Valencia Road Damage Update

Communications Manager Jason Hoppin, County of Santa Cruz

We sent the following press release out today. Just an FYI for neighbors: Due to continued significant movement on Valencia Road, the County of Santa Cruz plans to install fencing on either side of the closed section of roadway at Trout Gulch Road and Aptos School Road to maintain public safety.

Since the section was closed January 22, county engineers have carefully monitored the roadway for additional movement following an initial drop of 12 inches due to a failed culvert. While that movement slowed recently, the atmospheric river that brought several inches of rain on the region on Tuesday caused further damage to the road. More rain is expected tonight and into Thursday.

Recognizing that it serves as a critical passage for several neighborhoods as well as Valencia Elementary School, the Santa Cruz County Department of Public Works is exploring options for reopening Valencia Road. The road is closed indefinitely to all forms of travel including vehicles, bicycles and pedestrians.

The County thanks the public for its patience.