Meloland Road Bridge Replacement at Central Drain; County Project Number 6838

Imperial County Project Number 6838 involves the demolition and replacement of a deteriorated wooden bridge at Meloland Road over the Central Drain in Holtville, California. The scope of work includes replacing the existing bridge with an underground pipe crossing and repaving the approach road. This project is coordinated with the Imperial Irrigation District for de-watering and vegetation removal within the Central Drain, which is a critical drainage system for the El Centro urban area. The project is subject to strict environmental and regulatory compliance under CEQA and NEPA, including a Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program. Key requirements include adhering to Imperial County Air Pollution Control District regulations for dust emissions and maintaining construction noise levels below 55-60 dB within 50 feet of the source. Biological protections are mandated, including specific construction windows for maternity roosts from October 1 to February 28, a prohibition of activities within 500 feet of hibernacula, and a ban on construction between 30 minutes before sunset and 30 minutes after sunrise. Additionally, the project requires authorization from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and adherence to state laws regarding the accidental discovery of human remains.