River Valley Conservancy wins $20K grant for work on Del Mar River Path

The San Dieguito River Valley Conservancy has been awarded a $20,000 grant from the William Hall Tippett and Ruth Rathell Tippett Foundation towards construction of the Del Mar River Path.

The River Path provides a scenic overlook of the San Dieguito Lagoon and River, complete with interpretive signage of the flora and fauna. The trail goes from Jimmy Durante Boulevard west to the coast and parallels the south edge of the river, providing beautiful water views and information on this important wetland and natural resource.

This grant will help fund the construction of the portion of Del Mar’s River Path from Jimmy Durante Boulevard east to the Old Grand Avenue Bridge.

The total project cost is estimated at $475,000. This includes project design, entitlements and easement acquisition, environmental review and mitigation, and construction. Currently, 50 percent has been committed through a $150,000 grant provided by San Diego County District 3 Supervisor Dave Roberts’ office; $73,000 in private donations received by the Conservancy; $28,500 in grants received by the Conservancy ($7,000 from REI, $1,500 from the California 10/20 Race and the $20,000 from the Tippett Foundation); and $35,000 through the city of Del Mar, including a $5,000 grant from the Friends of the San Dieguito River Valley.

The San Dieguito River Valley Conservancy is spearheading the effort to build the Del Mar River Path extension for residents and visitors to learn about the lagoon environment and the River Valley Park.

The coastal area, which includes the lagoon, is the “gateway” to the San Dieguito River Park. It has vital ecological importance for the region as a stop for birds on the Pacific Flyway and as nesting and foraging areas for endangered, threatened and sensitive animal and plant species.

Last year, the Tippett Foundation granted $20,000 for construction of the Birdwing Open Air Classroom, the first educational gathering place at the lagoon. The Del Mar River Path complements the Birdwing by providing an additional educational and recreational opportunity where people of all ages and abilities can learn about and enjoy the lagoon habitats.