Laguna Beach’s Permanent Forest Avenue Promenade Construction Begins February

The City of Laguna Beach is set to transform the temporary pedestrian promenade on Forest Avenue into a permanent feature, following its popularity during the pandemic. The City Council has approved a significant construction contract valued at $5.5 million, along with an additional $350,000 for project management by a local firm. This construction is scheduled to commence in February.

Project Details and Timeline

City officials, including engineer Tom Perez, stated that intensive work will be conducted primarily at night to minimize disruption. This construction will involve removing existing curbs, sidewalks, and parking areas, which will be replaced with decorative pavers and landscaped elements.

Councilmember Alex Rounaghi expressed enthusiasm for completing the project before summer, emphasizing the need to support local businesses during construction. The current promenade, lined with chairs, tables, and boutiques, has created a vibrant outdoor shopping experience.

Community Concerns

Despite the excitement surrounding the project, some community members have voiced concerns. Groups like Friends of Forest Avenue and Village Laguna worry about increased traffic, parking shortages, and flooding risks. Critics argue that the new design might detract from Laguna Beach’s historic charm.

Flooding Mitigation Measures

In response to flooding worries, Perez confirmed that a study to ensure compliance with FEMA regulations is in its final stages. Preliminary findings suggest that the new design will actually mitigate flooding risks associated with a 100-year storm.

Stakeholder Involvement

Since 2021, the idea of a permanent promenade and pedestrian plaza has been developed with input from local businesses and residents. Councilmember Sue Kempf and Mayor Mark Orgill have led an ad hoc committee aimed at refining the project based on community feedback.

• Two public workshops were conducted to gather input from residents and business owners.
• In June, the council voted to advance the project.
• In August, the California Coastal Commission approved the plans.

Looking Ahead

Kempf and Orgill committed to closely monitoring the construction process. Kempf remarked, “Mark and I will be down there every day,” underlining their dedication to ensuring local businesses thrive during this transition. Both council members acknowledged potential challenges ahead but expressed confidence in managing them effectively.

As the project moves forward, the community can anticipate a revitalized Forest Avenue, blending a modern promenade with the charm of Laguna Beach.