North Coast Engineering is proud to be part of an exciting transformation coming to Halcyon Road in Arroyo Grande. The city’s new Complete Streets project aims to make one of the busiest roads in the area safer and more accessible for pedestrians and cyclists while enhancing the overall driving experience. Construction will begin in the spring of 2026, and this project hopes to impact the daily lives of residents and visitors significantly.

Halcyon Road, a key route connecting important businesses, schools, and hospitals, currently lacks sufficient space for pedestrians and cyclists. Addressing this infrastructure gap has become a priority as the city’s population grows. The Complete Streets project, led by the city of Arroyo Grande and guided by city engineer Shannon Sweeney, aims to transform the road into a more pedestrian- and bike-friendly space.

A Safer, More Accessible Halcyon Road

The plan includes bike lanes, roundabouts at busy intersections, and creating protected spaces for pedestrians and cyclists. This shift will help ensure that residents and visitors can more safely and easily travel to destinations on foot or by bike rather than relying solely on cars.

“We want to transform Halcyon Road from a vehicle-centric road to one that is much more appealing and safe for those who use alternative forms of transportation,” said Shannon Sweeney. “This project will look vastly different and create a safer environment for everyone who uses the road.”

Addressing Concerns and Supporting Local Businesses

While the project is met with enthusiasm, there are concerns about how construction could impact traffic flow and local businesses. Long-time Arroyo Grande resident and cyclist Lary Robinson shared his worries about traffic disruption during construction. However, city officials are committed to minimizing disruption and maintaining access for all road users.

Stephanie Zatzke, the owner of 9 Round, a local kickboxing studio on Halcyon Road, has expressed support for the project, particularly the focus on pedestrian safety. As someone who drives and walks the road daily, Zatzke has seen firsthand the need for safer walkways and clearer pedestrian zones.

“Safety first. We need to make sure small-town pedestrians can get by. It gets pretty hairy sometimes,” Zatzke said. “It’s a little worrisome, but we’ll adapt just like we did with COVID. Surround yourself with good people and do the best with what you’ve got.”

As construction progresses, local businesses like Zatzke hope the city will consider them and support them through any disruptions. North Coast Engineering is committed to ensuring that the project moves forward with as little inconvenience as possible while delivering long-term benefits to the community.

A Commitment to Safety and Accessibility

This Complete Streets project is not just about infrastructure; it’s about creating a safer, more sustainable environment for all forms of transportation in Arroyo Grande. Adding bike lanes, pedestrian spaces, and roundabouts will help improve safety for everyone, whether they’re walking, biking, or driving. The project will also make Halcyon Road more attractive for businesses and residents while providing a model for future infrastructure improvements.

We’re excited to be part of this important project and look forward to the positive changes it will bring to Arroyo Grande. North Coast Engineering is proud to work alongside the city, local businesses, and residents to make Halcyon Road safer and more accessible.

Special thanks to KSBY for covering this project.

Stay tuned for more updates as we work towards a safer, more connected Halcyon Road!