The City of San Luis Obispo celebrated the completion of the Mid-Higuera Bypass Project on April 3, 2026, marking a major milestone in reducing flood risk along the South Higuera Street corridor.

Completed in partnership with the County of San Luis Obispo Flood Control Zone 9 and the California Department of Water Resources, the Mid-Higuera Bypass Project is the most significant flood-control project in the City’s history and represents more than 30 years of planning and collaboration. Properties along South Higuera Street, between Marsh Street and Madonna Road, now have a significantly reduced risk of flooding during major storm events.

“This project is a signature component of the San Luis Obispo Creek Waterway Management Plan and a strong example of partnership between the City, County, and State,” said a Kate Ballantyne, Assistant Chief Executive Officer for SLO County. “It creates a lasting legacy for the watershed and the entire community.”
 
The project was first identified following historic flooding in 1995 and later became the highest-priority project in the San Luis Obispo Creek Waterway Management Plan, adopted in 2003. Flooding in this corridor has historically impacted residents, businesses, and access to downtown, including during major storms in 1995 and again in 2023.
 
“This project has been decades in the making and is a major investment in community safety and resilience,” said Madeline Kacsinta, Assistant Director of Public Works. “With the Mid-Higuera Bypass complete, properties along South Higuera Street now have a reduced risk of flooding, and our downtown corridor is better protected during major storm events”
 
Project Highlights

• Increased flood capacity in San Luis Obispo Creek by 40%
• Moved approximately 22,950 cubic yards of soil
• Constructed two creek diversions and lowered floodwater surface elevation by 6 to 18 inches
• Replaced the aging Bianchi Lane Bridge with a safer modern structure that increases creek capacity
• Relocated 340 steelhead trout and planted 275 trees and 300 shrubs
• Reduced potential flood damage and economic impacts in the downtown corridor

 
The event was held to thank project partners, staff, and community members who supported the project over many years, including nearby residents and businesses who endured construction impacts, traffic disruptions, and noise throughout the process.
 
The Mid-Higuera Bypass Project represents a long-term investment in flood protection, environmental stewardship, and the safety and economic vitality of San Luis Obispo.

Media Contact: Noah Maidrand, Project Manager/Engineer III, nmaidran@slocity.org, (805) 783-7854