COnstruction updates

The Grand Avenue transformation is reaching exciting milestones as we move through our final stages! This past weekend marked a significant moment for our community as our teams began planting Eastern Redbud trees along Subphase 1 (Juniper to Kalmia). While these young trees may appear bare during their winter dormancy, they've been strategically planted during this optimal season. Come spring, Grand Avenue will come alive with their stunning pink-purple blooms, followed by charming heart-shaped leaves that will provide a golden canopy in fall. 

Moving into Subphase 2 (Kalmia to Broadway), our progress continues. The construction team is in the final stages of concrete work, crafting expanded sidewalks that will enhance the pedestrian experience along Grand Avenue. These wider, more welcoming pathways are expected to be completed by the end of next week, possibly sooner, creating a more walkable and accessible downtown environment.

In Subphase 3 (Broadway to Maple), we're making progress while maintaining business access. This week, our team is completing demolition work, deliberately preserving sidewalks near businesses to ensure continuous pedestrian access. By mid-February, you'll begin to see the exciting outline of the new Broadway traffic circle taking shape – a feature designed to improve traffic flow and create a distinctive gateway to this section of Grand Avenue. The entire project remains on track for completion in Spring 2025, bringing your reimagined Grand Avenue to life.

For those navigating the area, please note current traffic adjustments: The Broadway and Grand intersection is temporarily closed, with Valley Parkway and 2nd Avenue serving as alternate routes. While the Kalmia traffic circle is now open and serving the Juniper to Kalmia corridor, the section from Kalmia to Maple remains closed to vehicles during construction. Pedestrians near the Broadway intersection should follow posted signage for designated walkways. We deeply appreciate your continued support as we work to create a more vibrant, accessible, and beautiful Grand Avenue for our entire community.

Dinner First, Dessert Next!

Outdoor dining is open along Subphase 1! Come to see the newest views of Grand Avenue and stay to enjoy a delicious meal at some of your favorite restaurants! 

Sweeten your calendar—our chocolate event is coming! The Downtown Business Association's Chocolate Festival is next weekend, February 15, so stop by to sample delicious chocolate and explore the new Grand Avenue! Get your tickets now on their website. 

Construction details

The Grand Avenue Vision Project is all about preserving Escondido’s historic small-town look and feel while infusing new energy and vibrancy into the heart of Escondido. This exciting initiative aims to transform Grand Avenue into a welcoming and pedestrian-friendly corridor and boost the economic vitality of our downtown area. 

Construction Hours and Details 

Construction will take place Monday through Friday from 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. During the construction of Phase II, Grand Avenue will be closed to through traffic. However, pedestrian access will remain open to all businesses.  

Free parking is available throughout the duration of the project and can be found using the interactive parking map. Please be sure to observe all traffic control signs and do not move traffic cones or barriers. To help protect public safety, please remain on the designated pedestrian walkways.

Questions and Project Information 

Have any questions or comments? We have created several resources that will be updated regularly to ensure construction impacts are readily accessible.

• City’s website: https://www.escondido.gov/300/Grand-Avenue-Vision-Project
• Project hotline: 760-839-4822 
• Project email: grandavenueproject@escondido.gov