It's something nobody in Santa Cruz County can remember, especially during the busy summer tourist season, a sign that reads "Please Stay Away."
The sign may be virtual, but the message is real.
All available rooms are needed for CZU Lightning Complex wildfire victims and there’s no room for tourists or visitors with one in five locals looking for a place to sleep.
Jason Hoppin is the Communication Manager for the County of Santa Cruz, and he told KCBS Radio that the county is trying to keep the capacity open for its residents.
“People are also accessing hotels, motels, vacation rentals and things like that,” he said.
In a tweet, the County wrote that it will welcome visitors back to Santa Cruz soon, but that it’s not the time for a day at the beach.
Visitors, we will welcome you back to Santa Cruz County soon. But please, DO NOT visit us now. Air quality is poor, ash is everywhere, and we’re dealing with an unparalleled catastrophe. This is no time for a day at the beach. Thank you.
— Santa Cruz County (@sccounty) August 22, 2020But Hoppin said the community is stepping up to help its own.
“We’ve got an amazing stream of people showing up at our County warehouse,” he said. “I almost teared up when I saw it yesterday. Car after car after car, there’s kids toys, kids stuff, all new bedding, tents.”
While tourists are being pushed away for the time being, Hoppin said this is just another example of locals coming closer together.
