City reveals ambitious infrastructure upgrades for El Centro

During a recent city council meeting, Public Works Director Abraham Campos presented a comprehensive update on various infrastructure projects underway in El Centro, emphasizing the city's commitment to enhancing community safety and accessibility.

The meeting featured a high-tech presentation using an ArcGIS story map, showcasing significant improvements funded through various sources. Campos highlighted several key projects, including the $700,000 Commercial Avenue improvements, which have benefitted local industrial users, and the Evan Hughes Highway Rehabilitation Project, a collaborative effort with Imperial County to enhance traffic flow and public transportation access.

Notably, the ongoing work on Imperial Avenue has reached completion for its first two phases, with the third phase set to connect the Buena Vista subdivision to the freeway. This project has already sparked interest in local development, indicating a positive trend for the area.

Another major initiative discussed was the Hakadanga Gardens project, which aims to improve affordable housing and add bike lanes, enhancing multimodal transportation options. The project has secured an additional $2.8 million for further improvements, including better connectivity for local neighborhoods.

Campos also addressed the city's sidewalk initiative, which will install approximately 7,700 square feet of new sidewalks and over 50 ADA-compliant ramps, focusing on areas near schools and parks. This $800,000 project is expected to be completed by spring 2025.

In a significant safety enhancement, the city plans to introduce pedestrian hybrid beacons at key locations, including along Imperial Avenue, to improve pedestrian safety. These signals will provide a more effective warning to drivers, ensuring safer crossings for residents.

The meeting concluded with council members expressing gratitude for the updates and the ongoing efforts to improve the quality of life in El Centro. The projects discussed reflect a proactive approach to urban development, aiming to address both current needs and future growth opportunities in the community.