As part of a program of mobility, coastal access and environmental enhancement projects known as “Build NCC,” this integrates environmental enhancements with large-scale, regional and state infrastructure improvements, including double tracking and highway work.
Need
Located in the second busiest intercity rail corridor in the nation, double tracking alleviated a significant bottleneck in the area, and an expanded highway with 14 miles of additional HOV lanes further helps alleviate traffic. The completed project also accounts for projected future sea level rises and will ensure that lagoon wetland wildlife and vegetation flourish in the decades to come.
Work
Environmental Impacts
The project widened, deepened and straightened lagoon channels to improve tidal flow, circulation and the overall health of the San Elijo Lagoon. Restoration crews created new mudflat habitats for various wetland flora and fauna specific to the ecosystem.
Two pedestrian bridges were also constructed, creating a trail connection between the San Elijo Lagoon Nature Center in Encinitas to the Harbaugh Seaside Trails in northern Solana Beach. Additionally, 474,000 cubic yards of sand were relocated to nearby Cardiff State Beach and Fletcher Cove to replenish beaches impacted by rising sea levels and coastal erosion.
Awards
2019 District Partnering Success in Motion – Gold Level Award
North San Diego County, CA
Commuter Rail, Bridges and Highways, Parks & Public Spaces
CM/GC
2028
California Department of Transportation (Caltrans)
West
“Sometimes the environment usually ends up on the losing side of big infrastructure projects like this, but nothing could have been further from the truth with your team. We were treated as equal partners in the decision-making process and that is what makes this entire project a model for others to follow.”
Executive Director, San Elijo Lagoon Conservancy