Workshop #2: Ellwood Mesa Improvement and Restoration
Come see how the project has evolved based on the public input received since the last workshop, then participate in a Q&A session.
When: Wednesday, Dec. 5, 2012, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: Ellwood Elementary School Auditorium, 7686 Hollister Ave., Goleta
Cost: Not available
Age limit: Not available
Categories: Citizen's Alert
Description:
Refreshments will be provided. For questions or more information, call or contact vkushnerov@cityofgoleta.org.
Phone: 805-961-7507
Event posted Oct. 31, 2012
Last updated Oct. 31, 2012
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Comments
Still hopeful the City of Goleta will at some point, stop, slow down and listen to the public and leave the Ellwood Mesa alone. The General plan does not require paved or wider or more signage on the bluffs. There is little need to re-design or pave the existing, more than ample, natural dirt trail system. Ellwood Mesa is a passive natural open space, where you can see nature, amazing mountain and ocean views in a setting WITHOUT paved or "crushed granite" park like designed trails and signs. Create a smart phone application if you need signage. Please keep the dirt trails and natural looking open space as-is. All the paid "experts" will not be able to create a more natural place. If you build trails then it will just cost more money to maintain and increase the City's liability. Ellwood Mesa is not Shoreline Park and should not try to be, and was not saved to be that type of place.
If you can make it to this meeting please go tell the City of Goleta and SB County Trails Council "Do not Mess with Ellwood Mesa". No paved trails, no new trails, just leave it alone and let mother nature and the public enjoy Ellwood mesa in peace.
Thanks Ellwood Mesa Lovers!
Dont_mess_with_Goleta (anonymous profile)
November 17, 2012 at 12:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I found an overview here (click on "Workshop Powerpoint"):
http://projectgoleta.com/featured-pro...
I've been hiking, biking, and flying gliders out at Ellwood for ages now. I wouldn't have a problem leaving the mesa as is. However, looking through the overview, it does touch on things that can be improved. My main concerns are the myriad number of side trails that have proliferated over the decades as well as erosion. Those kinds of things aren't easy to notice because they occur over time.
I will admit the trail system at UCSB's west campus (shown in the powerpoint slides) does seem artificial" and intrudes on the natural aesthetic. On the other hand, they have remained in good condition under wet/dry conditions and have not suffered the channelization that Ellwood has as more and more people (and horses) visit the mesa.
As for ped bridges over Deveraux Creek, I suppose it depends on who you want to accommodate. Many of us can manage a crossing even when its full of water. But if you want to bring along older parents or grandparents, that's a different story.
Kudos to the City of Goleta for holding these public workshops.
EastBeach (anonymous profile)
November 17, 2012 at 2:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)