Updated:  02.17.26

PROJECT STATUS

The design of a new storm drain mainline on Vulcan Ave from Union Street to Moonlight Beach is underway. On November 12, 2025, City Council approved the award of a design contract to Proactive Engineering Consultants Inc, dba. Q3 Consulting. When preliminary design elements are ready, the City will host a neighborhood meeting to gather community feedback on the project and its proposed design.

ABOUT THE PROJECT  

The City of Encinitas has experienced a history of flooding, especially within the Leucadia area. Much of the recurring flooded areas are located in relatively flat terrain with minimal or restricted drainage infrastructure. In December 2022, Q3 Consultants completed the “Leucadia Area Watershed Drainage Feasibility Study,” which analyzed and developed several drainage improvements to aid in resolving flooding issues in the area. In June 2025, City Council approved funding for the design and permitting phase of the South Leucadia Watershed Vulcan Ave Mainline Storm Drain, which was one of the three identified mainline improvements.

The proposed project will install a new underground stormwater mainline starting near the intersection of N Vulcan Ave at Union Street and terminating at B Street near Moonlight Beach. Stormwater will be conveyed south down Vulcan Ave, turn to the west down Encinitas Blvd and B Street, and outlet in a small open channel on the north side of B Street.

In February 2026, additional scope and funding were added to the project for a proposed lateral pipe "S-1" to connect to the future South Leucadia Watershed Vulcan Ave. mainline storm drain.  This lateral pipe will include an underground stormwater pipe starting near the upper reach of Union Street and connecting into the Vulcan Avenue mainline at the intersection of Vulcan Ave and Orpheus Ave.  The primary function of this lateral is to de-flood the low point near the upper Union Street/Orpheus Ave. intersection.