Long Beach Reopened Colorado Street After Construction
The East Long Beach road reopened as part of a multi-million dollar restoration project for the Colorado Lagoon.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Construction
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Colorado Street in East Long Beach has officially reopened to traffic following an extended closure for a major infrastructure project. The effort aims to restore the Colorado Lagoon by creating a new tidal connection to Marina Stadium.
Why it matters
This infrastructure work seeks to reverse the impact of past development that restricted water flow into the lagoon. By constructing a new tidal channel, the project intends to return water channels to their previous natural state.
The infrastructure project has seen costs rise to $32.5 million, an increase from the original $26.3 million estimate. Work continues at the site, which once sat within the footprint of the former 2,400-acre Los Cerritos wetlands.
The players
Friends of Colorado Lagoon
This advocacy organization was formed in 2001 to support the preservation and restoration of the local waterway.
The details
Workers have been excavating Marina Vista Park to establish a new tidal channel, a process that included installing sheet piles to blockade water during demolition. The project faced specific delays after the discovery of asbestos during the construction process.
Timeline
November 2022 marked the initial closure of the area and the selection of a project contractor.
October 2, 2026 was the official date Colorado Street reopened to traffic.
Market Landscape
This restoration effort marks a departure from the mid-century urban planning trend that prioritized drainage and development over ecological connectivity. The city is now re-evaluating historical infrastructure to prioritize environmental restoration and tidal health.
Commuters in East Long Beach can once again use Colorado Street for travel, though they should remain aware that Eliot Street stays closed. Pedestrians currently have access to the area via a temporary path maintained throughout the ongoing construction.
The takeaway
Large-scale infrastructure projects often face budget escalations and unforeseen environmental hurdles like asbestos remediation. Residents should anticipate lingering traffic impacts while crews finalize the remaining excavation work at the lagoon site.
Further reading
For more updates on local improvements, visit our Construction section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Longbeachize.
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