This Week on the Central Coast
Chitin Styrofoam, Old Monterey Farmer’s Market returns, new State Parks proposed, and the Santa Cruz Wharf is awarded a grant
Santa Cruz company determined to make a styrofoam replacement
Cruz Farms has developed a way to produce a plastic-like foam, similar to Styrofoam, from chitin. Chitin is the main ingredient in shrimp shells, “which is the second most abundant biopolymer on the planet.”
The new foam product, called Cruz Foam, is completely biodegradable. Cruz Farms hopes to make an immediate impact in the environment by replacing the thousands of metric tons of Styrofoam being ordered by local businesses.
Old Monterey Farmer’s Market is returning!
This Tuesday, May 25, the Old Monterey Farmer’s Market on Alvarado Street will be having a soft reopening. The first day back will only feature vendors on one block, from Franklin to Pearl street. The market plans on reopening to two blocks on June 15, the same day that Governor Newsom plans to reopen the state.
Strict rules will be in place, including masks and distancing. “Vendors will be told not to sell to customers who are not wearing face coverings.” Sanitizer will be made available throughout the market.
“Carmel Area” State Parks proposal gains momentum.
The California State Park and Recreation Commission met this week to discuss a plan that involves Point Lobos Natural Reserve, Carmel River State Beach, Point Lobos Ranch, and Hatton Canyon. The plan would turn three of the locations into state parks (Carmel River State Beach would remain a State Beach). This would allow for additional funding for those area which would be used to make improvements as well as to preserve the natural species and habitats in the areas. This is especially important now as we see more visitors and tourism in the area.
The only major issue that was not discussed in the proposed plans was a solution to the overflow parking that usually happens on the shoulder of Highway 1.
The full outline of the plans can be found here.
Santa Cruz Wharf awarded grant for improvements
The Santa Cruz Wharf was awarded $620,000 to help repair and improve the wharf. Local investment added to the total to help it reach over $750,000. The money will go towards “the replacement of about 50 older pilings, refurbish damaged decking, reinforce structural substrate and repair walkways and nearby parking.” A new two-story retail structure is also planned. The project is expected to create around 75 jobs and bring in millions in investment.
