A crew from Community Tree Service removed several large trees and trimmed back several others Monday and Tuesday at Watsonville Plaza as part of phase 1 of the ongoing Plaza Revitalization Project.
Bob Berry of Watsonville Public Works and Utilities, said the removal of some trees was due to disease.
The city is working on approximately a $6 million renovation project for the Plaza, with construction scheduled to begin late spring of 2026 and is expected to be completed by summer of 2027.
Key projects include a full renovation of the 1906 gazebo/bandstand, built in by architect William Weeks. Plans call for structural repairs and retrofitting the internal structure to allow for future performances, with better space and underground electrical work to enhance events such as holiday lighting.
The project also includes a new 30-inch concrete performance stage, improved furnishings, new picnic tables and benches, electrical upgrades, new ADA walkways, and landscape improvements—including tree planting and irrigation throughout the park.
Berry said plans also call for closing the plaza altogether for 9 months to a year, possibly starting in October. The pair of historic canons in the plaza will be repositioned and the current diagonal walkways will remain.
Meanwhile, the city is working with Community Arts & Empowerment to create mosaic images that will adorn the skirt for the new performance stage. Images for the project will be available for a month for community review starting in February. Organizers said they will launch the public survey Feb. 13 starting at the Farmer’s Market.
Additionally, four mosaic sculptures, ranging in height from 6-9 feet, are currently being constructed by lead artist Kathleen Crocetti.
Titled “Pageantry and Performance,” the works will depict women in traditional attire, including an indigenous woman, Asian, European, Mexican, and South and Central American.
