Capitola issues restrictions for Capitola Village, beach due to social distancing concerns

CAPITOLA, Calif. (KION) Capitola has put restrictions in place at Capitola Village and the beach area due to social distancing concerns during Santa Cruz County's Shelter in Place.

The city said despite the order, it has seen public gatherings and social distancing violations around Capitola Village and the beach area.

Because the city is concerned about crowds gathering as the weather gets warmer, it is taking the following measures:

• The Upper and Lower Pacific Cove parking lots will be closed to the public. The Lower lot will be open to permit holders and city employees.
• The maximum parking time in Capitola Village will be reduced from three hours to one starting Thursday.
• The city has removed benches from the sidewalk near Capitola Beach.
• Tents, pop-ups and other temporary shade structures are banned on the beach, but umbrellas are allowed.

The changes are in effect until further notice.