Cruz resident Bob Pearson said.

Attendees at the workshop were broken up into various breakout rooms to discuss ideas and feedback with officials. Some of the topics talked about included vehicle access, limited hard armoring, and nature-based solutions.

“I'd like to see also access, access to beaches, access to surf spots, access to the bluffs," Santa Cruz resident Emmett Balassone said.

The city continues to invite those who couldn’t attend to participate online in the public engagement process, which continues until March 8.

In terms of where this feedback will be heading next, it will be presented to Santa Cruz City Council at one of their regular meetings in April.