POST Acquires Seaside School Ridge
151-acre Property Features Spectacular Views
January 13, 2004
A prominent 151-acre property with some of the most spectacular views on the San Mateo Coast has been purchased by the Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST).
Known as Seaside School Ridge, the property is located less than a mile from the junction of Highways 1 and 84 in San Gregorio. It features picturesque rolling hills, pasture and farmland, and offers signature views of the San Gregorio Valley and nearby Pacific Ocean.
"This property represents another key piece in the puzzle to prevent inappropriate luxury estate development and preserve the open, rural character of the San Mateo Coast," said POST president Audrey Rust. "Seaside School Ridge has a billion dollar, 360 degree view. It's just breathtaking. Once we have raised the funds to complete this acquisition, it will be protected forever."
POST purchased the property from private owners for $1.3 million. When it went on the market in 2001, the land was originally priced at $3.5 million and promoted as a potential site for up to three estate residences. The list price dropped to $1.6 million last year.
"The reduced price made it possible for us to acquire the land and eliminate the threat of development," Rust said. "This land is highly visible from Highways 1 and 84. No matter where a house was built on the property, it would have negatively impacted the scenic landscape throughout the area."
Historically, Seaside School Ridge has been used to grow hay and graze cattle, activities that will continue under POST's ownership. Its name comes from the adjacent Seaside School, a 129-year old, one-room schoolhouse located on private property at the corner of Stage Road and Seaside School Road. The school is now used by the family that owns it for family gatherings.
Along with its stunning views, the property provides potential trail connections and recreational opportunities with other protected lands. It is bordered to the west by POST's 267-acre San Gregorio Farms and located less than a quarter mile from San Gregorio State Beach.
Initially, POST will manage Seaside School Ridge. Ultimately, the trust hopes to transfer the land to a public agency, Rust said.