The Axel Lindgren Memorial Trail was closed February 10, 2023 due to storm damage and unsafe conditions at the bottom of the trail. Back-to-back "temporary closures" have followed, and the trail remains closed.
Meanwhile, the Tsurai Ancestral Society (TAS) commissioned an engineering study to upgrade the trail and to re-route the lower part along the traditional path to the beach. A report was submitted to TAS June 30, 2023. I believe TAS carefully reviewed the report before approving it and sharing it with the City. After receipt of the report, the Mayor had it posted on the City website in a meeting packet.
Opinion goes back and forth. City staff and TAS investigated the traditional route and found it more challenging than anticipated. For now, the City wants to re-open the trail in its present configuration and re-route it when able. I believe TAS wants to keep the trail closed until it is re-routed. There are alternative trails to the beach, so closure does not prevent beach access. The Axel Lindgren Memorial Trail is valued both for its cultural significance and scenic value. And you can appreciate these from the trailhead without actually walking down the trail.
On August 13, 2024, in support of TAS, the City Council resolved to
(1) Commit discretionary trail funds to the [TAS] project;
(2) Dedicate City staff time to search and apply for eligible grants;
(3) Have staff provide monthly progress assessments to the City Council; and
(4) Set Memorial weekend 2025 as the target for reopening.
On May 14, 2025 the City posted a permit application at the trailhead for "Repair and maintenance activities, including vegetation trimming and replacement of the cable steps at the base of the trail, in order to keep the trail publicly accessible". The application was for active repairs and maintenance in the current configuration.
At a Special Trails Meeting, May 20, 2025, the City Planner explained that the application simply amends the original 1996 CDP/Design Review/Use Permit. Further details appear in the packet from the Planning Commission Meeting, May 21, 2025. The trail would be reopened in its current configuration ahead of the larger TAS/GRD project. We'll see.