We usually write about the Coastside’s new trails, sweeping views, and wildlife. But some of the things that make a park visit better are more down to earth, like a good restroom.
Eight new restrooms are nearly finished, funded by ADA improvement money and Proposition 68, the 2018 California Drought, Water, Parks, Climate, Coastal Protection, and Outdoor Access For All Act. They are going in at Gazos Creek (part of Año Nuevo), Bean Hollow (south), Central Pescadero, North Pescadero, Pomponio, San Gregorio, Cowell Ranch, and Burleigh Murray.
These are vault toilets built from concrete block, designed to last for many years. Many replace portable toilets, which are hard to maintain and unpleasant to use. All eight new restrooms will be accessible, so visitors of all abilities can use them.
Installing a restroom may sound simple, but every park presents its own challenges, and construction takes a long time. The eight restrooms will cost more than $2 million in total. Once finished, they will be sturdy, weatherproof, and useful for decades.
You probably won’t visit a park just to see the new restroom, but it’s nice to know your trip will be a little more comfortable.
Prop 68 has finally paid off on the Coastside, and without it these restrooms could not have been built. CSPA would have contributed what we could, but now those funds can go toward other worthwhile projects.
Here’s to voters making parks better for everyone!
– Bill Murray, Coastside State Parks Association Board Member
