Carp’s EIR Committee Recommends Inland Route for Rincon Trail

In a surprise move, the Carpinteria Environmental Review Committee voted unanimously to recommend a different route for the new Rincon Trail above Bates Beach than had been endorsed by the city’s environmental impact report (EIR).

The hearing, held on Tuesday, April 13, 2021, took over 2 ½ hours to review the 438-page EIR report submitted to them in March and to take public comment at the meeting.

The committee voted unanimously to recommend an alternative route on the freeway side of the cliff away from the busy beach parking lot and no longer in view of the traditional clothing-optional section of the beach. A revised EIR was also ordered.

The committee’s recommendations still need to be reviewed and approved by the City Planning Commission, and then by the Carpinteria City Council. Ultimately, the final decision may lay with the courts should anyone be unhappy with the decision and decide to appeal. Construction could take up to two years after final approval.