El Embarcadero Enhancement Project Begins November 29

The Santa Barbara County Regional Development Agency (RDA) and Public Works Department, are scheduled to begin construction of the first phase of the El Embarcadero Enhancement Project. The project limits extend throughout the eastern portion of Isla Vista between Camino Pescadero and the University of California Santa Barbara (UCSB) on Embarcadero del Mar.

The project is funded by the Santa Barbara County Regional Redevelopment Agency (RDA). Construction cost of the Project is $1,820,431.

The El Embarcadero Enhancement Project (Phase I) includes the under grounding of overhead utility lines and the removal of existing utility poles along El Embarcadero between Anisq’ Oyo Park and Del Playa. The project also includes the removal and reconstruction of the existing curbs, gutters, sidewalks and driveway approaches on the westerly side of El Embarcadero Road, narrowing the existing pavement by 4-feet to allow for an 8-foot sidewalk that will include new street tree wells all in compliance with ADA requirements. The project also includes the installation of 950 linear feet of new storm drain pipe on Embarcadero del Mar, 950 linear feet on Embarcadero del Norte and the upgrade of 600 linear feet on El Embarcadero along with a clean water facility to remove trash and silt from entering the ocean. The final task of this phase of the project will provide the resurfacing of the streets within the project limits.

The contract for the El Embarcadero Enhancement Project (Phase I) was awarded to Granite Construction Company.

Construction is scheduled to begin November 29, 2010, and is expected to be completed by March, 2011, with construction hours scheduled from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, weather permitting. On-going utility company work will continue beyond April 2011, to remove overhead utility lines and poles on El Embarcadero. The County Public Work’s Department will administer and inspect the project.

Motorists in the area can expect traffic delays up to 10 minutes. The Department encourages the motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians to be aware of reduced speed zones and traffic controls throughout the construction site.

The Public Works Department wishes to thank the public for their patience and cooperation during the construction of this important roadway safety and improvement project.