ATASCADERO —The City of Atascadero continues to make progress on the El Camino Real Downtown Safety and Parking Enhancements Project (ECR Project), which will enhance overall safety for all users and increase parking access through downtown. As part of the utility and streetscape improvements, the City’s contractor is beginning work that will result in temporary impacts at the corners of El Camino Real and Entrada Ave., and El Camino Real and Traffic Way.

The corners of El Camino Real and Entrada Avenue began undergoing extensive improvements on Friday, Jul. 26. In addition to the ongoing utility and streetscape upgrades, the ECR Project is installing bulb outs at these corners to enhance pedestrian safety, increase visibility and better define parking spaces. To reduce the overall impacts to the public and businesses at this location, work at both Entrada Avenue corners will be done concurrently.

To maximize safety, a section of the sidewalk and approximately nine street parking spots on Entrada will be closed for approximately one week to facilitate the underground electrical work. However, Entrada Avenue will remain accessible to vehicles and pedestrians throughout this construction work phase, and the City’s contractor will post temporary signage and create an ADA-compliant pathway to ensure continued access to local businesses. 

“As we work to bring our vision of a safer, more vibrant downtown Atascadero to life, we greatly appreciate our community’s patience and cooperation during this construction period. Speeding up this construction phase is critical to limit the impacts on upcoming school traffic and our beloved community events,” said Atascadero Mayor Heather Moreno. “Our downtown shops, restaurants and activities remain open, and I encourage our residents to continue supporting our local businesses and attending our community events!” 

The City will be modifying traffic patterns and access points for the 31st Annual Hot El Camino Cruise Nite on Friday, Aug. 16, and the 8th Annual Dancing in the Streets on Saturday, Aug. 17 to enhance community safety. The City will share detailed information about these updates with both event participants and attendees in the coming weeks. 

Residents and businesses are encouraged to stay informed about ongoing project updates, traffic advisories and event impacts by following the City on Social Media Platforms: Facebook, Instagram, and X and visiting Atascadero.org/ECRProject. Community members can also sign up for construction news and alerts at Atascadero.org/News-List.