Tunnel project tours offered

The South Coast Water District is offering tours of the Tunnel Stabilization and Sewer Pipeline Replacement project.

The tours will be from 9 a.m. to noon Nov. 25 and Dec. 3; and 1 to 4 p.m. Dec. 3.

Tours will start and end at Aliso Beach near the concession stand, 31131 S. Coast Hwy. Participants should plan to leave their vehicles at the Aliso Beach parking area. It is recommended that participants wear comfortable shoes as there will be walking on the beach and up and down the stairs at 1,000 Steps Beach.

Repairs are needed throughout the tunnel to stabilize deteriorating conditions, prevent pipe failure, sewer spills and improve worker safety in the tunnel, according to the water district.

Project plans call for stabilization tunnel entry locations, removal of loose rock and rotten timber supports, and excavation and enlargement of the tunnel to form a stable, horseshoe shape. Permanent shotcrete lining and steel supports will be installed at several locations.

Construction activities are expected to last about five years, according to the district.

The water district has applied for a coastal development permit and conditional use permit for the tunnel stabilization project that are under review by the Laguna Beach Planning Commission.

Those who wish to attend must RSVP to Jody Brennan at (949) 499-4555, ext. 3160, or jbrennan@scwd.org. Please confirm which day and time you plan to attend.

—Alicia Lopez

Twitter: @AlopezCityEd