Supervisors ask contractor to revisit July closure plan for Avila Beach roundabout after business, bike groups warn of summer impacts

San Luis Obispo County supervisors voted 5-0 on May 1 to ask Public Works and the project contractor to return to the board with updated plans for the Avila Beach Drive roundabout work after residents, business owners and bicycle advocates warned that a 40‑day intersection closure during peak summer months could disrupt emergency access, events and visitor traffic.

The board’s action directed staff to ask CalPortland and its subcontractors to explore alternative phasing or timing, expand outreach to businesses and event organizers, and return with a report and recommended mitigation measures at the May 6 meeting. Chairperson Ortiz Lehi made the request on the record and the board agreed to re‑agenda the item for next week.

Why it matters: Public commenters and several supervisors said the closure, as currently scheduled, falls in the region’s busiest tourism period and could hurt small businesses that depend on summer traffic. Speakers urged the county to prioritize clear communications, a dedicated construction liaison, daily coordination with event organizers and a protected temporary biking route during the closure.

Public concerns and staff response

Visit SlowCal urged the board to approve the roundabout but warned the planned closure will come during peak visitor season. “We support the Avila Beach Drive Roundabout project,” Whitney Chaney said, “however…we have concerns regarding the upcoming closure.” Chaney recommended proactive business outreach, wayfinding, marketing support and real‑time…