Avenida Encinas Coastal Rail Trail and Pedestrian Improvements Project, CDP2024-0010/HMP2024-0009

The Avenida Encinas Coastal Rail Trail and Pedestrian Improvements Project (CDP2024-0010/HMP2024-0009) is a City of Carlsbad initiative to enhance roadway, bikeway, and pedestrian infrastructure along a one-mile segment of Avenida Encinas between Palomar Airport Road and the Poinsettia Coaster Station Driveway. This project implements Reach 5 of the City of Carlsbad Trails Master Plan and includes the construction of seven-foot-wide striped buffered Class II bike lanes, roadway widening, new pavement, sidewalks, and curb ramps. Additional site improvements feature landscaped medians, bio-filtration swales, lighting, fencing, parking, retaining walls, and median passageways equipped with flashing beacons. The project was approved on January 21, 2026, following an environmental review process under CEQA and NEPA that resulted in a Mitigated Negative Declaration. Key compliance requirements include adherence to the Americans with Disabilities Act, NPDES permit requirements for erosion and sediment control, and the City of Carlsbad's Master Drainage Plan and Storm Water Ordinance. The project requires a Major Coastal Development Permit and a Habitat Management Plan Permit due to its location within the Coastal Zone. Administrative oversight is led by Senior Planner Scott Donnell, with technical environmental support provided by HELIX Environmental Planning Inc.