The long-awaited Morro Bay-Cayucos connector trail, in planning for 20 years, is one step closer to reality. The San Luis Obispo County Board of Supervisors recently approved an application for a $2 million grant from the California Coastal Conservancy to address the project's remaining funding gap. If the grant is secured, construction is expected to begin in 2027 and be completed by 2028.
The $12 million trail will provide a safe route for pedestrians and cyclists traveling between Morro Bay and Cayucos, where no dedicated path currently exists. Without a vehicle, travelers must navigate the narrow shoulder of Highway 1. San Luis Obispo County planner and project manager Elizabeth Kavanaugh emphasized the trail’s importance as a safe and accessible connection between the two communities. Supervisor Bruce Gibson highlighted its broader impact, calling it a transportation link, a recreational asset, and a tourist attraction, particularly with the rise of e-bikes.
The connector will integrate county and city-owned land, using existing streets and bike routes, while newly constructed sections will run along the coastline. The 12-foot-wide trail will feature multiple access points to the shore, public trail connections, bridges, and a retaining wall designed to blend naturally into the landscape. According to Kavanaugh, users will enjoy breathtaking views of Estero Bay, Morro Rock, and open space while experiencing the sights, sounds, and scents of the ocean along the new pathway.
Despite facing opposition from some Toro Lane residents over concerns about public access through private roads, the Parks Department has worked to minimize disruptions by utilizing existing easements. Supporters argue that the trail will enhance safety, connectivity, and community interaction.
Gibson expressed optimism about the project's progress, stating that after years of planning, the connector is finally becoming a reality. “When it’s open, it’s going to be fantastic,” he said. “It’s going to be good for everyone, and I’m looking forward to using it while I can still ride a bike.”