DeRail the Trail

By G. Wayne Eggleston

Recently, the city received a grant to build a "trail" from North Beach to the pier. When I first heard about this "trail," I thought it to be a natural pathway. However, upon learning more about it, I discovered that a seawall was to be constructed with a 12 foot wide lane on top. I oppose this plan.

Several individuals want to have a trail along the beach so they can walk; however it is important to set aside personal wishes and think what damage can be done with a seawall. Ventura built a seawall and bike path, and the engineers said that it would last for 20 plus years.It lasted for 2 years and caused tremendous damage to the beach. It is still an eyesore.

We need to spend more time finding out how we can replenish our beaches with lost sand than to construct a seawall along our beaches.

Several other candidates have previously spoken out in favor of a Beach Trail and, in fact, have written articles about the positive aspects of such a trail. Beware of the "wafflers" in a political campaign. One can never know what their position will be after they are elected. The voters need to know that their candidates stand firmly on the issues after the vote is taken. All too often in San Clemente have we voted for someone, only to realize after they were elected that they were on the opposite side of an issue. Know your candidates and what they have consistently stood for.