The City of Oceanside began work on Phase II of the Downtown Water and Sewer Replacement Project in March 2026, continuing important upgrades to water and sewer infrastructure in the downtown area.  Initial construction started in the alley south of Myers Street and north of Pacific Street, with work on S. Pacific Street beginning in mid-March and expected to continue through mid-May, subject to change. Affected areas include S. Pacific Street from Seagaze to Tyson and in the alley from Wisconsin to North Tyson. Additional construction began in mid-April on Civic Center Drive north to Windward through mid-May, and on Cleveland Street and the alley east of Cleveland from Wisconsin to Washington through mid-June, with work also occurring in nearby alleys as part of the early project phases. To minimize disruptions, there will be no construction to the west of Myers Street from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Work will also be restricted during popular annual events and weekly downtown markets.

Phase II will replace more than 3 miles of sewer pipes and over 2.5 miles of water pipes, while expanding the downtown recycled water system with nearly one mile of new pipeline. Many of the pipes being replaced are very old, with some sewer lines nearly 100 years old. These upgrades will modernize the system, support future growth, and add new recycled water customers, including public, commercial, and mixed-use residential properties. Recycled water is commonly used for irrigation and helps support Oceanside’s commitment to sustainable and alternative water sources.

Construction for Phase II is expected to continue for approximately two years. Work will take place in phases to help minimize impacts. Properties located near active construction will receive advance notification through mailers and door hangers prior to work beginning nearby.

Traffic will generally be maintained throughout construction. Road closures or detours that impact the public will be limited, and night work will be required through busy intersections. Daytime construction will be restricted to the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with additional limitations in certain high-traffic areas. 

Water and sewer service will be maintained throughout construction. In some cases, brief service interruptions may be necessary during specific phases of work and will be communicated in advance through door hangers.

The project cost is roughly $30 million, and is funded through previously budgeted capital improvement program funds, as well as through state and federal grants.  

Please visit the Oceanside Water Utilities webpage for updates on the project.  Also reach out to our team at (760) 435-5930, or email DTWSP2@oceansideca.org for project-related questions.  

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