Michael Baker served as the lead designer for Phase I of the Leucadia 101 Streetscape Project in Encinitas, California, along the North Coast Highway 101 corridor. In the past, the corridor was highly devoted to business and industrial uses, including gas stations, auto-repair centers and convenience stores serving commercial clientele. As the thoroughfare evolved, it shifted to more mixed-use, family-friendly businesses, highlighting the need for a complete streets design approach.
This project was a recognition of the shifted focus of the corridor. The improvements enhanced connectivity by providing the community with a safe and convenient travel experience, ensuring easier access to beaches, shops, schools, residences and restaurants.
Improvements included increased walkability with 11 new crosswalks, wider sidewalks, updated Americans with Disabilities Act crossing and pedestrian ramps at four intersections, connection to the El Portal undercrossing, new buffered bike lanes, additional parking, safer traffic flow and reduced speeds, a new roundabout and an enhanced environment with new streetlights, restoration of the historic tree canopy and implementation of green street concepts.
The streetscape project made it easier and safer for community members and visitors alike to reach the beach and enjoy the shops and restaurants on North Coast Highway 101, using multimodal transportation encouraged by the availability of nearby transit stations, a bus route along the corridor and e-bike stations strategically placed for convenience.