Colorado Lagoon Open Channel Project

Construction advanced through several major milestones in August and September, including completion of culvert demolition, activation of the open channel which restored the natural tidal exchange between Colorado Lagoon and Marine Stadium/Alamitos Bay, and asphalt paving at Colorado and portions of Eliot Streets. Crews are completing permanent fencing installation (split rail and picket), soil preparation/nourishment and planting. The streets are expected to reopen in phases beginning with Colorado Street opening on Wednesday, September 30.

Roadway Improvements and Street Reopening

Sidewalk, curb, ramp, and roadway base work completed in August and early September and prepared the streets for final asphalt paving. Paving at Colorado Street and portions of Eliot Street began September 18 and continued through the following weekend and into the next week. Crews completed pavement layout markings for Traffic Engineering review, with final striping completed the week of September 25.



Street reopening will occur in phases, beginning with Colorado Street, which is expected to reopen on September 30. This will restore ingress and egress for Fire Station 14 while additional asphalt repairs along Eliot Street commence near the City’s fueling station. Repairs are also required near Eliot Street at the concrete bike path at 3rd Street and Paoli due to damage from the temporary routing of emergency vehicles. Eliot Street is expected to reopen after these repairs are completed and field offices, trailers, and equipment are demobilized.

Please note recent comments from the County Sanitation district require adjustments to the manholes, requiring concrete collars around lids. Steel plates are required to cover areas where adjustments are needed. To facilitate this work, temporary traffic controls would be implemented to complete this work.

Open Channel and Restoration of Tidal Exchange

In August, crews completed demolition of the former box culvert following the July 2026 hydraulic shutdown between the Alamitos Bay and Colorado Lagoon. During this time crews deployed aerators and consultants monitored water quality to ensure the hydraulic shutdown did not impact the Lagoon. After the culvert was demolished and removed, crews also completed demolition of the old wing walls and performed final slope grading and installed riprap to protect against scour.

After the original culvert was demolished, cranes were mobilized at Larry Curtis Park and Alamitos Heights Park to help remove sheet piles which were installed in 2023 to manage tidal flows as necessary to enable the bridge construction to be conducted in the dry. By the week ending August 21, initial piles were removed at Eliot Street activating the open channel, reaching a major milestone toward the vision outlined in the 2005 Master Restoration Plan. By early September all sheetpile segments (except one which is damaged) had been removed allowing the crane to demobilize.

Following SCE’s cancellation of the scheduled high-voltage transmission line outages in August, the contractor coordinated with SCE and the crane operator to implement alternative safety measures. These measures allowed sheet pile removal near the Colorado Street bridge to begin August 31 during normal working hours, eliminating the need for the transmission line outage and overnight work.

Crews continued installation of crushed aggregate base and fine graded Colorado Street bringing the areas to subgrade as shown in the photo above. Installation of new curbs and gutters continued from Orlena Avenue to Colorado Street as pictured. Work along Orlena continues with subgrade compaction in preparation for sidewalk pours.

In mid-June, crews are expected to begin sewer siphon repair work, followed by inspection, testing, and commissioning. The sewer siphon repair consists of installation of a new CIPP liner within the full run of the VCP piping, as required by the County. Successful commissioning will allow the temporary sewer system, or sewer bypass, to be removed. Work associated with this activity is expected to be completed this month.

Critical work required to establish the open channel is expected to begin in mid-June. Before tidal flows can be rerouted, there are several phased and monitored activities associated with this work including fish exclusion/rescue, final shut down of the culvert, removal of marine growth and sediment from the culvert, culvert demolition, and final grading and earthwork. Some of these activities were previously conducted in 2009 as part of the Phase 1 Colorado Lagoon Restoration, and most recently, when the diversion channel was established at Eliot Street as required for the Eliot bridge construction. Please note, marine growth and sediment are typically submerged and natural decomposition processes produce odors that can be carried by wind when marine growth and sediment are exposed to air. As the underlying goal of this restoration project is to decommission the culvert and transition to an open earthen channel for hydraulic connectivity, the demolition of the culvert is a critical step. Temporary odors are expected to occur during these activities and are expected to vary with weather and wind conditions. Odors are anticipated to decrease as culvert demolition activities progress. Environmental monitoring at the Lagoon will continue during these activities.

In anticipation of this critical work to transition the hydraulics of the Lagoon, aerators will be deployed at the Colorado Lagoon beginning the week of June 8, to maintain dissolved oxygen levels in the lagoon. It is important to note that during the final culvert shutdown, the Lagoon will be temporarily disconnected from Alamitos Bay making the culvert demolition and the transition to the open channel waterway activation time-critical work. As such, crews will be working extended hours and over the weekend to reconnect the Lagoon to Marine Stadium, as soon as feasible, to ensure the water quality and ecological health of the Lagoon is maintained. The Contractor is deploying additional resources to expedite this work and minimize any nuisances associated with this activity.

In early June, the Contractor will begin soil offhaul and disposal of excess fill materials generated from the channel excavation process. The open channel work has been graded to extent possible until culvert demolition is completed (see photo) allowing other areas of the channel footprint to be accessed by equipment. Following completion of soil export and disposal, site preparation for landscaping will begin. Installation of irrigation lines, followed by soil amendment, nourishment and leeching are required in anticipation of landscaping work.

Along the east end of Marina Vista Park, adjacent to the playground, irrigation upgrades were installed to connect the new and existing irrigation systems and improve the performance of the legacy system. The bulk of work has been completed with minor work wrapping up by the first week of June (see photo). Seeding/sod installation are to follow.

Sod installation is now complete at Marina Vista Park. Please note sod surface layers have sand from the nursery, contributing to the tint and discoloration that is seen in photos, and is expected to pass through with continual irrigation. Trees and shrubs have been installed at various locations east of the open channel. The field at Marina Vista Park will be open to the public in late July 2026, after the completion of the sod establishment period.


Photo above: Colorado Street bridge and street brought to subgrade


Photo Above: Crews extend sidewalk and gutter construction onto Colorado Street


Photo Above: Grading of open channel and preparation for soil offhaul and disposal


Photo Above: Marina Vista Park East rrigation upgrade

Throughout late February and early March, the project team made significant progress on underground utility infrastructure and site preparation activities near the Colorado Street Bridge and Marina Vista Park.

Installation of the new sewer siphon system was completed, including full encasement of the sewer lines with Controlled Low-Strength Material (CLSM) for protection. With this work complete, crews began backfilling deeper excavation areas and removing the associated shoring systems as site elevations are restored and approach the final roadway elevations. The sewer inlet structure connecting the double-barrel siphon to the existing sewer system was constructed during this period, and work is nearing completion on the associated sewer outlet structure.

Construction of the required sewer airline system also began and will continue into March. Once installation is complete, the new sewer system will undergo pressure testing and camera inspections. Following acceptance of the system by the County, the temporary sewer bypass currently in use will be decommissioned.

Additional underground utility work continued throughout the project area. Crews advanced installation and backfilling of Storm Drain Line “C” east of the bridge and Storm Drain Line “A” west of the bridge, along with segments of reclaimed water and water lines. As backfill progressed, crews continued compacting soils and preparing areas for future utility installation and roadway construction.

Work also continued to bring the Colorado Street corridor and surrounding areas closer to final roadway elevations. Backfill and compaction activities advanced on both sides of the Colorado Street Bridge, which was constructed approximately six feet above the original roadway elevation as part of the project design. Fine grading for roadway subgrade near the intersection of Colorado Street and Orlena Avenue is expected to begin in mid-March, followed by curb and gutter installation.

At Marina Vista Park, soil amendment work was completed earlier this winter to prepare the site for landscaping. Rainfalls from January and February have assisted with the leaching and incorporation of soil nutrients, and recent soil testing confirmed that conditions are suitable for planting. Planting materials are expected to arrive onsite soon, with installation of trees and shrubs anticipated first, followed by sod installation to avoid damage to the turf areas.

The City appreciates the continued interest and engagement from the community as construction near the completion for the final phase of the Colorado Lagoon Restoration.

Photo above: Backfill activities to bring Colorado Street closer to subgrade continues



Photo above: Backfill activities east of bridge structure


Photo above: Photos of crews removing slide rail shoring system.


Photo above: Crews performing compaction in preparation of utility line installation


Photo above: On-going backfill against the Colorado Street Bridge to bring site closer to street subgrade.


Photo above: Double-barrel sewer siphon installation by construction crews.


Photo above: Formwork completed and concrete poured for new inlet structure


Photo above: Backfill activities to bring Colorado Street closer to subgrade is on-going


Photo above: Progress image showing most of shoring systems removed, the sewer siphon backfilled, and limited slide-rail systems adjacent to the east side of the bridge, where compaction and backfill activities are ongoing


Photo above: Additional segments of water lines and backfill; additional backfill necessary to meet required roadway elevations


Photo above: Before and after backfill of storm drain infrastructure between December 2025 and March 2026.


Photo above: Forming of new sewer outlet structure and making the new connections

The project completed the demolition and removal of two 7-ft diameter Corrugated Metal Pipe(s) (CMP's) impeding the path of the sewer siphon installation. This included installing four new bulkheads at either end of the demolition in order to control water and safely remove the pipes and continue with work.  These (2) 7-ft diameter pipes are believed to have been the original culverts that provided the hydraulic connection between the Lagoon and Alamitos Bay before the development of Marina Vista Park but after Colorado Street was initially constructed.  Now that the CMP’s have been removed, excavation and pipe installation for the west sewer siphon has continued.  Pictured below are images of the crews spreading gravel and installing filter fabric to implement a construction “burrito” to address softer soils and create a stable base prior to the placement of the next sewer siphon run.

Photo above: CMP's dewatered and stabilized.

Photo above: Installation of burrito and preparation for additional VCP/siphon laydown

Utilities are the primary driver of the construction schedule for the project.  Delays in the sewer siphon have impacted the critical path and were attributed to encountering legacy systems, challenges with shoring systems, changes in system requirements from inspectors, changes in design from Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJ), and impacts from weather delays and other unforeseen issues.

City staff have been asked why the backfill and utility installation work appear to be starting and stopping throughout the job.  Various utilities located within the street are layered and installed at various elevations.  The typical sequence of work is to excavate and install the deepest utility first (i.e. the sewer siphon), followed by the backfilling and compacting of soils above it.  As another elevation is reached through backfilling or even demolition (e.g. removing elements out of the way such as the existing culvert), another utility system or portions thereof, can then be installed.  These other utility systems include storm drain boxes, lines, inlets or manholes (see graphic below) or water lines.  More recently, the contractor has excavated shallower trenches through the compacted soils to install shallower water lines where possible. However, the remainder of these utilities cannot be fully installed until the backfill areas are further progressed.  Additionally, where possible or reachable, construction crews have also made repairs to the existing sewer piping, ensuring new and old systems are in good condition.

Lastly, the neighborhood is being supported by temporary utility systems or bypasses (sewer, water, recycled water).  In order to backfill the roadways and restore streets, all permanent utility systems at multiple elevations have to be fully constructed, tested, and accepted by the AHJ’s before the decommissioning of the bypass systems can begin.

Graphic above: Pending utility installation

Towards the end of January, another round of soil amendments and weed treatment began.  The project team is closely tracking soil metrics such as organics, calcium, pH, salinity and others, in order to achieve optimum topsoil conditions for sod establishment and longevity.  See photos of additional amendments which were applied and tilled into the top 2 inches of topsoil.

Photo above: Soil amendments

The project team understands the impacts to the neighborhood and larger district and thanks everyone for their continued support and patience as the team works to deliver the fourth and final phase of a multi-phased restoration effort that began well over 20 years ago.  The project team is aiming to open roadways in Summer 2026.

In December, construction on the Colorado Street Bridge continued. Crews completed the bridge deck (top of bridge), bridge sidewalk, and installed Caltran’s barriers to assist with motorist protections. The site requires major excavations and the use of backfill strategically in other locations to meet design requirements and before work can begin. Currently, crews are backfilling against the eastern half of the bridge structure to bring the site closer to subgrade (see photo).

On Colorado Street, the contractor continues to work on the installation of several storm drain lines throughout the area and remove encountered underground structures such as the demolition of two (2) 84-in corrugated metal pipes (CMP) in order to complete the siphon (see photo). The excavation and installation of the sewer siphon system will progress to the west once the CMP structures have been completed removed. The installation of the “airline” for the sewer siphon, 12-in domestic, and 6-in reclaimed waterlines are projected to begin this month and will allow for the decommission of temporary systems.

This quarter, the project also expects to begin critical and time sensitive work to decommission the culvert and activate the open waterway. This would prompt a closure of the Colorado Lagoon, the City expects crews to work extended windows to minimize risk to aquatic habitats. The Colorado Lagoon project is currently experiencing delays. Weather and unforeseen conditions including additional asbestos containing transite pipe discoveries, and changes in requirements from utility owners are expected to impact the overall schedule. These details are currently under review by the City’s Project and Construction Management Team and more information will be shared at a future update after a complete assessment of the cumulative weather impacts, unforeseen conditions, and changes to project requirements are analyzed.


Arial of Colorado Street – Installation of storm drain lines underway to the east of the bridge. Sidewalk placed across the bridge and rebar installed for the Caltran’s barriers. Sewer siphon installation in progress to the west of the bridge.


Bridge Structure – Backfill against the east side of the bridge structure in progress


Storm water pollution prevention in place across the site in preparation of the rain covering storm drain lines and sewer lines


Demolition of the 84 inch corrugated metal pipes in progress

Construction on the Colorado Street Bridge has progressed significantly. Crews completed the bridge’s vertical walls in October, and began to install the formwork and rebar for the bridge deck (top of bridge) and adjacent sidewalks. The concrete pour for the bridge deck was completed in early November and additional pours remaining. On-going bridge work, which remains, includes installation of the vehicular safety barriers at the edges of the bridges.

The second phase of the sewer siphon installation (west of bridge) is also on-going. To accomplish this work, the contractor continues installing shoring systems and excavating soils, as needed, to reach sub-grade elevations to install additional sewer line segments. The east sewer siphon run was covered with CSLM, backfilled, and connects to a new 84-inch inlet structure and manhole.

Marina Vista Park soils have not achieved the soil salinity conditions required by the project plans for sod installation. The City’s priority is to ensure the best conditions for sod installation to maintain a high-quality field. As such, the contractor is required to continue soil leaching to remove excess salinity and the contractor is anticipated to perform additional treatments and soil amendments. A multi-month sod establishment period is planned to help the turf thrive before project turnover.

Various utilities including storm drains and electrical installations are progressing towards completion. The contractor is working on storm drain lines and manholes around the bridge at Colorado Street and Orlena Avenue. New electrical pedestals have been installed, some of which will support maintenance systems like booster pumps to irrigate the fields.

Traffic and Pedestrian Access
Road closures remain in effect and are expected to continue through early 2026. Colorado Street and Eliot Street construction zones are closed to all vehicle traffic.

A temporary pedestrian path is open and accessible via:

• The Eliot Street bridge sidewalk from the Marina Vista Park bike path (adjacent to the tennis courts)
• The sidewalk near Paoli Way/Appian Way & 3rd Street

Please follow all detour notices and signs.


Colorado Street bridge and shoring systems to the west and the Colorado Lagoon.


Shoring system to facilitate installation of subgrade sewer siphon.


Aerial view of east sewer siphon areas backfilled; new inlet structure completed; storm drain lines in progress.


Aerial view of early November backfill activities.

The second phase of the sewer siphon installation is currently under construction. The work consists of installing approximately 340 linear feet of piping in both directions from the Colorado Street bridge and connecting to a set of newly constructed 84-inch manholes.

Work on the Colorado Street bridge is progressing. The bridge’s bottom structure has been placed, and crews are currently working on the formwork and rebar for the bridge’s vertical walls. Concrete pours are expected to continue and occur through October 2025.

Additional leaching and amendment of soils will occur at Marina Vista Park to reach favorable salinity levels required for healthy sod establishment. Salt leaching and necessary soil amendments are expected to continue at Marina Vista Park to ensure the soil is suitable for sod establishment. A multi-month sod establishment period is planned to help the turf thrive before project turnover.

Traffic and Pedestrian Access

Road closures remain in effect and are expected to continue through early 2026. Colorado Street and Eliot Street construction zones are closed to all vehicle traffic.

A temporary pedestrian path is open and accessible via:

• The Eliot Street bridge sidewalk from the Marina Vista Park bike path (adjacent to the tennis courts)

• The sidewalk near Paoli Way/Appian Way & 3rd Street

Please follow all detour notices and signs.

Phase 2 Sewer Siphon Installation - Continue with excavation and installation of pipe.


Aerial view - Both RCB construction underway and second phase of sewer siphon installation.


Colorado Street bridge - Slurry seal placement over backfill and sewer siphon installation.


Colorado Street Bridge - Rebar installation for bottom of RCB structure.


Colorado Street Bridge - Placed concrete invert (bottom of RCB structure).


Colorado Street Bridge - Installing rebar and formwork for vertical walls of the box culvert structure.

The construction team has completed the first phase of the sewer siphon installation along Colorado Street. Two 42-inch reinforced concrete pipes (RCP) were installed in parallel, with a 24-inch vitrified clay pipe (VCP) placed inside each of the RCPs and grouted in place. This initial installation totaled 140 linear feet. By early September, the work was complete, and the area backfilled to subgrade, allowing construction of the Colorado Street bridge to begin.

Please note that road closures remain in effect and are expected to continue through early 2026. Colorado Street and Eliot Street construction zones are closed to all traffic. A temporary pedestrian path is open and can be accessed from the Eliot Street bridge sidewalk from the Marina Vista Park bike path (adjacent to the tennis courts) and the sidewalk near Paoli Way/Appian Way & 3rd St. Please pay attention to detour notices and signs. 

Phase 1 Sewer Siphon Installation – CSLM placement

Phase 1 Sewer Siphon Installation – Backfill

 

Phase 1 Sewer Siphon Installation – Removing shoring

Phase 1 Sewer Siphon Installation – Aerial View

Colorado Street Bridge – subgrade preparation

 

Storm Drain Work

Thank you for respecting all users of the shared path at Eliot Street. The Colorado Lagoon remains open for recreation. For the latest recreational water monitoring results at Colorado Lagoon, please refer to the Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services, Bureau of Environmental Health website.

As a reminder, past presentations and other documents are available at the bottom of this page.

A. General Update


Aerial photo of the project area

B. Colorado Street – WORK ON-GOING

The construction team has completed the first phase of deep excavations and trenching along Colorado Street, using a slide-and-rail shoring system for structural support. With excavations complete, crews lowered equipment to install a double-barrel sewer siphon system. 

To accomplish this phase of work, the contractor used jack-and-bore equipment to push steel and concrete pipes horizontally through the lowest sections of the project area (see photos below). This method was selected to be able to install the siphon beneath an existing underground box culvert, which must remain protected and operational until both bridges and the open channel waterway are completed. The culvert currently serves as the only hydraulic connection between the lagoon and Alamitos Bay.

The installation of the deepest portions of the sewer siphon marks a key milestone in the project. Numerous rounds of review with regulatory agencies were required to approve the siphon installation method, shoring system, and materials. Installation of sewer piping and the siphon in the vicinity of the future bridge structure is expected to continue for another two months. The completion of the sewer siphon, along with the placement of sewer lines in the cross section of the future Colorado Street bridge, will allow this area to be backfilled in preparation for concurrent bridge construction to resume. During this time, contractors will backfill, compact, and obtain approvals from the County Sanitation District as they progress on the work. As each sewer segment is completed and backfilled, crews will proceed with the next set of additional deep excavations along Colorado Street, installing piping horizontally, and gradually working their installation towards shallower depths.

Various stages of jack and bore operation

 One side of a double-barrel sewer siphon

C. Marina Vista Park – WORK ON-GOING

Construction crews have begun installing storm drain lateral lines that connect to the main drainage system. At Marina Vista Park, new irrigation lines have been installed, rough grading is complete, and sand and topsoil have been placed in preparation for final topsoil work (see photos below). The remaining work at Marina Vista Park includes amending the topsoil, now spread across the site, and salt leeching to reduce salt concentrations before sod installation. This leaching process is expected to take five to six weeks. Combined with a modernized irrigation system, it will help the future turf establish and thrive.

Storm drain lateral lines and manhole

Completed sand and topsoil installation in preparation for sod

D. Road Closures – REMAIN IN EFFECT AND EXTENDED

Road closures remain in effect and are expected to continue through early 2026. Colorado Street and Eliot Street construction zones are closed to all traffic. A temporary pedestrian path is open and can be accessed from Eliot St bridge sidewalk from the Marina Vista Park bike path (adjacent to the tennis courts) and the sidewalk near Paoli Way/Appian Way & 3rd St. Please pay attention to detour notices and signs.

A. General Update


Aerial photo of project area

B. Colorado Street – WORK ON-GOING

A temporary sewer bypass was previously installed, commissioned, and continues to maintain sewer service while the new sewer siphon that will cross under the future open channel is being constructed. Additional utility work includes extension of a water line bypass and installation of storm drain catch basins and laterals at the ends of Colorado Street and Orlena.

The sewer siphon is being constructed over 20 ft below Colorado Street and will pass beneath the future open channel and bridge to avoid conflicts with existing and relocated infrastructure, the sewer siphon installation is shallower as it moves away from the bridge and connects to existing.

Several utilities have already been relocated in this area, additional utilities have been temporarily relocated, and some utilities will be permanently relocated to the utility structure, overhead or underground. Utility work is expected to continue for multiple months and must be completed in planned sequence to ensure utility services are not disrupted. Additional abatement activities associated with utility relocation and earthwork may occur as needed in accordance with regulatory requirements. 


Colorado Street: deep excavation for sewer siphon installation

C. Eliot Street – WORK ON-GOING

Sidewalk, storm drain and bridge work has been completed at Eliot Street. Initial pavement has been placed to protect the construction in place and provide space for material staging while Marina Vista Park is under construction and additional excavation occurs along Colorado Street. Final paving will be completed concurrently with Colorado Street paving.


Eliot Street paved

In coordination with Fire Station 14 reopening in February, storm drain and roadway construction was completed in front of the Fire Station. Similar to the beginning of the project, Fire Station utilizes the 3rd Street detour for emergency vehicle access. Beyond the fire station, retaining walls and look out points have been constructed for the future open channel.


Eliot Street: retaining wall and street completed in front of Fire Station 14

D. Marina Vista Park – WORK ON-GOING

Earthwork has progressed and the majority of Marina Vista Park has reached subgrade. The baseball backstop, pads for picnic tables, and connecting path from the dugout to Marine Drive have been installed. Other activities include continuing installation of irrigation lines, installation of the infield for the new ballfield, and rough grading. Remaining activities for Marina Vista Park include completing the irrigation system and amending soils to reduce the concentration of salt in the final surfaces. In combination with an upgraded and more modern irrigation system, this salt leeching process will help the future grass establish and grow successfully.


Concurrently, work around the open channel footprint continues. The pedestrian path and adjacent bioswales have been established. The future open channel area has been dewatered to facilitate final grading.


Marina Vista Park: Over-excavation of the open channel has been completed and backfilling has begun to reach subgrade level

E. Road Closures – REMAIN IN EFFECT AND EXTENDED

Road closures remain in effect and are expected to continue through 2026. Colorado Street and Eliot Street construction zones are closed to all traffic. A temporary pedestrian path is open and can be accessed from Eliot St bridge sidewalk from the Marina Vista Park bike path (adjacent to the tennis courts) and the sidewalk near Paoli Way/Appian Way & 3rd St. Please pay attention to detour notices and signs.

A. General Update
The Public Works team hosted a community meeting on Thursday, Feb. 13, 2025 with updates on the project. Click here to review the presentation that was shared.

As a reminder, past presentations and other documents are available at the bottom of this page.



B. Colorado Street – Work On-going

A temporary sewer bypass was constructed to maintain sewer service while the existing line is demolished so that a new sewer can be constructed beneath the future Colorado Street Bridge. Electrical service lines were extended across Colorado Street for new irrigation systems at Marina Vista Park. Additional utility work includes storm drain construction.

Several utilities have already been relocated in this area, additional utilities will be temporarily relocated and some utilities will be permanently relocated to the utility structure, overhead or underground. Utility work is expected to continue for multiple months and must be completed in planned sequence to ensure utility services are not disrupted. Additional abatement activities associated with utility relocation and earthwork may occur as needed in accordance with regulatory requirements.


Colorado Street: completed sewer bypass installation


Colorado Street: starting storm drain installation on Orlena and ends of Colorado Street


Colorado Street: electrical service for new irrigation system

C. Eliot Street – WORK ON-GOING
Sidewalk, storm drain and bridge work has been completed at Eliot Street. The roadway has been prepared for initial paving. This will protect the construction in place and provide space for material staging while Marina Vista Park is under construction and additional excavation occurring along Colorado Street.
In coordination with Fire Station 14’s reopening in February, new storm drain installation and pavement has been completed in front of the Fire Station. Similar to the beginning of the project, the Fire Station will temporarily utilize the 3rd Street detour once reopened until Eliot Street is open to traffic.


Eliot Street: new sidewalk installed and roadway prepped for initial pavement


Eliot Street: asphalt in front of Fire Station 14 in support of the February 2025 opening

D. Marina Vista Park – WORK ON-GOING

Earthwork has progressed and most of Marina Vista Park has reached rough grade. The baseball backstop, pads for picnic tables and connecting path from the dugout to the Marine Drive path have been installed. Irrigation work has begun and next steps include topsoil and sod installation.


Marina Vista Park: baseball backstop, pads for picnic tables and connecting path installed


Marina Vista Park: preparatory work for a new path between Marina Vista Park and the Open Channel has begun


E. Road Closures – REMAIN IN EFFECT AND EXTENDED

Road closures remain in effect and are expected to continue through 2026. Colorado Street and Eliot Street construction zones are closed to all traffic. A temporary pedestrian path is open and can be accessed from Eliot St bridge sidewalk from the Marina Vista Park bike path (adjacent to the tennis courts) and the sidewalk near Paoli Way/Appian Way & 3rd St. Please pay attention to detour notices and signs.

October 21, 2024 Update: The temporary pedestrian path connecting Colorado St and Eliot St will be rerouted to the Eliot St bridge sidewalk in the next two weeks. Once rerouted, pedestrians will access the Eliot St bridge sidewalk from the Marina Vista Park bike path (adjacent to the tennis courts) and the sidewalk near Paoli Way/Appian Way & 3rd St. Please pay attention to detour notices and signs.

A. General Update

Construction reached an important milestone over the past month - tidal exchange was rerouted from the temporary diversion channel at Marine Stadium to the new Eliot Street Bridge channel! Remaining portions of the existing culvert near Colorado Lagoon continue to provide tidal exchange while Colorado Street bridge channel construction continues.

The temporary pedestrian path is anticipated to be rerouted between September and October as channel construction progresses. Notices will be posted at the current temporary path location once a date has been confirmed.

It has been a great summer to swim at the lagoon - for the latest recreational water monitoring results at Colorado Lagoon, please refer to the Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services, Bureau of Environmental Health website: longbeach.gov/health/inspections-and-reporting/inspections/recreational-water-samples.

As a reminder, past presentations and other documents are available at the bottom of the page, you can view and download the June 12 Colorado Lagoon presentation, and an updated Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document.

B. Colorado Street Bridge Construction – WORK ON-GOING

• Construction of the south wing walls and south invert is nearing completion. Additional utility relocation work is planned to clear the way for the Colorado Street bridge and channel. Several utilities have already been relocated in this area, additional utilities will be temporarily relocated, and some utilities will be permanently relocated to the utility structure, overhead, or underground. Utility work is expected to continue for multiple months and must be completed in planned sequence to ensure utility services are not disrupted.  

C. Eliot Street Bridge Construction – WORK ON-GOING

• The diversion channel for the existing underground box culvert was rerouted through the new bridge structure so that road work can continue on both sides of the bridge. Work planned at Eliot Street includes grading, utility installation, roadway and sidewalk placement.

Eliot Street: Bridge channel during construction, Tidal flow rerouted through bridge channel

D. Marina Vista Park – WORK ON-GOING

•   Earthwork is still in progress at Marina Vista Park. Excess soils have been hauled offsite and some stockpiles remain for future use. Work planned includes grading, irrigation pipe and power conduit installation.
  

E. Excavation, Stockpiling, Export – WORK ONGOING

•   Soils from earthwork activities including excavation of the bridge and open channel are stockpiled and reused depending on soil characteristics to support conditions for habitat restoration, road and bridge backfill, and turf establishment. Excess soils are hauled offsite. These earthwork activities will be ongoing through the project duration. Additional abatement activities associated with utility relocation and demolition may occur as-needed in accordance with regulatory requirements.

F. Road Closures – REMAIN IN EFFECT AND EXTENDED

•  GENERAL UPDATE: Road closures remain in effect and are expected to continue through early 2025. Colorado Street and Eliot Street construction zones are closed to all traffic. A temporary pedestrian path is open and can be accessed from Colorado Street near Panama Ave and Eliot Street near 3rd St.

Please see the "More Information" section at the bottom of this webpage for additional information.

As reported in the July-August update and June Community meeting, the diversion channel for the existing underground box culvert is being re-routed through the new Eliot St. bridge structure. Before tidal flows can be rerouted, there are several phased and monitored activities associated with this work including fish exclusion, temporary closure of the culvert, removal of marine growth and sediment from the culvert, demolition, and earthwork. Removal of marine growth and sediment in the culvert was conducted during Phase 1 of lagoon restoration and also when the diversion channel was established at Eliot Street for this phase. Marine growth and sediment are typically submerged; natural decomposition processes produce odors that can be carried by wind when marine growth and sediment are exposed to air. Temporary odors during these activities are typical and can vary with weather conditions. Odors are anticipated to decrease as current culvert demolition activities progress. Environmental monitoring at the lagoon continues during these activities.

For the latest recreational water monitoring results at Colorado Lagoon, please refer to the Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services, Bureau of Environmental Health website: https://www.longbeach.gov/health/inspections-and-reporting/inspections/recreational-water-samples/

Updates: July - August 2024

A. General Update

Thank you for joining us at the Colorado Lagoon Open Channel Virtual Meeting on June 12th! The project team presented the status of the project, shared key highlights and upcoming milestones, and addressed Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) from residents and the community.

If you missed the meeting, you can view and download the June 12 Colorado Lagoon presentation, and an updated Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document.

B. Colorado Street Bridge Construction – WORK ON-GOING

• JULY - AUGUST UPDATE: Work expected in July and August includes construction of the south wing walls, south invert, and additional utility relocation to allow construction of the Reinforced Concrete Box Bridge structure. Several utilities have already been relocated in this area, additional utilities will be temporarily relocated, and some utilities will be permanently relocated to the utility structure, overhead, or underground. Utility work is expected to continue for multiple months and must be completed in planned sequence to ensure utility services are not disrupted.  
  

Colorado Street: Completed Utility Structure

C. Eliot Street Bridge Construction – WORK ON-GOING

• JULY - AUGUST UPDATE: Work expected in July and August includes construction of the bridge deck that will carry Eliot Street. Bridge deck work includes sidewalks, bike lanes, road base, barriers, and handrails. The diversion channel for the existing underground box culvert will be re-routed through the new bridge structure so that road work can continue on both sides of the bridge. Re-routing the diversion channel is phased and monitored to ensure the hydraulic connection and water quality at the Lagoon and Alamitos Bay is maintained during construction.

Eliot Street: Aerial view of bridge structure progress - ground level view of completed wing walls

D. Marina Vista Park – WORK ON-GOING

•  JULY - AUGUST UPDATE: Work expected in July and August includes beginning construction of Marina Vista Park. Subgrade will be established to enable irrigation work to begin. Additional activities include rough-in for power and installation of the baseball field backstop.
  

E. Excavation, Stockpiling, Export – WORK ONGOING

•  JULY - AUGUST UPDATE: Soils from earthwork activities including excavation of the bridge and open channel are stockpiled and reused depending on soil characteristics to support conditions for habitat restoration, road and bridge backfill, and turf establishment. Excess soils are hauled offsite. These earthwork activities will be ongoing through the project duration. Additional abatement activities associated with utility relocation and demolition may occur as-needed in accordance with regulatory requirements.

F. Road Closures – REMAIN IN EFFECT AND EXTENDED

•  GENERAL UPDATE: Road closures remain in effect and are expected to continue through early 2025. Colorado Street and Eliot Street construction zones are closed to all traffic. A temporary pedestrian path is open and can be accessed from Colorado Street near Panama Ave and Eliot Street near 3rd St.

Please see the "More Information" section at the bottom of this webpage for additional information.

Thank you for joining us at the Colorado Lagoon Open Channel Virtual Meeting on June 12th! The project team presented the status of the project, shared key highlights and upcoming milestones, and addressed Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) from residents and the community.

If you missed the meeting, you can view and download the June 12 Colorado Lagoon presentation. To view the previous FAQ, please visit the More Information section of this project page.  Please check back soon as we are working to update the current FAQs that address the most recent project inquiries we have received.

A. General Update

A Community Meeting is tentatively planned for June 2024, details will be posted on the project website. A Frequently Asked Questions link has been added to the project website, you can check it out here.

B. Colorado Street Bridge Construction – WORK ON-GOING

• MAY - JUNE UPDATE: Work expected in May and June includes additional utility relocation to allow construction of the remaining portions of the bridge. Additional utilities will be temporarily relocated and some utilities will be permanently relocated to the utility structure, overhead, or underground.  Utility work is expected to continue for multiple months and must be completed in planned sequence to ensure utility services are not disrupted.  

Colorado Street: Completed Utility Structure.


C. Eliot Street Bridge Construction – WORK ON-GOING

• MAY - JUNE UPDATE: Work expected in May and June includes completing the Reinforced Concrete Box (RCB) structure that will carry Eliot Street. This includes pouring the bridge deck and wing walls so that street construction work can begin. The diversion channel for the existing underground box culvert remains in service at Eliot Street, this temporary structure maintains the hydraulic connection between the Lagoon and Alamitos Bay (see earlier updates).

Eliot Street: Rebar and form work for upcoming concrete pours at the deck and wing walls.

D. Excavation, Stockpiling, Export – WORK ON-GOING

•  MAY - JUNE UPDATE: Soils from earthwork activities including excavation for the bridge foundations and open channel are currently stockpiled on site and some export activities began in April. These export activities will increase in May and June. During these activities additional abatement work will continue as-need for removal and handling of asbestos containing materials from old utility lines in accordance with regulatory requirements. Additional excavation and earthwork will continue throughout the project as the work progresses, the next steps in excavation and export activities will allow irrigation work to begin in Marina Vista Park. 

E. Road Closures – REMAIN IN EFFECT AND EXTENDED

•  GENERAL UPDATE: Road closures remain in effect and are expected to continue through 2024. Colorado Street and Eliot Street construction zones are closed to all traffic. A temporary pedestrian path is open and can be accessed from Colorado Street near Panama Ave and Eliot Street near 3^rd St.

For monthly newsletter updates, please see the "More Information" section at the bottom of this webpage.

A. Colorado Street Bridge Construction – WORK ON-GOING

o MAR - APR UPDATE: Work expected in March and April includes the completion of the utility bridge structure and installation of supporting wing walls. Additionally, temporary utilities which are currently in service will be relocated permanently to the utility bridge structure. Utility work is anticipated to continue for multiple months.

Colorado Street: Completed Utility Bridge Structure and construction of wing walls continues

B. Eliot Street Bridge Construction – WORK ON-GOING
MAR-APR UPDATE: Work expected in March and April includes continued construction of the Eliot Street Reinforced Concrete Box (RCB) bridge and supporting wing walls. At Eliot Street, a portion of the existing underground box culvert has been demolished to facilitate construction of the Eliot Street RCB bridge. Temporary structures continue to maintain the hydraulic connection between the Lagoon and Alamitos Bay (see earlier updates).

Eliot Street: Concrete invert (bottom of RCB) has been poured and construction of RCB walls continues


C. Excavation, Stockpiling, Export – WORK ON-GOING

o MAR-APR UPDATE: Soils from earthwork activities including excavation for the bridge foundations and open channel are currently stockpiled on site and planned for export in April. Abatement activities continue for removal and handling of asbestos containing materials from old utility lines in accordance with regulatory requirements. Additional excavation and earthwork is expected to continue throughout the project as the work progresses.

D. Road Closures – REMAIN IN EFFECT AND EXTENDED

• GENERAL UPDATE: Due to construction delays, road closures remain in effect and are expected to continue through 2024. The City is working with the Contractor on an updated schedule, which may include resequencing certain aspects of work to help facilitate the reopening of streets.

1. Colorado and Eliot Street Bridge Construction – WORK ON-GOING
   • JANUARY - FEBRUARY UPDATE: Work expected in January and February includes the continued construction of the utility bridge structure along Colorado Street, as well as the Eliot Street Reinforced Concrete Box (RCB) Bridge. Once the Colorado Street utility bridge is completed and operational, temporary utilities which are currently in service, will be relocated permanently to the structure and construction of the Colorado Street vehicular bridge can begin. At Eliot Street, a portion of the existing underground box culvert has been demolished to facilitate the construction of the Eliot Street RCB Bridge. Temporary structures have been installed to help maintain the hydraulic connection between the Lagoon to Alamitos Bay (see earlier updates).
     

     
     Colorado Street: Forming "walls" of utility bridge

     
     Eliot Street: Demo'd existing box culvert and at subgrade for new RCB

2. Excavation, Stockpiling, Export - WORK ON-GOING
   • JANUARY - FEBRUARY UPDATE: Soils resulting from earthwork activities such as excavation for the bridge foundation construction is currently stockpiled on site and awaiting disposal pending results of required landfill testing.  Soils are expected to be hauled off in March and April of this year.  Additional excavation and earthwork is expected to continue throughout the project as the work progresses.

3. ADDITIONAL SHORING INSTALLATION AT COLORADO STREET - WORK PENDING

   • JANUARY - FEBRUARY UPDATE: Additional shorings is expected to accommodate a redesign associated with the County Sanitation District's sewer siphon.  This work is slated to occur in early 2024.  During this time, the public is expected to feel some moderate vibrations and sound resulting from the pile installation methods (vibratory hammer). 
4. Road Closures - REMAIN IN EFFECT AND EXTENDED
   • GENERAL UPDATE – Due to construction delays, road closures remain in effect and are expected to last after summer 2024.  The City is working with the Contractor on an updated schedule, which may include re-sequencing certain aspects of work to help facilitate the reopening of streets. 

For monthly newsletter updates, please see the "More Information" section at the bottom of this webpage.

The City of Long Beach hosted a virtual community meeting on Wednesday, December 13, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. to provide recent updates on the Colorado Lagoon Open Channel Project. See the following to view the December 13 Colorado Lagoon Presentation.

1. Excavation, Stockpiling, and Fill Work – WORK ON-GOING
   • Excavation along the future footprint of the open channel commenced in July 2023, but excavation across other parts of the site will continue as room is made for the bridge construction. Fill material here is consists of a mix of debris, soil, and topsoil, and the contractor will continue the separation of materials for reuse or disposal. Soil excavated from this footprint was used to backfill the prisms noted above, and debris will be off-hauled to a landfill.
   • NOV-DEC UPDATE: Work expected in November and December includes excavating and constructing the utility bridge structure along Colorado Street. This includes subgrade excavation, new foundation work which will consist of installing rebar, and pouring concrete. Once the utility bridge is completed and operational, temporary utilities currently in service will be relocated permanently to the utility bridge and construction of the Colorado Street Reinforced Concrete Box (RCB) Bridge can begin. Eliot Street (RCB) Bridge construction will be constructed in parallel, with minor lag between the two.
   • High quality material has been exported to support other nearby City projects with an additional 7,000 cy of additional of export expected in November and December 2023.
     
     

     Construction Photo Exporting to Davenport Park

2. Shoring Installation at Eliot Street – DELAYS EXPERIENCED AND WORK ON-GOING
   • Description of Work and Timing: The City’s Contractor began the demolition of Eliot Street (late March 2023) to allow for the installation of sheet piles. The sheet piles will be utilized as a temporary water diversion structure, and will connect to the existing underground box culvert. This temporary structure will allow for the continued tidal flushing of the lagoon for it to remain healthy and thriving.
   • This effort will allow for a portion of the old underground box culvert to be demolished and allow for the construction of the new reinforced concrete boxes (RCBs) bridges.
   • NOV-DEC UPDATE: The temporary diversion channel opened early October, enabling demolition of a portion of the existing box culvert and allows for the excavation required for the new reinforced concrete boxes (RCBs) bridges to begin. An image of the diversion channel serving as a temporary hydraulic connection is shown below. Some minor adjustments to the diversion structure was performed in November to address water loss.
     
     
     
     

     Water Flowing through the Diversion Channel	Construction Progress the Side of the Existing Box
     	Culvert in order to redirect the water through the Diversion Channel

3. Utility Demolition – DELAYS EXPERIENCED AND WORK ON-GOING
   • Description of Work and Timing – Utility demolition and relocation continued through September 2023 as at least 17 additional unmapped utilities were discovered along both Eliot and Colorado Streets, though mainly at the Colorado Street alignment.
   • In July 2023, in order to proceed with bridge construction at Colorado Street, the contractor and Long Beach Utilities installed a temporary 12in water main (also known as a bypass) in the vicinity of Colorado Street near the north edge of the Lagoon.
   • The City worked with outside agencies, oil companies, and the Contractor for a variety of these abatement and removals as regulatory approvals are required to abate and demolish lines, that are constructed of asbestos-containing materials. The largest segment included an over 600 ft LADWP idle oil line and this work was completed in September 2023.
   • In August and September, the City and Contractor worked with SCE to relocate utility duct banks and to also relocate and change out power poles. SCE replaced existing power poles with taller poles along Colorado Street to help support new height clearances required for the bridge and construction work (photos below).
   • NOV-DEC UPDATE: In October 2023, the Contractor completed the removal of a 12in VCP sewer line which allows the contractor to begin excavation of the new Colorado Street utility bridge structure.
     
     

     SCE Installing New Pole
     New Sewer Pipe Installation Along Eliot

4. Shoring Installation Along Colorado Street: SHORING FOR UTILITY BRIDGE COMPLETED. ADDITIONAL SHORING REQUIRED FOR SEWER SIPHON REDESIGN
   • Description of Work and Timing – In January, the Contractor began installing shoring (sheetpile walls) to enable the excavation and installation of the new utility bridge structure at Colorado Street and that work was completed in the Spring.
   • NOV-DEC UPDATE: Additional shoring is expected to accommodate a redesign associated with the County Sanitation District’s sewer siphon. This work has been rescheduled to early 2024. During that time, the public is expected to feel some moderate vibrations and sound resulting from the pile installation methods (vibratory hammer) later.
5. Road Closures – REMAIN IN EFFECT AND EXTENDED
   
   • UPDATE: Due to construction delays, road closures remain in effect and are anticipated to last past Summer 2024. Additional information will be provided by the end of the year related to updated timelines. The City is working with the Contractor to compress the schedule, potentially re-sequence certain aspects of work, and re-open the roads as soon as possible.

Construction Look Ahead (October through November 2023)

1. Excavation, Stockpiling, and Fill Work – WORK ON-GOING
   • Excavation along the future footprint of the open channel commenced in July 2023 but excavation across other parts of the site will continue as we room is made for the bridge construction. Fill material here is comprised of a mix of debris, soil, and topsoil and the contractor will continue the separation of materials for reuse or disposal. Soil excavated from this footprint was used to backfill the prisms noted above, and debris will be off-hauled to a landfill.
   • High quality material has been exported to support other nearby City projects with an additional 7,000 cy of additional export to occur in October and November 2023.
     
     

     Construction Photo Exporting to Davenport Park

2. Shoring Installation at Eliot Street – DELAYS EXPERIENCED AND WORK ON-GOING
   • Description of Work and Timing: The City’s Contractor began the demolition of Eliot Street (late March 2023) to allow for the installation of sheet piles. The sheet piles will be utilized as a temporary water diversion structure, and will connect to the existing underground box culvert. This temporary structure will allow for the continued tidal flushing of the lagoon for it to remain healthy and thriving.
   • This effort will allow for a portion of the old underground box culvert to be demolished and allow for the construction of the new reinforced concrete boxes (RCBs) bridges.
   • Latest update: The temporary diversion channel opened early October, enabling demolition of a portion of the existing box culvert and allows for the excavation required for the new reinforced concrete boxes (RCBs) bridges to begin. An image of the diversion channel serving as a temporary hydraulic connection is shown below.
     
     
     
     

     Water Flowing through the Diversion Channel	Construction Progress the Side of the Existing Box
     	Culvert in order to redirect the water through the Diversion Channel

3. Utility Demolition –DELAYS EXPERIENCED AND WORK ON-GOING

   • Description of Work and Timing – Utility demolition and relocation continued through September 2023 as at least 16 additional unmapped utilities were discovered along both Eliot and Colorado Streets, though mainly at the Colorado segment.
   • In July 2023, in order to proceed with bridge construction at Colorado Street, the contractor and Long Beach Utilities installed a temporary 12in water main (also known as a bypass) in the vicinity of Colorado Street near the north edge of the Lagoon.
   • The City worked with outside agencies, oil companies, and the Contractor for a variety of these abatement and removals as regulatory approvals are required to abate and demolish lines, that are constructed of asbestos-containing materials. The largest segment included an over 600 ft LADWP idle oil line and this work was completed in September 2023.
   • In August and September, the City and Contractor worked with SCE to relocate utility duct banks and to also relocate and change out power poles. SCE replaced existing power poles with taller poles along Colorado Street to help support new height clearances required for the bridge and construction work (photos below).
   • Lastly in October, the Contractor is expected to proceed with the removal of a 12in VCP sewer line and plans to start the slopped exaction for the new Colorado Street utility bridge structure.
     
     

     SCE Installing New Pole
     New Sewer Pipe Installation Along Eliot

4. Shoring Installation Along Colorado Street: SHORING FOR UTILITY BRIDGE COMPLETED. ADDITIONAL SHORING REQUIRED FOR SEWER SIPHON REDESIGN
   • Description of Work and Timing – In January, the Contractor began installing shoring (sheetpile walls) to enable the excavation and installation of the new utility bridge structure at Colorado Street and that work was completed in the Spring.
   • UPDATE: However, additional shoring is expected to accommodate a redesign associated with the County Sanitation District’s sewer siphon. The public is expected to feel some moderate vibrations and sound resulting from the pile installation methods (vibratory hammer) later this year.
5. Road Closures – REMAIN IN EFFECT
   
   • Road closures remain in effect and are anticipated to last until Spring 2024. The City is working with the Contractor to compress the schedule and re-open the roads as soon as possible.

For monthly newsletter updates, please see the "More Information" section at the bottom of this webpage.

Construction Look Ahead (May through June 2023)

1. Marina Vista Park Excavation, Stockpiling, and Grading – WORK ON-GOING
   At the beginning of the year, the City’s Contractor began major excavation efforts at Marina Vista Park. As part of the work, the Contractor created an excavation prism (large hole) to separate and borrow clean, high-quality material to be used as sediment fill within the Lagoon central basin.
   
   The purpose of the central basin fill activities was to separate and harvest high-quality sediment to raise bottom elevations of the central lagoon to support overall habitat success—a requirement of the City’s regulatory approvals. The contractor completed the fill work in the Spring 2023 and restored the south beach.
   
   Currently, excavation along the future footprint of the open channel has commenced. Fill material here is comprised of a mix of debris, soil, and topsoil and the contractor will continue the separation of materials for reuse or disposal. Soil excavated from this footprint will be used to backfill the prisms noted above, and debris will be off-hauled to a landfill. Material is currently being stockpiled on the east portion of Marina Vista Park to create room for the Contractors to work. Lastly, as part of the excavation efforts, dewatering wells were installed to allow for the construction of the Colorado Street Utility Bridge and additional temporary dewatering units will be placed at Marina Vista Park to help dewater highly saturated, excavated soils and groundwater from the open channel footprint.
   
   
   Construction Photo of Channel Excavation Beginning
   
   
2. Shoring Installation at Eliot Street – DELAYS EXPERIENCED AND WORK ON-GOING Description of Work and Timing: The City’s Contractor began the demolition of Eliot Street (late March 2023) to allow for the installation of sheet piles. The sheet piles will be utilized as a temporary water diversion structure, and will connect to the existing underground box culvert. This temporary structure will allow for the continued tidal flushing of the lagoon for it to remain healthy and thriving.
   
   This effort will allow for a portion of the old underground box culvert to be demolished and allow for the construction of the new reinforced concrete boxes (RCBs) bridges. The public is expected to feel some moderate vibrations and sound resulting from the pile installation methods (vibratory hammer). The installation of the shoring and diversion system is expected to continue to the end of May 2023.
   
   In June, the City anticipates completing the temporary diversion structure and activating it as the lagoon’s primary hydraulic connection.
   
   
   Construction Photo of Eliot Street Shoring Activities
   
   

3. Utility Demolition –DELAYS EXPERIENCED AND WORK ON-GOING

   • Description of Work and Timing – Utility demolition is anticipated to continue through May and into June as additional unmapped utilities were discovered along both Eliot and Colorado Streets. Regulatory approvals are required to abate and demolish the lines, which are constructed of asbestos-containing materials. Anticipated utilities that are to be abated and removed include water lines, abandoned oil lines, idle oil lines, and conduits in duct banks.
   • In June 2023, the Contractor will install a temporary water main to enable the sloped excavation for the Colorado Street Utility Bridge.
4. Shoring Installation Along Colorado Street: SHORING FOR UTILITY BRIDGE COMPLETED. ADDITIONAL SHORING REQUIRED FOR SEWER SIPHON REDESIGN
   • Description of Work and Timing – In January, the Contractor began installing shoring (sheetpile walls) to enable the excavation and installation of the new utility bridge at Colorado Street and that work was completed in the Spring.
   • However, additional shoring is expected to accommodate a redesign associated with the County sewer siphon. The public is expected to feel some moderate vibrations and sound resulting from the pile installation methods (vibratory hammer). Shoring associated with the sewer siphon installation is expected to be complete by June 2023.
5. Restroom Demolition at Larry Curtis Park at Marine Stadium - COMPLETE
   
   • Description of Work and Timing: The public restroom located at Larry Curtis Park at Marine Stadium was abated of hazardous building materials prior to its demolition.
6. Temporary Pedestrian Path Re-route – NOW OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
   
   • Description of Work and Timing: The City’s Contractor completed the construction of the new temporary pedestrian path and pedestrian detour through Marina Vista Park.
   • The pedestrian path and detour will be available while the sidewalk and bike lane along Eliot Street are closed (approximately 8 months). The path will be limited in width and will only be accessible to pedestrians and not motorists. Cyclists are asked to walk their bikes or slow down to 5 mph.
     
     
7. Road Closures – REMAIN IN EFFECT
   
   • Road closures remain in effect and are anticipated to last until Spring 2024. The City is working with the Contractor to compress the schedule and re-open the roads as soon as possible.

Upcoming Work (April 2023)

1. Central Basin Fill Activity – COMPLETE; DEMOBILIZATION COMMENCING
   The work associated with the Colorado Lagoon central basin fill activities was extended to the week of March 20th for not having met design depths and elevations. Additional fill was performed, where low spots existed. For the past few months, the Contractor has been taking material from the Open Channel construction site (at Marina Vista Park) to the lagoon parking lot and hydraulically placing this fill material within the central basin to raise the bottom elevations of the central lagoon to support overall habitat as a requirement of the City’s regulatory approvals. The contractor is expected to begin demobilization in late March/April 2023.
   • Description of Work and Timing: Demobilization Will Commence and Continue to Mid-April 2023 – The City’s contractor will remove their equipment from the lagoon, and deconstruct their equipment and staging along the shoreline. The Contractor will be required to restore the sandy beach to its prior condition.
     • *Please Note: Public access to the Colorado Lagoon Parking Lot and pedestrian bridge/floating walkway will return to normal after demobilization is complete. The parking lot and pedestrian bridge/walkway closure is only in effect during the Contractor's working hours (Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.).
2. Temporary Pedestrian Path Re-Route - NOW OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
   
   • The City’s Contractor completed the construction of the new temporary pedestrian path and pedestrian detour through Marina Vista Park. On the same day, the Contractor fenced off the existing pathways along Eliot Street and Marine Stadium Park in preparation of Eliot Street demolition and sheet piling.
     

     The pedestrian path and detour will be available while the sidewalk and bike lane along Eliot Street are closed (approximately 8 months). The path will be limited in width and will only be accessible to pedestrians.  Cyclists are asked to walk their bikes or slow down to 5 mph.  New signage coming.
     
     

3. Shoring Installation at Eliot Street - COMMENCING
   • Description of Work and Timing:  The City’s Contractor began the demolition of Eliot Street (3/27) to allow for the installation of sheet piles. The sheet piles will support the creation of a temporary water diversion structure which will connect to the existing box culvert and allow for the continued tidal flushing of the lagoon to allow the lagoon to remain healthy and thriving. In addition, this will enable the existing box culvert to be demolished and create the footprint for the new reinforced concrete boxes (RCBs) for the new bridges. The public is expected to feel some moderate vibrations and sound resulting from the pile installation methods (vibratory hammer). Installation of the shoring and diversion system is expected to last 4 weeks and be complete by April 2023. However, depending on site and soil conditions encountered, sheet pile work may extend to May 2023 if more dense materials are encountered.
4. Restroom Demolition at Larry Curtis Park at Marine Stadium - COMMENCING
   
   • Description of Work and Timing: 
     • As part of the overall project, the public restroom located at Larry Curtis Park at Marine Stadium will be demolished.  Abatement work began the week of March 27 and demolition will begin as soon as hazardous building materials abatement is complete and post-abatement testing is cleared.  Work to demolish the restrooms is dependent on completion of abatement and may begin as early as April 10.
5. Shoring Installation Along Colorado Street - ON HOLD
   
   • Description of Work and Timing: In January, the Contractor began installing shoring (sheetpile walls) to enable the excavation and installation of the new utility bridge at Colorado Street. The public is expected to feel some moderate vibrations and sound resulting from the pile installation methods (vibratory hammer). Remaining sheetpile work has been placed on hold until confirmation of clearances and utility relocations.
6. Utility Demolition - COMMENCING
   
   • Description of Work and Timing: Looking ahead to April, the City’s Contractors will begin demolishing the restroom at Marine Stadium Park, and several utility relocations and removals are expected to occur.  Private easements holders that maintain private oil lines along Eliot and Colorado Streets will begin the demolition and removal of those lines. 
7. SCE and Power Disruptions - COMMENCING
   
   • Description of Work and Timing: The City and Contractor are in coordination with SCE related to work around existing power lines and any power line relocations or temporary adjustments. These activities may result in power shutdowns and would be limited to business hours. Prior to any temporary power disruptions, SCE will provide the requisite advisories and notices. The first anticipated power shut down is to occur on 4/11 associated with a cutover the Eliot Street duct bank to a temporary overhead line. This will only impact City buildings and facilities located along Marine Stadium. A second power disruption is expected later in the project as SCE conducts additional utility relocation.
8. Road Closures - IN PROGRESS
   
   • Road closures remain in effect and are anticipated to last until Spring 2024. The City is working with the Contractor to compress the schedule and re-open the roads as soon as possible.

Upcoming Work (February 2023 - March 2023)

1. Central Basin Fill Activity - The Colorado Lagoon Public Parking Lot off Appian Way and the pedestrian bridge remain closed while the Contractor (Reyes Construction) continues the lagoon fill work. This work is being done to raise the bottom elevation of the Lagoon to create suitable habitat for eelgrass and improve the quality of the lagoon for plants and animals.
   • Description of Work and Timing: Work is On-Going – The Contractor is hauling the fill material from the Open Channel construction site (at Marina Vista Park) to the lagoon parking lot. Using a hydraulic dredge, the material will then be placed in the lagoon. The placement of the fill began in January, expected to be complete in late February, and demobilization of construction equipment will be completed by mid-March.
     • *Please note: the parking lot and pedestrian bridge/walkway closure is only in effect during the Contractor's working hours (Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.).
2. Shoring Installation Along Colorado Street: Work is On-Going
   • Description of Work and Timing – In January, the Contractor began installing shoring (sheetpile walls) to enable the excavation and installation of the new utility bridge at Colorado Street. The public is expected to feel some moderate vibrations and sound resulting from the pile installation methods (vibratory hammer). Installation is on-going and expected to be complete in early March.
3. Shoring Installation at Eliot Street: Work Pending
   • Description of Work and Timing: At the Completion of the Shoring Installation Along Colorado (expected to be complete in March 2023),  the Contractor will connect the temporary diversion structure to the existing box culvert near Eliot Street to support the tidal flushing of the lagoon while the work is underway. This will enable the existing box culvert to be demolished and create the footprint for the new reinforced concrete boxes (RCBs) to be constructed. The public is expected to feel some moderate vibrations and sound resulting from the pile installation methods (vibratory hammer). Installation of the shoring and diversion system is expected to last 4 weeks.
4. Temporary Pedestrian Path Re-route
   
   • Description of Work and Timing: March 2023 – The Contractor will be installing a detour and temporary pathway for the public, while the sidewalk and bike lane along Eliot Street are closed (approximately 8 months). The path will be limited in width and will only be accessible to pedestrians.
     
5. SCE and Power Disruptions: Work Pending
   • The City and Contractor are in coordination with SCE as sheetpiles necessary to support the construction are located near existing power lines. These activities may result in power shutdowns and would be limited to business hours. Prior to any temporary power disruptions, SCE will provide the requisite advisories and notices. This is the first anticipated power disruption. A second power disruption is expected later in the project as SCE conducts additional utility work to support the project.
6. Road Closures – Road closures remain in effect and are anticipated to last until Spring 2024. The City is working with the Contractor to compress the schedule and re-open the roads as soon as possible.

Project Reminders:

• The Farmer's Market will remain open on Wednesdays from 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM.
• Please continue to follow traffic detour signs.
• Eliot Street remains closed. We ask the public for their support to adhere to road closures.

Upcoming Work (January 2023 - February 2023)

Central Basin Fill Activity - The Colorado Lagoon Public Parking Lot at Appian Way, in addition to the pedestrian bridge, will be closed while the contractor prepares for the Colorado Lagoon fill work. The fill is being done to raise bottom the elevation of the Lagoon in order to create a suitable habitat for eelgrass and improve the quality of the Lagoon for plants and animals.

• Beginning the Week of January 3, 2023, the contractor will begin hauling the fill material from the Open Channel Construction Site (located at Marina Vista Park) to the Lagoon Parking Lot. Using a hydraulic dredge, the material will then be placed in the Lagoon.

• *Please note: the parking lot and pedestrian bridge/walkway closure is only in effect during the Contractor's working hours (Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM).

Shoring Installation Along Colorado Street - The Contractor has delivered its crane and sheet piles to the project site.

• Beginning the Week of January 3, 2023, the contractor will install shoring to enable the excavation and installation of the new utility bridge at Colorado Street. The public is expected to feel some moderate vibrations and hear sounds from the pile installation methods (vibratory hammer). Installation of the shoring system is expected to last three weeks.

SCE and Power Disruptions - The City and Contractor is in coordination with Southern California Edison (SCE) as some of the piles are located near existing power lines. These activities may result in power shut downs and would be limited to business hours. Prior to any temporary power disruptions, SCE will provide requisite advisories and notices to nearby residents and businesses. 

Thank you to the community members and project partners that attended the Colorado Lagoon Open Channel Project Pre-construction Community Meeting. For sequence of events, roadway closures, and more, please review the November 7, 2022 Community Meeting Presentation. Project FAQs are forthcoming.