Ojai advances Ventura and Ojai Valley Railroad Heritage Trail signage and begins citywide historic survey

Commissioners received progress reports on two linked preservation efforts: interpretive signage for the railroad/bike trail and the kickoff of the city's historic-resources survey.

Signage project: Ad hoc members proposed renaming the trail the "Ventura and Ojai Valley Railroad Heritage Trail" to reflect the historic railroad name and to encourage Ventura partners. Wendy Barker of the Ojai Valley Museum confirmed museum staff will support research and that four of 25 proposed signs have initial funding.

Survey kickoff: Consultants contracted to conduct a citywide historic resources survey reported they will begin by drafting a context statement to organize themes and eligibility criteria. Commissioners emphasized the need to include the Chumash and other underrepresented histories, and to capture 1960–1985 themes that will bring more buildings into consideration. Craig Walker highlighted missing topics, saying the context draft should address gaps: "One of the things you'll notice... there's nothing on the Chumash or any of the Native Americans," and commissioners were asked to forward locally held sources and suggestions to the consultant liaison.

Next steps: the trail signage team will continue design and fundraising work; the survey team will produce a draft context statement and timeline for fieldwork; the commission asked staff to ensure the survey team brings monthly updates to the HPC so commissioners can contribute local knowledge.