Carpinteria coastal bluff may be saved from bulldozers with on going fundraising drive
Many Carpinteria residents are making it clear they don’t want large hotel projects to replace scenic ocean coastal land. To back up their passion for the open space preservation, they are involved in a massive fundraising effort with a key deadline this weekend.
Anyone, not just city residents, can donate $10. A donor will turn that into $100. gift and overall this phase of the campaign can raise $100,000 by the end of the year deadline. The contributions are being counted individually (at $10 each) to encourage widespread support.
Ultimately with the financial plan in place and a purchase agreement ahead, the overall goal is about $7.5-$8-million for the land and an endowment.
Organizers call it an amazing chance to preserve the site with sweeping views of the coast, and the Pacific Ocean.
Donations can be made on line, and more information on the project can be found at:
To put into perspective from the view of paraglider and local resident George Jimenez, “to keep the small beach and the openness, there is so much more value to the openness of this place.” A visiting resident from Santa Paula Brenda Colburn was on a hike with her family in the area and said as she looked out to the island views, “people from all over the world come here to experience this. This is more valuable than any condominium or anything they could potentially build. They have to appreciate it to conserve. If you can’t appreciate it, you can’t understand why there is a need to conserve.” Jimenez said, if you want to see high rise hotels and coastal development right along the sand, “go to Malibu or L.A.” He described the spot as like a diamond and you would not want to lose it. Nearby 16 years ago at Bailard Avenue, the city and its residents bought and preserved another large coastal area, just east of City Hall. It has trails, paths to a seal rookery, jogging and walking paths, and thriving native species.
(Please check back more details and video will be added later today )
