If you’ve spent any time on the Northern California coast lately, you know Crescent City isn't just a place where people stop for gas on their way to the redwoods. It’s changing. Fast. Honestly, keeping up with Crescent City CA news these days feels like trying to track the tide during a winter swell—there is a lot moving under the surface.
From the massive $40 million injection into the Last Chance Grade project to the surprisingly heated debates over Measure S tax oversight, the town is at a bit of a crossroads. People are talking about housing, dredging, and whether or not the city needs more pot shops. It's a lot.
The Big Fix: Last Chance Grade and the $40 Million Tunnel
Basically, if you live here, you hate the Last Chance Grade. Or you fear it. Probably both. That stretch of Highway 101 just south of town is notorious for sliding into the Pacific every time a cloud looks at it funny.
But here is the real news: things are actually moving. Senate President pro Tempore Mike McGuire recently announced a $40 million state investment. This isn't just "study" money. It’s the cash needed to kick off the official design phase for a 6,000-foot tunnel.
When it's done, it will be the longest tunnel in California.
"It’s about damn time," McGuire said during the announcement.
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He’s right. For decades, Del Norte County has been one major landslide away from being cut off from the rest of the state. This tunnel is the "permanent fix" everyone has been praying for, though we’re still years away from actually driving through it.
Housing Wars: Townhomes and the J Street Debate
Crescent City has a housing problem. You know it, I know it. So, when a local developer like Sam Schauerman (Elk Creek Builders) proposes a 14-unit townhome project at 708 J Street, you’d think everyone would be cheering.
The Planning Commission just gave it the green light in early January 2026. These are going to be market-rate rentals. Two bedrooms, 2.5 baths. Sorta fancy for that area.
But here’s the rub: some locals are worried about "market rate" becoming "unaffordable." There’s always that tension here—needing growth but fearing the locals will get priced out of their own backyard. For now, the city is betting that more supply is the only way to keep prices from spiraling further.
Measure S Drama: Conflict of Interest?
You wouldn't think a tax oversight committee would be the source of high drama, but Crescent City proves us wrong. Recently, the City Council was split 4-1 over appointing Dana Reno to the Measure S Oversight Committee.
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Why the fuss?
Council member Steve Shamblin—who actually used to be on the committee himself—voted no. He argued it’s a conflict of interest because Reno is a volunteer firefighter and Measure S money literally pays for the fire department’s gear and trucks.
The City Attorney, Martha Rice, stepped in to say it’s legally fine as long as he recusals himself from specific financial votes. But it highlights a bigger issue: in a small town, everyone is wearing three different hats. It's hard to find someone who doesn't have a connection to where the money goes.
The Harbor's "Dredging Dilemma"
The Harbor District is sitting on a pile of dirt. Well, silt. They need to dredge to keep the boats moving, but where do you put the gunk?
They are currently chasing a $500,000 grant to see if they can use that dredge material for "beach enhancement" near Whaler Island. Basically, they want to see if the dirt is clean enough to help with wetland restoration instead of just dumping it. It’s a smart move if it works, but environmental groups are watching the "ecological impacts" very closely.
Cannabis Caps: The Five-Shop Limit
If you were looking to open a new dispensary in Crescent City, I’ve got bad news. The council just updated the commercial cannabis ordinance.
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- The Cap: Only five storefront retailers allowed.
- The Reality: We already have five.
- The Rule: If a shop closes for 60 days, they lose their permit.
Councilor Jason Greenough wasn't thrilled about it, arguing that the market should regulate itself. "Nobody else can come in and say, 'I want to do it better,'" he noted. But for now, the city is sticking to its guns. No more shops, and definitely no more indoor cultivation sites beyond the one we already have.
Real People, Real News
It's not all politics and dirt.
Just this week, Rose M. Tryon, a fifth-generation farmer from right here in Crescent City, was appointed to the California USDA Farm Service Agency state committee. Having a local voice at that level is huge for our beef and potato operations.
And on the artsy side, keep an eye on the Del Norte Regional Airport. Starting this month, they’re hosting a display of Tolowa Dee-Ni’ Nation posters on the second floor. It's actually a pretty cool way to spend twenty minutes if your flight is delayed (which, let’s be honest, happens).
Weather and Road Realities
Look, it’s January. The forecast for mid-January 2026 is actually looking surprisingly clear with highs near 64°F, but don't let that fool you.
The Crescent City CA news cycle is always one storm away from a road closure. High wind advisories are already hitting the Oregon state line. If you’re hauling a trailer or driving a high-profile vehicle, maybe just stay home and grab a coffee at Dutch Bros instead.
What You Should Do Next
If you actually live here or are planning to move, don't just read the headlines.
- Attend the Budget Forums: The School District (DNUSD) is holding budget meetings at 301 W. Washington Blvd. If you care about where the school money goes, show up.
- Watch the Council Livestreams: The city broadcasts on YouTube. It's the best way to see the "Measure S" style arguments in real-time without leaving your couch.
- Check Caltrans District 1: Before you head south, check the Last Chance Grade status. Even with the $40 million tunnel news, the current road is still shifting.
Crescent City is a weird, beautiful, complicated place. It’s growing up, but it’s doing it with all the growing pains you’d expect from a town tucked between the redwoods and a very angry ocean.