Pismo Creek, Highway 101 bridge to get repairs

The Highway 101 southbound on-ramp at Price Street could soon be getting some major repairs to stop erosion that is threatening the structural integrity of the Pismo Creek bridge.

Caltrans is taking public comment on a proposal to replace what are called the concrete slop lining and cutoff walls underneath the Pismo Beach bridge. Water from Pismo Creek has slowly worn away large segments of the concrete protection, increasing the risk of erosion to the columns and threatening the bridge’s integrity, Caltrans spokesman Jim Shivers said.

“Much like we do repaving to ensure a smoother road, and striping and lights and things to provide safety for the public, this project is basically to maintain the structural integrity of the bridge for the safety of the public,” he said.

According to Shivers, Caltrans has been aware of the eroding concrete walls under the bridge for several years, and has been determining how best to fix it. The bridge was placed on the state’s “Scour Critical List” in 2011, meaning the bridge was at a high risk of damage from erosion and eventually — though not in the near future — collapse.

The $2.2 million project would be funded entirely through the State Highway Operation and Protection Program.

The ramp has not had any major work done on it in at least the past decade, project manager Amy Donatello said Thursday. According to the Caltrans California Log of Bridges on State Highways, the bridge was built in 1956 and was last renovated in 1978.

The plan is to replace the slope lining and cutoff walls, as well as some of the more damaged support columns, Shivers said. He said the on-ramp would remain open through construction, so drivers would not face any delays or rerouting.

Caltrans has completed an initial environmental study that shows the project will not negatively impact Pismo Creek or adjoining areas. This study can be reviewed at the Caltrans District 5 office at 50 Higuera St. in San Luis Obispo, the Arroyo Grande Library at 800 W. Branch St. or the Shell Beach Main Library at 230 Leeward Ave.

The public comment period for the draft environmental study ends April 9, and after that, Caltrans will circulate the final environmental impact report for more public comment. If all goes as planned, Shivers said he expects construction could begin on the bridge by late 2018.

“I think this project will move forward very smoothly,” Shivers said.

This story was originally published March 24, 2016 at 4:09 PM with the headline "Pismo Creek, Highway 101 bridge to get repairs."