Bob Jones Trail Update

For over a decade, San Luis Obispo County has been working to complete the Bob Jones Trail, which would create an uninterrupted path from SLO to Avila Beach. However, the project has been stalled due to rancher Ray Bunnell, who owns land along the planned route and refuses to sell a small portion to the county. Despite widespread community support and successful negotiations with other landowners, Bunnell has remained firm in his decision. At a recent Board of Supervisors meeting, the vote to use eminent domain to acquire the land failed, largely due to a lack of unanimous support. Bunnell argues that the proposed trail location poses safety risks, including flooding and fire hazards. With a deadline looming to begin construction or lose federal funding, the county now has limited options to move forward with the trail project.