City officials in Del Mar have announced a significant overhaul of Jimmy Durante Boulevard, the city’s widest road, as part of a comprehensive $3.5 million paving and striping initiative. The project is slated for completion by May 2026 and will involve the application of two inches of new asphalt across a substantial stretch of roadway.
The work will encompass all pavement between the southern side of the intersection at Via de la Valle and the San Dieguito River Bridge. In a statement, the city emphasized that a revised striping plan aims to enhance both traffic flow and pedestrian safety. Notably, the installation of green paint for striping is intended to increase awareness among drivers and cyclists navigating the shared roadway.
During the projected three-month construction period, traffic will continue to be accommodated in both directions. The initiative aims to repair at least 340,000 square feet of pavement, equivalent to six football fields, which represents nearly 8% of the total pavement infrastructure that Del Mar maintains.
Project Details and Budget Breakdown
The improvements will be conducted within the existing curb-to-curb width, ensuring that curbs, gutters, and sidewalks remain intact. Key enhancements include the replacement of asphalt, potential structural repairs to the subsurface, and the application of reflective traffic striping. This information was presented during a City Council meeting on December 1.
The section of Jimmy Durante Boulevard designated for the upgrade spans approximately 0.75 miles and varies in width from 40 to 112 feet, featuring multiple lanes in each direction, dedicated turn lanes, a striped median, and bicycle lanes for both northbound and southbound travel.
The total budget of $3.5 million is allocated as follows: $57,300 for design, an estimated $2,760,000 for construction costs, a 10% contingency of $276,000, and $406,700 earmarked for construction management, inspection, materials testing, and engineering services during construction.
Funding for this project comes from various sources, including the General Fund, SB-1, TransNet, Measure Q, State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds, and the Regional Transportation Congestion Improvement Program. The multi-faceted approach to funding highlights the city’s commitment to improving its infrastructure while ensuring safety for all road users.
As construction progresses, Del Mar residents and visitors can anticipate a more efficient and safer travel experience along this vital corridor.
