PORTOLA STATION (41st Ave. & Portola Dr.)
The final phase is underway. The former Opal Cliff Motors and Cliff Café buildings are being converted into a full-service restaurant and bar with patio dining, along with a second-story one-bedroom residential unit featuring two decks.
PLEASURE POINT PLAZA (Storage Yard Across from SUDA)
A revised development proposal currently under review by Santa Cruz County Planning differs significantly from the project approved in 2019. The current proposal includes:
- Four stories instead of three
- Reduced setbacks
- 50 rental units
- Approximately 10,000 square feet of commercial space
The original 2019 approval allowed 33 rental units and approximately 7,000 square feet of commercial space. The revised application remains under County review and has not been approved.
SPPt believes the proposed increase in density is out of proportion to the size of the site and has expressed concerns regarding neighborhood compatibility, resident privacy, access to natural light and airflow, and the adequacy of on-site parking.
THE LUMBERYARD (38th Ave. & Portola Dr.)
SPPt has encouraged the property owner to improve the appearance of the site while awaiting redevelopment. Updated plans have not yet been resubmitted for the proposed three-story mixed-use project consisting of 22 for-sale condominiums, including below-market-rate units, with ground-floor retail space.
BACK IN SHAPE
Steve Gabay’s chiropractic office and the adjacent parcel remain listed for sale at $4 million. As the property has not sold, no development applications have been submitted.
3501–3513 PORTOLA DR.
Owned by the same family for decades, this 1.83-acre former camper shell business site adjacent to El Rancho Center is listed for sale at $6.9 million and is zoned Residential-Flexible. While there have been reports of investor interest, no development applications or public proposals have been submitted.
40 MORAN WAY / EAST CLIFF DR.
Following the removal of storm-damaged trees in 2024, restoration efforts remain on schedule for 2026. Planned improvements include planting native trees and coastal landscaping, as well as addressing drainage issues.
MORAN LAGOON & HABITAT AREA
The updated Moran Lake Monarch Butterfly Habitat Management Plan (MBHMP) will be considered during a public hearing before the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors on August 11, 2026.
The final draft incorporates current scientific research and guidance regarding monarch overwintering habitat, findings from the 2025 wind study, and establishes goals for habitat and forest management, public safety, restoration of native species, and long-term biodiversity.
EAST CLIFF WALKING & BIKE PATH
Due to current budget constraints, the larger improvement project has been delayed. However, repainting of bike lanes and pavement markings to improve safety and visibility for bicyclists and pedestrians is expected to be completed before the end of 2026.
THANK YOU!
A heartfelt thank you to the volunteers and neighbors who continue to care for the flower beds, landscaped areas, and green spaces along East Cliff Drive between 32nd and 41st Avenues. Your ongoing efforts help preserve the beauty and character of our community.
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT…
In April 2024, SPPt publicly expressed concerns regarding a potential conflict of interest involving Tim Gordin, CEO of Workbench, while he served as the First District’s Planning Commissioner during development of the County’s Housing Element. Eight months later, he resigned from the Planning Commission.
More recently, both Santa Cruz Local and Lookout Santa Cruz published investigative reports examining:
- Workbench’s involvement in multiple legal disputes with the City and County.
- Questions regarding transparency in the relationships and decision-making involving Santa Cruz Housing, Santa Cruz County, New Way Homes, and Workbench.
We encourage interested residents to read these independent reports and draw their own conclusions.
JOIN SAVE PLEASURE POINT!
No dues. Just neighbors working together to help preserve what makes Pleasure Point special. Stay informed about local planning issues, development proposals, community events, and opportunities to participate in shaping the future of our neighborhood.
Email: [email protected]
SPPt Is BIMBY — Balance In My Backyard
Save Pleasure Point supports thoughtfully planned housing and mixed-use development along the Portola commercial corridor that is appropriately scaled, context-sensitive, and consistent with the adopted Portola Drive Commercial Corridor Design Principles.
We believe new development should complement the unique character of Pleasure Point while balancing housing needs with neighborhood livability.
Our Lower 41st business district, world-renowned surf breaks, scenic East Cliff walking and bike path, locally owned businesses, and strong sense of community make Pleasure Point a treasured coastal destination enjoyed year-round by residents and visitors alike.
Save Pleasure Point Volunteer Steering Committee
Jo Ann Allen • Kimber Blackburn • Patti Brady • Alison Butler • Kevin Butler • Paige Gordon • Carin Hanna • Glenn Hanna • Lowell Marcus • Matt McMillan • Padi Romero • Deb Still • Jerry Still • Marika Strauss • Kevin Walter • Vanessa Young
All committee members are Pleasure Point residents or local business owners.
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