This month, about 900 residents responded to an online survey that asked whether the bike path configuration should change in four new options. Nearly 60% of respondents said they wanted a new bike lane that was physically separated from vehicles. Another survey is expected in the next month.

Although temporary changes could start as soon as August and last one year, permanent changes would require a county permit and approval of the California Coastal Commission, Koenig said. The permanent project could cost $30,000 to $85,000. Funding sources are not yet clear. 

The current configuration of East Cliff Drive from 32nd to 41st avenues. (Manu Koenig)

Option E includes a “surfcheck” bike lane that flows against vehicle traffic and could cost about $85,000 if installed permanently. It was Option E and the most popular option in a recent survey. (Manu Koenig)

Koenig said he did not have a preference whether the configuration should change or how it should change.

At Monday’s meeting, some residents said better signs are needed to show how cyclist and pedestrian traffic should flow. Some said cyclists go too fast on the East Cliff path, and others said tourists are often confused by the flow. 

“It’s going to take time to educate those who are using our roads,” said resident Paul Boyer.  “It’s going to take consistency, personal policing and telling the youth to slow down.” He said there should be better signs or markings, especially for teen cyclists and e-bike riders. 

Patrick Sharp, who grew up on 19th Avenue, said he liked Option C and its two-way physically separated bike lane. 

Another woman said that stickers on signs also detract from their messages and should be removed. 

A bike lane on East Cliff Drive now flows with vehicle traffic. (Ruby Lee Schembari — Santa Cruz Local)

Option D proposes a bike lane against traffic on the left side of the road bike at a cost of about $85,000. (Manu Koenig)

Option C would have a two-way bike lane that faces pedestrians. (Manu Koenig)

Option B would add a two-way bike lane with the flow of pedestrian traffic. It would cost about $30,000. (Manu Koenig)

Santa Cruz County Supervisor Manu Koenig discusses an option for East Cliff Drive at Monday’s meeting in Live Oak. (Ruby Lee Shembari — Santa Cruz Local)

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