2026 EE36-EE30 Emergency Project

The 2026 EE36-EE30 Emergency Project is a critical infrastructure initiative managed by the Santa Cruz County Sanitation District to repair a failing sewer main located at the Capitola Road Extension in California. The project addresses structural defects in the pipe, joints, and connections caused by age-related deterioration. Due to the infeasibility of trenchless methods, the scope of work requires conventional open-cut trenching within a 10-foot wide construction corridor. This process involves digging trenches, removing deteriorated piping, installing replacement pipes, and restoring the area to its original contours. To maintain service during construction, temporary bypass piping will be utilized along existing access routes. Because the project runs parallel to the Arana Gulch riparian corridor, it is subject to strict environmental and biological compliance measures. Key requirements include mandatory biological awareness training for all personnel, the installation of high-visibility fencing around sensitive habitats, and the use of a qualified biologist to monitor initial clearing and grubbing. Specific species protections are in place, including surveys for San Francisco dusky-footed woodrat nests and nesting bird surveys during the February 1st to August 31st season. The project is governed by a CEQA Notice of Exemption and a Riparian Exception Level 3 permit, which is effective from July 30, 2026, through July 30, 2029. Project management is led by Ivan Messina of the Public Works Sanitation Department.