Special City Council Meeting Livestream 06/24/2026

The City of Encinitas held a special city council meeting on June 24, 2026, focused on the 50% design update for the Santa Fe Drive Western Phase Modification Project. The council reviewed three design options aimed at improving bike lane safety, parking configurations, and traffic flow along Santa Fe Drive, particularly near San Diego Academy. Key procurement-related discussions included the authorization to proceed with design option three, which features parallel parking, buffered class 2 bike lanes in both directions, and signal modifications. The council also discussed coordination with utility partners for relocations and compliance with ADA and stormwater regulations. Public comments highlighted concerns about bike lane safety, emergency vehicle access, and parking impacts. The council voted 4-1 to accept the 50% design and direct staff to proceed with option three, including additional conflict striping near the school. Staff will advertise for construction bids and return to council in early 2027 for contract award, with construction anticipated to begin in summer 2027. The project budget and contract awards were referenced, with prior expenditures noted and an estimated $3.8 million for redesign efforts. The Coastal Commission's involvement was acknowledged, with staff maintaining communication and indicating that final permit decisions will follow completion of design plans.