San Mateo County’s Fitzgerald Marine Reserve has suffered significant damage due to recent winter storms, with key infrastructure eroding and compromising the safety of its visitors.
The substantial weather deterioration destroyed the beach and tidepools' easy-access ramp and induced damage to the bridge crossing San Vicente Creek, as reported by San Mateo County Parks.
In light of this hazardous environment, currently, the only route to the beach is by stairs at the former ramp location. With slippery conditions due to the rain and high tides, park officials caution visitors to be particularly careful. While a replacement bridge is being prepared, it is not expected to be ready for installation until December or early January 2024.
Responding to these hazards, park officials implore visitors to remember safety measures, including restraining from climbing over or undercutting the security fence surrounding the damaged bridge. To disrespect safety precautions could endanger both individual safety and the surrounding habitat's vitality.
There have been past occurrences where visitor actions have led to wildlife disturbances or off-trail ventures, resulting in harm to both the environment and themselves.
