Watsonville is making meaningful investments in our streets, sidewalks, and neighborhoods this year—improvements that reflect both our infrastructure priorities and our shared commitment to safety and accessibility.
We’re starting with a major reconstruction of Green Valley Road and Bridge Street, which includes replacing aging pavement and sidewalks, updating signage, restriping, and installing high-visibility crosswalks. These improvements will reduce traffic hazards, enhance walkability, and create safer conditions for everyone who uses these corridors.
In addition, we’ll be performing preventative maintenance on portions of Ford Street, Freedom Boulevard, Harkins Slough Road, Kilburn Street, Loma Prieta Avenue, and Union Street.
This work includes slurry sealing, minor repaving, restriping and upgrades to crosswalks and signage—targeted efforts that extend the life of our roads while improving safety and visibility.
One of the most impactful projects we’re launching is the Safer Access to Pajaro Valley High School and Beyond initiative. This multi-year effort will significantly improve walking and biking routes to and from our local schools.
It includes the construction of a pedestrian bridge across Highway 1 at Harkins Slough Road, new sidewalks, upgraded bike lanes, and safer crossings near Cesar Chavez Middle School, Freedom Elementary, H.A. Hyde Elementary, Radcliff Elementary, Rolling Hills Middle School, and Starlight Elementary.
These are not just infrastructure projects—they’re investments in the daily lives of our residents. They make our neighborhoods more walkable, our routes to school safer, and our city more connected.
While we focus on physical improvements, it’s equally important to reaffirm the values that guide us as a community.
Recently, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security released a list of jurisdictions it refers to as “sanctuary cities.” Watsonville was on that list. I want to be clear: Watsonville remains a
Sanctuary City—a designation that reflects our long-standing commitment to creating a safe, inclusive environment for all residents, regardless of immigration status.
Our local policies are built on the principle that public safety depends on trust. When residents feel safe coming forward to report crimes, seek help, or cooperate with local law enforcement, our entire community benefits.
Watsonville Police do not engage in immigration enforcement. That responsibility rests with the federal government. Our officers are here to protect and serve all members of our community without exception.
Earlier this year, the City Council unanimously reaffirmed our Sanctuary City status—reiterating our values of fairness, inclusion, and safety. We fully comply with state and federal laws while ensuring that no one in Watsonville lives in fear of reaching out for support.
As a city, we remain focused on the issues that matter to our residents: safe streets, quality services, and policies that reflect our shared values. I encourage everyone to stay informed and engaged—we are stronger and safer when we work together.
