Quick Take:
Aiming to fuel business growth, the Commerce Department has ticketed $620,000 for Santa Cruz, with the funds to be used for infrastructure improvements on the wharf.
The historic Santa Cruz Wharf is receiving a hefty boost of federal funds for the city’s redevelopment project.
On Thursday, the city of Santa Cruz was awarded a $620,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration, according to a press release. The grant is expected to help create 75 jobs and generate $6 million in private investment.
“This EDA investment will strengthen the Santa Cruz Wharf to allow a new two-story retail structure to be constructed on the site of a recently demolished, single-story building,” Acting Assistant Secretary Dennis Alvord said in a statement.
The EDA grant funds, which will be matched with $155,000 in local investments, will help renovate the 107-year-old wharf, including improvements to aging pilings, decking, walkways and adjacent parking locations.
“As the state looks ahead to fully reopening, we are grateful for this boost to ensure that Santa Cruz’s iconic attractions continue to draw visitors from far and near,” Gov. Gavin Newsom said in a statement.
In November, Santa Cruz City Council approved a master plan for the wharf. The plan serves as an initial guideline on proposed improvements to the historic site, including the construction of a new promenade, new walkways, an event pavilion, two new boat landings and both parking and building expansions.