Day Work Currently Underway on the Via Lucero Wastewater Force Main Replacement Project

Day Work Currently Underway on the Via Lucero Wastewater Force Main Replacement Project

Construction crews have completed work on State Street and Hope Avenue as part of the Via Lucero Force Main Replacement Project. The crew is now conducting trenchless drilling activities during daytime working hours (7 a.m. - 5 p.m.). on Via Lucero. This part of construction is estimated to be completed October 16. Trenchless drilling is a construction method that installs underground pipelines by drilling a horizontal path beneath the surface, minimizing excavation and disruption to the community.

The Via Lucero Wastewater Force Main Replacement Project is a critical infrastructure improvement project designed to ensure continued reliable wastewater service for the community. This project involves replacing a pressurized sewer main (force main) on Via Lucero between Bodega Lane and Hope Avenue. The existing 1950's pressurized sewer main has reached the end of its useful life and will be replaced with redundant force mains, which will reduce risks of sewer spills and lower maintenance costs. As part of the project, adjacent gravity sewer mains and manholes of similar age and condition will also be replaced along portions of Hope Avenue and State Street.

Project construction is expected to be completed by December 2026. The project spans portions of Via Lucero, Hope Avenue, and Upper State Street. The boundaries are:

• Via Lucero from Bodega Lane to Hope Avenue
• Hope Avenue from Via Lucero to State Street
• State Street at Hope Avenue (northeastern area of intersection only)

Community benefits for this project include:

• Reduced risk of leaks and system failures
• Increased capacity for today's wastewater demands
• Better system monitoring and maintenance access
• Future repairs without service interruption

This $4.8 million project is funded by monthly sewer service fees paid by City wastewater customers. The City appreciates the community's patience and cooperation as we work to enhance our essential wastewater infrastructure.

For more project information and to subscribe for updates, please visit: Via Lucero Wastewater Force Main Replacement Project | City of Santa Barbara

Contact: Heidi Braunger, Project Engineer II
Phone: (805) 897-1902
Email: [email protected]