Bridge to link promenade to downtown.
The City of Ventura’s California Street Bridge Pedestrian Project will begin construction this month. Enhancements include new lighting, decorative railings and sidewalk treatments which will create a safer environment for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists crossing the bridge and will help visually distinguish the California Street off-ramp as the entry to our historic downtown.
It will also make walking across to the promenade much safer and people friendly.
“This project connects two of Ventura’s greatest assets and economic drivers, our Historic Downtown and the Pacific Ocean. Creating a more walkable environment encourages pedestrians to explore Downtown and patronize businesses,” said Mayor Erik Nasarenko.
Construction is expected to be completed in August. Access may be restricted during construction work; detours will help guide pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists safely across the California Street Bridge through the project area. This project will require occasional northbound and/or southbound Hwy 101 night closures at the California Street Bridge; detours will route motorists around the construction. Every effort has been made by the construction company to make the work safe and efficient. There are numerous safety procedures and products being used, such as an modular aluminium trench box, to ensure that the utility workers are kept safe.
“Tens of thousands of people cross this highly visible pedestrian path between downtown and the beachfront every year,” said Kevin Clerici, director of the Downtown Ventura Partners business improvement district. “The taller railing, overhead lighting and art elements will go a long way to improve and beautify what is now a pretty inelegant walkway. We are grateful to see these long-awaited improvements completed.”
