It is already August, which means back-to-school, back to the legislature, and back to making things happen. I hope you've had a restorative or adventurous summer and are ready to settle back into your routine--whatever it may be! In this month's newsletter, I'll share upcoming and recent events, along with important local updates and resources.
Upcoming Events
Care Fair comes to Santa Cruz
Care Fair is just around the corner! This annual event rotates throughout the district, and this year we're bringing it to Santa Cruz on September 20. We'll be celebrating 12 incredible Mental Health Heroes who serve Assembly District 28--so don't miss the chance to honor their work and explore resources to support your well-being.
We're still accepting tablers! If your organization enhances mental health through art, movement, meditation, or other practices--we'd love to have you share your work with the community. Please fill out this form so our team can follow up with details.
Women's Equality Day 2025
Each year, the Santa Clara County Commission on the Status of Women commemorates the adoption of the Nineteenth Amendment with an inspiring event featuring speakers and entertainment.
While the Nineteenth Amendment granted many women the right to vote in 1920, women of color did not gain the same access until the passage of the Voting Rights Act in 1965. This year's theme, "Rooted in Community, We Rise Together," recognizes that true equality can only be achieved when we lift each other up. The event is free to attend, but registration is required. This year's event will take place at the Mexican Heritage Plaza in San Jose on Friday, August 22, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Other Community Events This Month
Past Events
National Night Out
National Night Out lit up Assembly District 28, with cities and neighborhood associations coming together to connect, share resources, and strengthen relationships with local police officers.
Team Pellerin was out across San Jose, Santa Cruz, and Morgan Hill--meeting constituents and sharing state resources. Thank you to everyone who stopped by our tables to say hello!
Taking Care of Business - Willow Glen
In order of appearance from top left to bottom right: Copita Tequileria y Comida, Waxing The City, Mariette Chocolates, Eye Luv Lucy Optometry, Mathnasium, Fortress Business Services
Earlier this month, I partnered with the Willow Glen Business Association to tour some of downtown Willow Glen's incredible small businesses. Known for its charm, this district is the perfect spot to grab a bite, find a unique gift, or even run a quick errand.
It was such a joy to meet the business owners who make Willow Glen a special place to visit. Check out my Instagram over the next few days for spotlights on each stop!
Recognizing Small Businesses in Santa Cruz
In order of appearance from top left to bottom right: Venus Spirits, Clay Creation, The Bagelry, Childish Toy Shop, Oswald Restaurant
In late July, I made some stops in Santa Cruz to spread appreciation to a handful of the amazing small businesses that make our city shine. I was delighted to present certificates of recognition to the owners of Venus Spirits, Oswald Restaurant, Clay Creation, The Bagelry, and Childish Toy Shop. If there's a locally owned business you think deserves recognition, I'd love to hear about it--reach out to my office and share why they should be celebrated!
One of my favorite summer traditions is the Almaden Valley Summer Concert Series, hosted by the Almaden Community Center. I was honored to join the final concert of the season and thank everyone who makes this event possible year after year. A special shout-out to The Iconics for closing out the summer with fantastic music that had the whole community up and dancing!
Resources & Updates
Heads-Up: Murray Street Bridge Closure
Construction is now underway on the Murray Street Bridge Seismic Retrofit Project in Santa Cruz, a major infrastructure improvement aimed at bringing the Bridge into compliance with state-mandated modern seismic safety standards.
The seismic retrofit includes replacing outdated structural components, adding new pilings and supports, and upgrading drainage systems to extend the life of the bridge and improve its resilience in the event of an earthquake.
Bridge Closures are currently taking placethrough 2028:
- Westbound Lane Closure: Closed to vehicles and bicycles starting March 24, 2025, through project completion in January 2028.
- Full Bridge Closure: From June 23, 2025, to February 2026, both directions will be closed to all traffic--including vehicles, bikes, and pedestrians--for major demolition and construction.
- A second full bridge closure is expected to start early to mid-2026 and last for three months.
- Pedestrian Access and eastbound lanes will reopen in February 2026, while westbound lanes remain closed until 2028.
You can view detour maps here. Lower Seabright and Harbor area businesses remain open during the Murray Street Bridge seismic retrofit project.
An alternative transportation option: As a trial program, the free Santa Cruz harbor water taxi added additional hours during the Murray Street bridge closure, so hop aboard! You can learn more here.
Operating Hours:
- Thursdays: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM (During Crow's Nest beach barbecues)
- Fridays: 3:00 PM - 8:00 PM (Trial basis - new!)
- Saturdays & Sundays: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Holidays: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day)
Please plan and allow extra time when traveling in and out of the Santa Cruz Harbor area. For detour maps, timeline updates, and more, visit the City of Santa Cruz project page.
Constituent Services
As your elected representative, I'm here to serve you in a variety of ways. One of the most important is helping you navigate issues with state agencies.
Whether it's the DMV, Franchise Tax Board, EDD, Disability Insurance, or another state department--we're here to help. Contact my office through my website or by calling:
📍 San Jose District Office: (408) 264-2848
📍 Santa Cruz District Office: (831) 425-1503
Please don't hesitate to reach out. My team is ready to support you in any way we can.
Warm regards,
Gail Pellerin
Assemblymember, District 28
