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Capitola council directs public outreach on six long‑term conceptual options for Capitola Wharf
Summary
Council approved initiating public outreach on six conceptual options (plus a 'do nothing' option) for the long‑term plan of the Capitola Wharf, ranging from open public space to permanent restaurant and vendor structures; staff and Fuse Architects will hold meetings and a month‑long survey in April.
The Capitola City Council on March 13 voted to direct staff to proceed with public outreach on six conceptual options for the long‑term plan of the Capitola Wharf and to include a ‘‘do nothing’’ option for public comment.
Staff and Fuse Architects presented six concepts ranging in scale and permanence: (1) open public space with no leased structures; (2) open space with mobile kiosks; (3) enhanced public realm with a fixed fishing concession and boat rental/repair; (4) fixed concession plus mobile vendors (buildings moved to one side); (5) fixed concession and flexible market space (open market footprint of roughly 2,862 sq ft illustrated); and (6) permanent structures including a full multilevel restaurant similar to the pre‑storm configuration. All options propose a public restroom and public gathering infrastructure; some options would retain the wharf hoist and boat storage while others would remove it.
Fuse Architects said the six concepts had been reviewed at a conceptual level with the wharf structural engineer and were structurally feasible, though options with heavier permanent buildings would require modifications below the deck. The design team emphasized lightweight, ocean‑ready materials for most options and noted that permanent options would require detailed structural study.
Staff outlined a public outreach program: two community meetings in April (one in‑person, one virtual), a 30‑day online survey during April with printed copies available at City Hall and the library, and presentations to city commissions and stakeholder groups. Staff said the outreach would return to council in June with a summary of public input.
Public comment at the March 13 meeting showed a mix of views. Longtime users and fishermen urged keeping the wharf primarily a fishing wharf and preserving its character; others urged exploring options to support both fishing and economic use, including kiosks or a restaurant. Speakers raised maintenance and climate resiliency concerns, asked about cost and funding sources, and encouraged outreach to seniors and youth. Several commenters recommended retaining boat access and the hoist; others suggested limited changes or the ‘‘do nothing’’ choice.
The council vote directs staff to proceed with outreach and to present public input and recommended direction later in the year.
