Foundation of a Community: The Birth of RDMIA
An overview of the establishment and early days of the Rio del Mar Improvement Association.
​​
The Rio del Mar Improvement Association (RDMIA) was established on August 16, 1941, during a meeting of nine property owners.
The association filed its Articles of Incorporation in Sacramento on October 23, 1941, making it the second-oldest neighborhood association in California.
​
Resilience in Adversity: Navigating World War II
The impact of World War II on the community and how RDMIA adapted during challenging times.
​
During World War II, RDMIA faced a temporary shutdown. In a community deeply affected by war, where improvements were nearly impossible, the association's resilience shone through. Rio del Mar (RDM) was primarily composed of second homes that absentee owners could not use during this era.
Many properties became rentals for construction and military personnel, drastically changing the Rio del Mar atmosphere, appearance, and character, leading to a decline in property values.
Non-resident owners became disillusioned, lost interest, and faced challenges selling their properties, leading to tax delinquencies that created additional problems for the county government.
​
Post-War Transformation: A New Era for Rio del Mar
Examining the changes in property dynamics and community character following the war.
​
This decline persisted until the end of World War II in 1945, when Germany and Japan surrendered. While Britain had been at war for nearly six years, the United States had been involved for just under four.
The journey back to stability for communities and the nation would take much longer than the duration of the war. New norms emerged, fundamentally altering the community. Today, Rio del Mar vastly differs from what it was in 1940 and the future envisioned back then.
Building the Future: Highway Development and Community Improvements
The association’s crucial involvement in infrastructure developments and community enhancements.
​
The RDMIA has remained active throughout these changes, playing a crucial role in the development of Highway 1, which was completed as a freeway in 1948, and the RDM interchange, which was dedicated in 1966.
The association faced many challenges with the Rio del Mar County Club (Seascape Golf Club) concerning the Inn, the Beach Club, the Golf Lodge, and the surrounding facilities. RDMIA was instrumental in demolishing the neglected yet famous Beach Club and removing its facilities.
Revitalization Efforts: Key Projects and Collaborations
Significant community projects such as the Deer Park Shopping Center and Café Rio Aptos.
​
The RDMIA’s contributions over the years have been significant. The Deer Park Shopping Center was built with the assistance of RDMIA officers, who, under the leadership of President John Bruning, conducted surveys in 1973-1974.
These surveys provided crucial data that influenced the owners and developers to proceed with the shopping center’s development plan, showcasing the association's ability to shape the community's future.​
​
Another notable development was Café Rio Aptos (Bella Union). The RDMIA actively supported initiatives to upgrade the Esplanade, assisting developers in navigating the complex planning and approval processes at the County and State Coastal Commission levels.
​
RDMIA, in collaboration with the Aptos Beach Pines Property Owners’ Association and others, played a pivotal role in the construction of the Rio Highlands subdivision. This was a significant achievement that successfully addressed residents’ concerns.
​
This effort spanned 16 years and required dedicated collaboration. County Supervisor Walter Symons recognized the community’s concerns and worked tirelessly with the Board of Supervisors and the State Coastal Commission to see the project through.
​
Persistent Advocacy: RDMIA's Role in Community Needs
Documenting RDMIA’s ongoing efforts to address various community challenges over the decades.
​
The RDMIA has consistently engaged. Throughout its 85-year history, it has addressed various challenges, including floods, earthquakes, sewage issues, golf course concerns, incorporation efforts, the Whaley Memorial, real estate signage, and numerous others.
The association has always prioritized the community’s best interests. Recently, RDMIA facilitated the installation of the Rio del Mar entrance welcome sign, contributed to developing the roundabout at the Esplanade — including relocating the Whaley sculpture — and renewed landscaping at the RDM off-ramp.
Ongoing landscape maintenance of these areas and various medians remains a commitment.
Celebrating Achievements: Awards and Recognition
Recognizing the association's contributions and community spirit through awards and honors.
​
In recognition of its efforts, RDMIA won the Aptos Chamber of Commerce award in 2015, a testament to its significant contributions to the community.
The association was also honored with the “The Most Unique Float” award during the World’s Shortest Parade on July 4, 2016, celebrating its 75th anniversary and further highlighting its impact and influence in the community.
Join the Journey: Be a Part of Rio del Mar's Future
A call to action for community involvement and support for RDMIA’s mission.
​
Membership support, community volunteers, and donations enable the association to fulfill its mission. Together, RDMIA is dedicated to maintaining and improving the Rio del Mar community, making it a better place for everyone.
Thank you to all who have contributed to this rich history. If you’re not already a member, we invite you to join us and be a part of our future!
​​​
Dive Deeper: Explore Our Community’s Rich History
Explore the books and documents available at the Aptos Chamber of Commerce and the Santa Cruz Public Library to gain a deeper understanding of the history of Rio del Mar and Aptos.
​