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Rep. Panetta Secures $800,000 in Federal Support for Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve Accessibility Improvements

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Rep. Panetta Secures $800,000 in Federal Support for Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve Accessibility Improvements
 

Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority will use funds to improve
Heart’s Delight Trail, preserve entrance and expand accessibility

SAN JOSÉ, Calif. – July 31, 2024 – United States Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) and the Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority (Authority), a 30-year-old regional public land conservation agency that protects open space and connects people to nature, today announced $800,000 in community project funding for accessibility improvements to the Heart’s Delight Trail and other facilities at Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve. Anticipated construction to begin summer 2025 with anticipated project completion 2026. 

“The people of South San José, like most in our 19th Congressional District, greatly appreciate their access to open spaces,” said Rep. Panetta. “That’s why I’m proud to have secured this significant federal investment that will make improvements to the Heart’s Delight Trail and provide more people with disabilities the ability to experience our Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve. As the U.S. Representative for the 19th Congressional District, it’s an honor to show that the federal government can actually affect people’s lives by investing in their access to our local environment."

Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve is a popular location for hikers, mountain bikers and equestrians. This project will provide opportunities to expand programming and connect the community to nature through highlighting the views, wildlife and natural resources to be found and enjoyed at the preserve.

Improvements will include a new shaded central gathering area at the entrance, with accessible signage, including preserve information and interpretation and seating.

"Increasing access to open space is imperative for local communities," said John L. Varela, Valley Water Board Director, District 1. "Valley Water is pleased to provide funding that, combined with federal funds, will enhance Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve for the enjoyment of all."

The total cost of the project is $1.4 million, with $800,000 funded by the Federal Community Project Funding, $200,000 from Santa Clara Valley Water District’s Safe, Clean Water Project D3 Trails Grant Program and $400,000 from the Open Space Authority’s Measure Q.

The project will also include improvements to the existing ¼-mile (½-mile round trip) Heart’s Delight Trail, such as standardizing the width of the trail and installing a stabilized surface. In addition, a new accessible picnic and gathering area will be designed to facilitate use for the public and support environmental education programming for schools and other community groups. Stops along the Heart’s Delight Trail will feature new interpretive signage about the history and future of Coyote Valley.

"The Heart’s Delight Trail improvement is a welcome addition to the accessible trail network for older and disabled adults and their caregivers,” said Dr. Anne Ferguson, founder and executive director of Bay Area Older Adults.

Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve is envisioned as part of a regional north-south trail network with future connections to the Authority’s approximately 1,500-acre Coyote Valley Conservation Area, the adjacent 1,800-acre Tilton Ranch and County parklands beyond. This project is the first step in realizing a longer-term vision at this location for ecological restoration, enhanced wildlife habitat and nature-based recreation.  

"We are thankful for Congressman Panetta's leadership in securing federal funding for our community's critical needs," said Andrea Mackenzie, the general manager of the Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority. "This federal investment will enhance equitable access to nature at Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve, alongside a local grant from Valley Water, which showcases the power of collaboration in creating spaces where everyone can revel in the beauty of nature. Situated just moments away from Morgan Hill and South San José, this preserve marks the initial step towards our broader vision of expanding nature access and linking regional trails."

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