Carlsbad declares local emergency to repair eroded beach bluff

Carlsbad’s city manager declared a local emergency Wednesday to expedite repairs to a storm drain system on an ocean bluff eroded by recent rains.

The drain pipe just west of Solamar Drive and Carlsbad Boulevard, also known as Coast Highway 101, is on land owned and monitored by the California State Parks Department in cooperation with the city.

“Portions of the site were previously restricted due to erosion concerns,” states a city news release. “More recently, city staff observed additional erosion near the same general area. Out of an abundance of caution, the city placed barriers and caution tape to prevent public access.”

The emergency proclamation will allow the city to address the erosion issue more quickly by streamlining contracting and permitting processes.

“Repairs are anticipated to begin by next week and take several weeks to complete,” the release states. “In the meantime, members of the community are encouraged to take caution and avoid the area.”

An alternate walkway around the affected area will be widened for public use during construction, officials said. Fencing and signs will be posted to divert the public to the alternate path.

The stretch of highway near Carlsbad State Beach is one of the most heavily traveled routes for cyclists and joggers in San Diego County. During the highest tides of the year in December and January, waves splash onto the lowest sections of the southbound lanes leaving cobblestones on the pavement.

The emergency declared by City Manager Geoff Patnoe is expected to be ratified at the Carlsbad City Council’s meeting Jan. 13. If ratified, the declaration will remain in place until the council’s next meeting when the council can choose to extend or remove it.

“The safety of our residents and visitors is our top priority,” Patnoe said in the release. “Proclaiming a local emergency allows us to act quickly, coordinate resources and reduce potential risks.”

Gov. Gavin Newsom proclaimed an emergency Dec. 24 in response to severe storms affecting much of the state.