Western Avenue Tunneling Will Disrupt Traffic for Two Months
San Pedro business owners should prepare for lane closures and commute delays starting October 13.
Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in Remote Work
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Drilling on the seven-mile Clearwater tunnel project resumes on Western Avenue near Fifth Street on October 13, 2026. The work requires a southbound lane closure on Western Avenue in San Pedro between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. on weekdays.
Why it matters
The activity is part of a multi-year effort to replace aging infrastructure built in the 1930s that was stalled by a tunnel breach in July 2025. Operators in the area must account for transit delays during the two-month work window.
The project spans 7 miles from Carson to Royal Palms Beach, with resumed drilling requiring a southbound lane closure on Western Avenue for a minimum of two months. The schedule is subject to potential adjustments based on winter weather and holiday work interruptions.
The players
Clearwater project
A massive infrastructure undertaking replacing aging regional wastewater systems spanning 7 miles from Carson to San Pedro.
The details
The work involves geological investigation to assess conditions following the 2025 breach that stranded workers deep underground. Drilling operations will occur daily from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., restricting traffic flow through the San Pedro site. This phase aims to stabilize the area before completing the replacement of the system, which initially began in 2019.
Timeline
1930s: The original sewage tunnel system was constructed.
2019: The Clearwater infrastructure project commenced.
July 2025: A tunnel breach occurred, causing a work stoppage.
October 13, 2026: Drilling resumes on Western Avenue.
December 2026: The minimum two-month drilling period concludes.
Market Landscape
This restart follows the July 2025 tunnel breach that forced a complete halt to the 7-mile infrastructure expansion. The current phase prioritizes safety testing after that incident, delaying the overall project timeline for the system that dates back to the 1930s.
Local businesses should plan for delivery delays and reduced customer access due to the southbound lane closure on Western Avenue. Review logistics schedules for the next two months to account for predictable peak-hour congestion near Fifth Street.
The takeaway
Large-scale utility projects often face extended volatility after safety incidents, necessitating a buffer in your operational logistics. Monitor the project portal for shifts in the two-month work schedule that could impact local accessibility.
Further reading
For more information on navigating infrastructure updates in the city, visit the Remote Work section.
More information
For project updates and traffic notices, view the Clearwater project information portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Daily Breeze.
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