Crystal Cove Has Bright Future Thanks To $2.9 Million In Funds

LAGUNA BEACH, CA — The diamond in the rough on the coastline between Laguna and Newport Beach will receive funding toward historic renovation thanks to the tireless efforts of Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris.

It began with a public campaign in October, where the group Crystal Cove Conservancy closed their $19 million campaign toward the infrastructure of the project. Norris, a Laguna Beach resident, has always loved this stretch of beach and has fought tirelessly to see it restored to its previous splendor.

"Drawing two million annual visitors, Crystal Cove is a gem on the California coast," said Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris. "I am absolutely thrilled to announce that I was able to secure state funding for the final phase of this historic renovation project."

The project began on December 1, 2018, and construction is ahead of schedule. Still, there is much more to do to complete the vision for Crystal Cove. On the site, 17 beach cottages have sat empty for 18 years. They have fallen into disrepair. Rodents have been the only residents of many of the cottages.

The plan is to return the cottages to an ideal destination for low-income families or individuals. The cost is reminiscent of days gone by, where a dorm lodge will cost $19.06 per person. A private cottage will run you $38.01. Those can sleep up to nine guests, they said.

"The rates are based upon January 2019 "rack rates."

The rental units are all steps from the sand. Guests will enjoy free parking and kitchenettes in each rental unit.

"Currently, the majority of Crystal Cove overnight guests come from California with a surprising number from inland and low-income communities like Los Angeles, Santa Ana, National City, and Cathedral City," the group said.

This funding marks the first funding for the final restoration project that at this point is estimated at $19 million.

Final estimates for the total cost of this project will be completed by summer of 2019.

Crystal Cove has been identified as a national model for public, private partnerships, with a commitment to providing full public access and low-cost overnight accommodations along the coast of California. The rates for the remaining 17 future cottages will mirror the existing range of affordable options offered at Crystal Cove State Park.

"Crystal Cove Conservancy is delighted to have Governor Newsom's support at this critical time in Crystal Cove's History," stated Laura Davick, Founder Emeritus and Co-chair of the campaign. "This critical funding will kick-off the vision for completion that so many have for this park. We are ever so grateful for both Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris and Governor Newsom as Crystal Cove's 2019 Park Champions."

Once the project is complete, due to a long-term management contract held by The Conservancy, Crystal Cove State Park Historic District becomes a self-sustaining model for the future, according to Davick, who added: "One hundred years from now, Crystal Cove will be even more important, and more loved, than it is today."