As July unfolds, District 4 is bustling with activity, showcasing multiple ongoing projects, both within city limits and the unincorporated. From road clearing and road resurfacing to infrastructure improvements and community initiatives, District 4 is experiencing positive transformations. Amidst the activity, we strive to keep our roads well-maintained and provide opportunities for active engagement. Join us as we dive into the latest developments that shape our vibrant Pajaro Valley.
Roadside Clearing and Road Resurfacing
Through Friday, July 21, the following county roads will be resurfaced: Airport Boulevard, Holohan, Green Valley, Paulsen, College and San Andreas roads, Buena Vista, Oceanview and Holiday drives, Hillview Way and Hillview Circle. I encourage you to plan your commute accordingly as there will be delays in traffic.
The following streets will be cleared and dugout: Green Valley and San Andreas roads, Buena Vista, Oceanview and Holiday drives, Hillview Way and Hillview Circle. Thank you in advance for your patience and cooperation.
Caltrans is also almost done adding a new pedestrian sidewalk over the Corralitos Bridge on Highway 152, near the College Road intersection.
Murphy’s Crossing Road
This year the Board of Supervisors was able to set aside $320,000 to help resurface Murphy’s Crossing and when we accumulate $1 million in funds, the Santa Cruz County section will be completely reconstructed. My office is consistently looking for other funding sources.
Young Supervisors Academy
The Young Supervisors Academy has started. We have participants from Pajaro Valley High School, Watsonville High School and St. Francis High School. I am so proud of the inaugural class. The first week was eye-opening for most of them learning about the demographics of District 4 as well as how important education is. One of the participants asked Marcela Tavantzis if she could do her presentation to the local schools so other students may also learn how important education is and how we need to come together in community to uplift each other.
The second week was spent meeting with County Administrative Officer Carlos Palacios, District Attorney Jeff Rosell, County Clerk Tricia Webber, Steve Weisner and Kent Edler of Community Development & Infrastructure, touring the Watsonville Wastewater Plant, and touring the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary through the O’Neill Sea Odyssey.
Veterans Hall Facelift
The Veterans Memorial Building of Watsonville has been an integral part of District 4—hosting community meetings, parties and recreational activities for community members. My office has been organizing a facelift of the Veterans Building to give it a clean and fresh new look, bring honor to the veterans in the Pajaro Valley that have served our country and make the building more inviting to the rest of the community. Come join my office, American Legion Post 121, ABA Windows, Santa Cruz County Parks Department, and local painter Randall LaMere in giving the Veterans Hall a facelift on Friday, July 28, and Saturday, July 29 from 9am–1pm. Volunteers are needed, and all supplies will be provided.
It will cost us about $5,000. If you want to donate, make checks payable to: American Legion Post 121, 214 Center St., Watsonville, CA 95076
Indicate that the donation is for the Veterans Hall Facelift.
Office Hours
Open office hours will be held every second Friday of the month at the satellite office located at the Veterans Building, 215 E. Beach St. in Watsonville. Walk-ins welcome, no appointments are necessary, and residents can discuss issues or just meet me.
With resurfacing projects, infrastructure enhancements, educational endeavors like the Young Supervisors Academy, and community initiatives such as the Veterans Hall Facelift, District 4 embraces progress and community. By working together, we can create a more vibrant and inclusive Pajaro Valley for everyone. Your participation and support is invaluable as we continue to build a thriving community. Let’s grasp the opportunities before us and help our beloved district flourish.
Supervisor’s Update is a recurring column from Santa Cruz County Supervisor Felipe Hernandez’s Office.
