Active Projects
Save the "Bird in Flight” Rio Del Mar’s Iconic Whaley Sculpture
The Whaley Sculpture at the Rio Del Mar Roundabout is a significant public artwork showing signs of wear and needs restoration.
The RDMIA seeks professional services and donations to inspect and repair the sculpture.
The community is encouraged to support the Whaley Sculpture Restoration Fund to preserve this important local heritage.
Active Projects
Bi-Annual Meeting
Upcoming Event
Fall 2025 Meeting
Our next semi-annual member meeting will take place in mid-October 2025. Please check the return for details and other upcoming events.
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First Half 2025
Recent Events
2025 Spring Meeting
April 16th, 2025
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Help Restore the Iconic Whaley Sculpture at Rio Del Mar
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Shout out to Quilici Gardening for their support with the Esplenade Roundabout
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​​Community Collaboration Triumphs in Palm Tree Trimming Project
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Innovative Shoreline Project Protects Rio del Mar Beach
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New County Supervisor, Kim De Serpa: Engages with the RDMIA
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Pajaro Valley Health Care District: Ensuring Access to Quality Care​
​More details and contact information can be found in our newsletters. Be sure to register or update your RDMIA membership for early access to future newsletters, meeting and events.
Latest Newsletter
2025 Spring Newsletter
Gratitude to Quilici Gardening for Help with Community Beautification
RDMIA expresses gratitude to Paul Quilici and the crew at Quilici Gardening for maintaining the Rio del Mar entry sign area.
The association appreciates the company's donation of time and expertise, which helps keep the community looking its best.
Community Collaboration Triumphs in Palm Tree Trimming Project
A big thank you to The Davey Tree Expert Company. Visit their website at davey.com
The Rio del Mar Improvement Association (RDMIA) recently completed a palm tree trimming project at the Esplanade, initiated by members Jeff Whalen and Joyce Burnett.
Despite challenges like high bids and ownership issues, the project was completed with the help of our local Davey Tree Arborists, who provided free labor and equipment.
RDMIA members covered the debris removal cost through donations, showcasing successful collaboration with local businesses.​ ​
Innovative Shoreline Project to Protect Rio del Mar Beach
The Rio del Mar Living Shoreline Pilot Project, launched after the 2021 storm damage, uses driftwood and native plants to protect facilities and support natural processes. Supported by local groups and volunteers, it has withstood recent storms.
Ongoing efforts include replanting to stabilize dunes. The Monterey Bay Living Shoreline Program and California State Parks, with help from UC San Diego Scripps Institute, conduct monitoring.
Volunteers can join future restoration activities by contacting the Outreach Team at Groundswell.org
Photo courtesy of Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks
PVHCD: A Community-Driven Commitment to Healthcare
The Pajaro Valley Health Care District (PVHCD) was established to ensure access to quality healthcare and was formed in 2022 to keep Watsonville Community Hospital from closing.
The district prioritizes patient care over profit, supported by community contributions and state funding. Residents can check if they live within the district using the Santa Cruz County GIS map.
WCH CEO Stephen Gray discussed the district and the hospital more at our Spring 2025 meeting. The newsletter article was submitted by Allyson Violante, WCH Director of Government and Community Relations. ​​​
New County Supervisor, Kim De Serpa: Engages with Our Community
Kim De Serpa, the new Second District Supervisor, shared her initial experiences in the office. She focused on understanding county services and budget challenges. Her team, including Maureen McCarty and Gigi Kelbert, plays a crucial role.
De Serpa emphasized fiscal responsibility and community well-being, inviting residents to upcoming office hours to discuss local issues. She is committed to serving the community and welcomes input from constituents.
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For more information or to reserve a specific time at office hours, please call (831)454-2200 or email: