Council approves realignment of Ocean View shoreline trail after appeal; opponents seek broader plan

The Pacific Grove City Council voted to deny an appeal and approve a coastal development permit to realign an approximately 100-foot segment of the Shoreline Recreation Trail at Ocean View Boulevard, near Esplanade Park, moving the trail inward from an eroded edge to improve public safety and maintain coastal access.

City staff told the council the project "would restore a small section of the recreation trail to address the safety and shoreline erosion issue" and that the work would occur within the existing right of way, use best management practices and follow the city's black oystercatcher protection protocol (staff). The staff report recommended denying the appeals and approving the permit subject to standard conditions and categorical exemptions.

Appellants Lisa Ciani and Tony Chiani told the council the project should not proceed as proposed without more study and clearer safety plans. "The proposed trail realignment into Ocean View Boulevard is an important step... but... the coastal commission wants to know coastal resources are being…