San Luis Obispo Creek Mid-Higuera Bypass

San Luis Obispo Creek provides a scenic and recreational resource for the City of San Luis Obispo, and yet also is a source for historic flooding. Creek channel capacity in the Mid-Higuera area is constrained by dense vegetation, bridge crossings, and significant development in the natural floodplain.

To reduce flooding and restore riparian habitat, Wallace Group prepared an alternatives analysis and conceptual construction plans to identify the preferred project alternative. The team then prepared a Final PS&E package for this area of the Creek. The project includes high-flow bypass channels, elevated benches, vegetation management, and replacement of the Bianchi Lane Bridge to increase creek capacity and reduce flood risk.

Our team provided topographic surveying, hydraulic modeling, grading and scour analysis, structural design, and environmental permitting support. We also helped secure Proposition 1 Grant funding and contributed to the Supplemental Environmental Impact Report. The final design balances flood protection with ecological preservation, including bank stabilization and a mitigation planting plan to restore riparian habitat.

We are grateful to have partnered with the City of San Luis Obispo on this vital infrastructure project for the downtown community.

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