Update on Committees — One Year Later

A year ago, several community working groups came together to explore some of the challenges and opportunities facing the North Beach. Each group had a different focus, from education and safety to technology, access, and long-term planning. One year later, some of those early discussions have turned into programs and initiatives, while other efforts are still taking shape. Here’s a look at what’s been accomplished and where things stand today.

Committees & Objectives

• Education Committee: Educate residents and visitors and promote safety on the North Beach.

• Technology Committee: Explore existing technology and how it might be applied to access.

• Siting and Traffic Flow Committee: Explore long-term options for a visitor/education center and parking.

• Planning and Implementation Committee: Provide planning and implementation support to help ensure steady progress by the various working groups.
  

Education: From Ideas to Action

The Education Committee, working with NBPA, has been busy putting education and safety ideas into action. The Committee sponsored an advanced training session for horse tour guides and managers that included information on topics beyond the horses themselves that are important to the North Beach.

The Beach Ambassador Program was launched this summer to educate visitors about safe beach practices and answer questions they may have about the North Beach. Ambassadors spoke with approximately 2,000 visitors throughout the summer.

An educational program was also held each Wednesday throughout the summer, with topics including sea turtles, water safety, Banker horses, and seashell-painting activities for kids.

NBPA added a Visitor Page to thelast12miles website, providing information on beach-driving techniques and other topics to help visitors have a safe and enjoyable experience.

Access & Technology: Exploring Solutions for Access

NBPA put together an Access Survey to better understand community, stakeholder, and visitor interest in moving away from a parking permit system toward managed access. The results of the survey will be shared in a community meeting on November 12 at the Carova Beach fire station. The ball is now in the County’s court regarding next steps, but the technology team has some recommendations and is ready to help.

The Technology Committee has also evolved into a coalition of local, tech-savvy residents exploring a variety of access systems. 

Siting & Traffic Flow / Planning & Implementation

The Siting and Traffic Flow and Planning and Implementation Committees are currently on hold while the County’s plans for the five parcels are being finalized. 

Looking Ahead

A lot has happened over the past year, and there is still more work ahead. Some initiatives are already making a difference, while others depend on future decisions and continued community involvement.

We look forward to seeing how these efforts evolve and to keeping our neighbors informed along the way.

Have questions or want to get involved with NBPA? We’d love to hear from you at alliance@thelasttwelvemiles.com.