Picture this: a historic equestrian facility on the verge of becoming another Silicon Valley casualty, rescued by passionate horse lovers who refused to let tradition trot into oblivion.

Bear Creek Stables in Los Gatos has been given a second chance at life, thanks to a determined nonprofit and a community that believes horses are more than just four-legged assets. The Midpeninsula Regional Open Space board just unanimously approved a contract extension with Friends of Bear Creek Stables, giving the nonprofit a lifeline to save this century-old equestrian gem.

A Stable Situation

The stables, which have been standing since the 1930s, were facing potential shutdown after years of neglect and bureaucratic red tape. With up to $10.5 million needed in repairs, it looked like these historic barns might become another tech parking lot. But the community said, “Neigh” to that plan.

Community to the Rescue

The nonprofit needs to raise $250,000 to secure a 12-year contract, with about $60,000 already in their saddlebags. Their mission? Not just preserving buildings, but maintaining a cherished community space that has been a second home to horse enthusiasts for generations.

Preserving a Legacy

For horse owner Ashley Byington, it’s personal. “It’s like a second family,” she says, brushing her horse Pete in a stall that has witnessed decades of equine stories. The stables aren’t just about horses, they’re about connection, tradition, and keeping a piece of Bay Area history alive in an era of constant transformation.

So here’s to Bear Creek Stables: may your hooves continue to echo through the Los Gatos mountains, reminding us that some legacies are worth fighting for.