As summer concludes and we transition into the fall season, I am pleased to share updates on recent accomplishments and upcoming initiatives in our district. Summer is always a busy time for infrastructure improvements, community events, and public engagement, and this year was no exception.
Road Work
The summer construction season brought important resurfacing improvements to Murphy Road, Rogge Lane, and Scurich Road—enhancing safety, travel conditions and long-term infrastructure resilience.
In addition, the Annual Road Maintenance Project is scheduled between Aug. 25 and Sept. 26. Work includes patch paving on Green Valley Road (Pioneer to Sans Road) from Aug. 25–Sept. 4, and Casserly Road (Whiting Road to Green Valley Road) from Sept. 15–26. These projects reflect our continued commitment to maintaining safe and reliable transportation routes.
County Parks and Public Spaces
In July, we proudly opened Valle del Pájaro County Park—the first new County park in decades and the first with a Spanish-language name. This 38.5-acre site in Watsonville offers a walking trail, picnic areas, ADA-accessible parking, and a demonstration pond. A master plan is in development, and community input will shape future amenities.
On Aug. 28, we celebrated the completion of the Green Valley Road Multi-Use Trail Project. This $10 million investment improves pedestrian and bicycle safety while connecting residents to parks, schools, and shops. Together, these projects expand access, connectivity, and community health.
Community Engagement
This summer’s National Night Out at Pinto Lake County Park drew more than 1,500 residents and nearly 60 community organizations. Highlights included a helicopter landing demonstration and presenting a proclamation to Sergeant Nicholas Solano for his years of service in community policing. I extend my gratitude to all agencies and partners who made the event possible.
We also continue to organize monthly community cleanups on the fourth Thursday of each month. These efforts, in partnership with Pitch In Santa Cruz County, CDI, Watsonville Wetlands Watch, Watsonville Public Works, CAB’s Watsonville Works, and Speaker Robert Rivas’ Office, improve neighborhood appearance, safety, and environmental health.
Federal Impacts on County Budget to be Discussed
At the Sept. 30 Board of Supervisors meeting, staff will present an update on the effects of H.R. 1 on the County budget. Federal funding reductions are already causing multimillion-dollar shortfalls, staffing reductions, and service cuts, especially in health, human services, and disaster preparedness. Residents are encouraged to attend to learn more about these critical issues.
Upcoming Special Statewide Election
Santa Cruz County will participate in a special statewide election on Nov. 4. Ballots will be mailed 30 days before Election Day. Eligible voters should confirm that their registration is current and update their address if they have moved. Participation is vital to ensuring our community’s voice is heard.
Farmworker Outreach
Our office continues to support farmworker outreach efforts, connecting agricultural workers and their families with healthcare, legal services, and community programs. Farmworkers are the backbone of our local economy and food security, and supporting their well-being remains a top priority.
Open Office Hours
I continue to host open office hours on the second Friday of each month, from 2–4pm at my Watsonville Office at 150 Westridge Drive. These sessions allow residents to share ideas, raise concerns and receive updates on county projects.
County CEO Retirement
After nearly a decade of leadership, County CEO Carlos J. Palacios will retire this December. As the County’s first Latino CEO, he guided us through wildfires, floods, and the pandemic while expanding local services and championing equity. Prior to his county role, he served more than 20 years as Watsonville’s City Manager. As we begin the search for his successor, I welcome resident input on the qualities and most important priorities in our next CEO.
Closing
As we enter the fall season, Santa Cruz County remains focused on infrastructure improvements, community safety, civic engagement, and support for working families. I encourage all residents to stay engaged, participate in upcoming events, and help shape the future of our community.
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Felipe Hernandez, 4th District Santa Cruz County Supervisor
Fe**************@***************ca.gov
454.2200 (Santa Cruz Office)
763.8763 (Watsonville Office)
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