Roadwork resumes (in time for Memorial Day) on Carlsbad Blvd.

In April, coastal drivers on Carlsbad Boulevard (Coast Highway) may have wondered why the city sandblasted away all the pedestrian crosswalk markings, especially in light of the reported overkill by the city in pedestrian signage added back in October of 2012. Also missing were the “SIGNAL AHEAD,” “PED XING,” and “30 MPH” markings on the beachfront roadway.

Residents found out on May 15 that the removal of the road markings was in preparation for the re-pavement of three miles of Carlsbad Boulevard — from the Encina Power Station north to the Amtrak bridge near the Army-Navy Academy.

Construction crews closed lanes and began chopping up existing pavement on May 15. At around 10 a.m., traffic was backed up ten minutes trying to get through the reduced-lane, main intersection of Carlsbad Boulevard and Carlsbad Village Drive.

According to Kristina Ray, communications manager for the city, construction was delayed following the removal of the road markings as they tried to get all the necessary permits and contractors lined up.

The project will impact the heavy beach traffic expected over Memorial Day weekend but will be completed by the Fourth of July; orange flashing signs indicate completion by June 15.

“It will make the road a lot safer and widen the bike lanes. People will appreciate the improvements once it is finished,” said Ray.