SAN CLEMENTE : Project to Resurface Roads Begins Today

A major street resurfacing project along El Camino Real will begin today and is expected to be completed by mid-May.

The $415,000 project will be done in separate phases to ease potential traffic problems and lessen the impact on local businesses, said Akram Hindiyeh, a senior civil engineer for the city.

“The street hasn’t been rehabilitated before except for some patching up because the funds had not been available,” Hindiyeh said. “This project will make the street smoother, more ridable and safer.”

The city was finally able to move ahead with plans for the resurfacing after receiving a $200,000 grant from the county.

Although there will be some inconveniences for motorists during the project, the street will remain open at all times. It, however, will be narrowed to two lanes during certain times.

The first phase of work begins today between East Canada and El Portal. The northbound side of El Camino Real will be closed, with two-way traffic being squeezed onto the southbound side of the street. This is expected to last a week.

At the same time, a 100-foot portion of the street near Escalones will be undergoing some gutter construction work, which will also last one week, Hindiyeh said.

The second phase of the project will begin March 30 with reconstruction of three lanes along Avenida Palizada between El Camino Real and Avenida de la Estrella.

Hindiyeh said the roadwork, which involves grinding three inches of concrete and replacing it with three inches of new pavement, should result in the street lasting for at least 10 years.