Seaside agrees to buy 1.62-acre MST parcel in Campus Town for $270,000; developers to reimburse costs

The Seaside City Council voted Dec. 4 to acquire approximately 1.62 acres from the Monterey Salinas Transit District for $270,000 plus associated escrow and transaction costs. City Attorney Sherry Damon explained the as-is purchase and noted a deed restriction limiting future uses to transportation-oriented amenities, so the planned park will incorporate transit-related features such as parking, bus stops and electric vehicle charging.

Staff told the council the parcel was appraised at $470,000 but negotiated down because the appraisal assumed vacant land; the current site has a dilapidated building and hardscape that will require demolition. Staff estimated demolition and remediation at about $170,000 plus a $30,000 contingency, and said those costs will be covered by the campus town developers as a public-benefit contribution so there is no general-fund impact.

Councilmembers asked whether the property had been appraised (staff confirmed it had) and how demolition estimates were calculated; staff referenced recent demolition costs to support the projection. Public commenters praised the park concept and asked for trees and shade in the design. The council approved the acquisition; staff said design and demolition work will follow as part of Phase 2 for Campus Town.