Capitola council declines to fund full Depot Hill pathway now, asks staff to add bluff‑end viewpoints to CIP

The Capitola City Council on April 9 reviewed a conceptual design and cost estimate for the Grand Avenue (Depot Hill) Pathway and directed staff to include smaller bluff‑end ‘viewpoint’ improvements in the city’s capital improvement program rather than using city general funds to construct the full pathway now.

City staff described a constrained conceptual design that preserves ADA access where possible, uses hand construction in erosion‑affected areas, and maintains a 15‑foot setback where feasible. Staff estimated construction costs of about $220,000 plus an additional $32,000 for final design and permitting, bringing an all‑in conceptual estimate to approximately $250,000–$275,000. Staff cautioned the pathway is an interim solution with limited grant eligibility and uneven lifespan across sections; the Saxon–Oakland segment is in a higher‑risk erosion zone and is currently closed.

Council discussion focused on funding options and liability concerns, and whether property owners who have encroached into the right‑of‑way should bear removal costs. Community members urged volunteer action, fundraising and inclusion of the neighborhood in planning. Several speakers suggested the neighborhood could raise funds or perform volunteer work to open portions of the trail, and others urged the city to track the need in the CIP for future funding opportunities.

Council member Westman moved to direct staff to include improvements at the ends of streets that dead into the bluff (viewpoint/end‑cap areas with benches and limited access improvements) in the CIP and to not pursue city general fund spending for full pathway construction at this time; the motion was seconded and passed unanimously.