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Capitola to Reopen Stockton Avenue Bridge After Emergency Repairs; Full Condition Report Due April 9

Capitola City Council · March 27, 2026

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Summary

City staff said emergency repairs to the 100‑year‑old Stockton Avenue Bridge will allow reopening Monday after cutting during an investigation severed structural steel; a peer‑reviewed condition and cost report from the engineer of record is due April 9.

City staff told the Capitola City Council that emergency repairs to the Stockton Avenue Bridge are complete enough to reopen the structure early Monday after an investigation into flood and structural risk severed some existing steel members.

Director Khan, who presented the update, said crews cut into the bridge deck to create inspection access and, while making field adjustments, severed some structural elements. “With our engineer of record, Biggs Cardoza, we came up with a repair detail that was verified with a third‑party engineering firm, Moffatt & Nichol,” Khan said. Khan said the contractor completed the first concrete pour, would do a second pour the next day and allow curing over the weekend so the bridge can reopen Monday morning.

Khan told the council staff will present a full peer‑reviewed condition report on April 9 that will include structural findings, recommended next steps and cost implications. The city presented photos of the dug openings and described staged repairs that added steel and new concrete to restore integrity.

Members of the business improvement association welcomed the reopening but urged caution about future full replacement of the landmark structure. Karen Hannah, speaking for village businesses, said closures had a significant economic impact during spring break and asked the council not to replace the bridge solely to address debris concerns, noting prior temporary crane operations had handled similar events.

Council members thanked staff for prompt action and emphasized the need for the peer‑reviewed report and cost details before any decisions about long‑term fixes. The April 9 presentation will be the next formal opportunity for the council to review the engineer’s conclusions and cost estimates.