One of the last stretches of open coastline in Carpinteria has been protected forever.
Land Trust for Santa Barbara County purchased 21 acres of property that is surrounded by breathtaking views, picturesquely framed by the Channel Islands, and scenic hiking trails.
Along with help from Citizens for the Carpinteria Bluffs and elected officials, the organization raised $5.4 million to conserve the natural bluff space where Highway 150 and Carpinteria Avenue intersect.
“I’m at a loss for words, which is rare for me,” said Chet Work, executive director of the Land Trust.
“For months, I drove past this property, walked and looked and questioned if this day would come. There are not enough places left within the urban boundary of the Santa Barbara coast for us to forget about one.”
Currently zoned for resort development, the property is part of the greater Carpinteria bluffs and has been threatened by development for more than a decade.
“Preservation of this land for us, our children and all who follow provides perspective on the importance of open space,” Carpinteria Mayor Gregg Carty said.
“This location as a gateway to the Santa Barbara County makes this land a special chance in a lifetime acquisition.”
However, the land is not yet fully paid off. The total campaign goal of $7.9 million allows for the purchase, long-term maintenance funds and trail safety, Work said.
“It’s not a cheap piece of property,” Work said.
The conservation organizations ask community members to help fundraise the remaining $2.5 million. With the Land Trust’s purchase of this property, they have 73 acres of protected bluff space.
Community concern to preserve the undeveloped portions of the bluffs dates back to the late ’60s. Since then, several proposals for commercial and residential use have been denied through opposition from the community.
In 1998, community residents rallied to purchase more than 50 acres of the area, resulting in the creation of the Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve, which is owned by the city of Carpinteria.
“This can be a sanctuary and safe (place),” Arturo Tello, president of citizens for the Carpinteria Bluffs said. “Nature’s work is magic. It’s wonderful we can connect and come here.”
— Noozhawk staff writer Brooke Holland can be reached at bholland@noozhawk.com. Follow Noozhawk on Twitter: @noozhawk, @NoozhawkNews and @NoozhawkBiz. Connect with Noozhawk on Facebook.
