Seabright and Santa Cruz Harbor-area business owners are reporting steep declines in sales following the full closure of the Murray Street Bridge, a key artery for commuters, tourists and locals.
Today’s Top Story
A significant story with interest across the county
Posted inLatest News
Santa Cruz County drivers beware: So much as touching your cellphone in the car could now get you fined
Santa Cruz County drivers face stricter fines thanks to a recent court ruling against handheld cellphone use. Local law enforcement and cycling advocates say the tighter rules are welcome in a county where distracted driving is “a very big deal.”
Posted inLatest News
RTC’s rail trail deadline arrives, but mobile home parks haven’t moved, likely spurring at least one lawsuit
The Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission’s June 30 deadline for removing encroachments on future trail land is here. While the owners and residents of one Live Oak mobile home park are discussing alternatives, those from the other park will likely face legal action.
Posted inCapitola & Soquel
Capitola Wharf Master Plan with restaurant moves forward
A new restaurant, lifeguard station and market space are expected at the Capitola Wharf after the plan got an initial green light Thursday from the city council. Councilmembers will hold a final vote on the wharf’s master plan in the fall.
Posted inLatest News
In wake of Moss Landing fire, experts defend battery technology in Santa Cruz County
As Santa Cruz County officials consider a battery storage facility near Watsonville, experts sought to reassure residents worried after January’s Moss Landing blaze that such facilities are safe.
Posted inHousing & Development
Long-troubled Soquel RV park faces uncertain future under controversial new owner
Soquel Gardens Mobile Home Park, a struggling RV park near Soquel Village, faces upheaval after it was purchased by a Stockton firm with a contentious past of evictions, steep rent increases and litigation over tenant displacement throughout California.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
‘It takes over your life’: County CEO Carlos Palacios on duty, disaster and the decision to step down
After more than eight years leading Santa Cruz County through disasters, budget battles and political shifts, CEO Carlos Palacios prepares to retire, reflecting on service, sacrifice — and what comes next.
Posted inFood & Drink
Beyond corn dogs and funnel cakes: Inside the food revolution at the Boardwalk
The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is ushering in a new era of dining, blending its nostalgic staples like corn dogs and funnel cakes with fresh, made-to-order offerings like tikka masala, Nashville hot chicken and quesabirria.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
As top bureaucrat retires, Santa Cruz County’s ‘generational shift’ deepens for local government
As Carlos Palacios steps down from his post as Santa Cruz County’s executive officer, a national search will begin for his replacement.
Posted inHousing & Development
As downtown Santa Cruz changes, longtime residents fear soaring rents and loss of community
As rapid development reshapes downtown Santa Cruz, longtime residents worry about rising rents, lost convenience, strained affordability and preserving their neighborhood’s deep community ties.