2025 Project Update
As of Spring 2025, the planning phase of the Paradiso del Mare Coastal Trail project is 30% complete and being reviewed by the Union Pacific Rail Road and the California Public Utilities Commission. The engineering for the bridge across the railroad is moving to the next phase of development. In preparation for applying for County of Santa Barbara permits, the overall project plan, including the trail, parking lot, and bridge over the railroad, has been initiated. Formal project approval and permits are anticipated to be received in 2026. A grassroots funding campaign is underway, and applications for grants from foundations and government programs will begin shortly.
Project History
Location:
County of Santa Barbara | Gaviota Coast
Description:
The Paradiso del Maré project includes a bluff-top Coastal Trail extending over 1.1 miles along the scenic Gaviota Coast, making it the longest segment of the Coastal Trail acquired in the County since the 2004 acquisition of Ellwood Mesa in Goleta. This trail will be the first phase of the 20-mile-long Gaviota Coastal Trail, which will stretch from Bacara Resort and Spa to Gaviota State Park.
Located a quarter mile west of the Bacara Resort and Spa, the project has over 100 acres of the property dedicated to a conservation easement, preserving the rural character of the land for generations. The developers have also set aside easements for the California Coastal Trail, an auxiliary loop trail, and an onsite public parking area. The project exemplifies developer and community cooperation to deliver significant public benefits.
Establishing an endowment funded by the project developer addressed challenges related to project initiation and trail construction feasibility. As an agent for the County of Santa Barbara, the Trails Council manages the endowment and coordinates fundraising for the estimated $4 million needed to complete the pedestrian bridge over the Union Pacific Railroad, parking area, and trail network. The Trails Council has created a California Coastal Trail Fund to accept donations for this project. Community members are encouraged to contribute to support the trail's completion and ongoing maintenance.
Client:
Paradiso del Maré Property Owner
Funding:
A $500,000 endowment from the project developer supports the initial implementation of public access easements. Community donations and fundraising efforts will provide additional funding for trail infrastructure, bridge, and parking lot.