Recap: Castle Rock Public Open House
February 1, 2019
On Tuesday, January 29, California State Parks held an open house seeking input to assist in the development of a management plan for the system of roads and trails at Castle Rock State Park. The open house was held at the Cal Fire Summit Station on Skyline Boulevard, a central location for park users. Visitors were given the opportunity to view the latest planning information, discuss the planning ideas one-on-one with California State Park staff, and provide written comments.
For reference, Castle Rock is centrally located between Midpeninsula Regional Open Space (MROSD) preserves, Sanborn and Stevens Creek County Parks, and Big Basin State Park. This plan will lead to more bike access within the park, creating key regional trail connections.
Around 50 hikers, equestrians, and cyclists from the Bay Area attended the open house, and the air in the room was refreshingly positive. A State Parks staff member noted this event format encourages folks to discuss their views openly and without judgement. There were seven California State Parks staff members facilitating the event: Chris Pereira, District Roads and Trails Supervisor, Chris Spohrer, District Superintendent, Tyler Knapp, Ranger, Tim Reilly, Environmental Scientist, Brandon Caskey, Interpreter, in addition to two staff members from Sacramento; Jason Spann, Statewide Roads and Trails and Alex Stehl, Statewide Roads and Trails Manager.
Large maps were hanging throughout the room, each depicting unique factors that go into trail decision-making, such as existing roads and trails, erosion risk, wildlife habitats, and landscape features. There were two maps on tables where participants could leave sticky notes and their thoughts, generally, or on certain trails. Another opportunity for feedback were blank public comment sheets that were collected at the end of the open house. These maps encouraged discussion and served as a fantastic visual for the many factors land managers look at when decision-making.
Mountain Bikers of Santa Cruz staff and constituents attended the meeting in support of more bicycle access on existing fire roads and trails. After years of the initial discussion started in 2010, we created an updated talking points document which outlines the trails we believe should be open to cyclists. You can read all of the trails we advocated for here.
We want to thank everyone who attended the event, especially our friends Justin and Chris who rode their bikes uphill to attend! We’ll keep you updated on the process and what comes of the feedback the public gave on Tuesday. Stay tuned for the next chance to voice your opinion.
If you missed the meeting, don’t fret! Please send your feedback to [email protected]. 
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