Local elected officials, city staff, project partners, and community members gathered at the groundbreaking ceremony on August 26, 2025. Courtesy photo.
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VENTURA — The City of Ventura broke ground this week on the long-anticipated Olivas Park Drive Extension and Levee Project, a transformative $51 million capital improvement that will improve traffic circulation, strengthen flood protection, and expand commercial development opportunities in East Ventura. Construction is expected to continue through summer 2027.
“This isn’t just a road or a levee. It is an investment in Ventura’s future,” said Mayor Dr. Jeannette Sanchez-Palacios. “This project reduces flood risks, eases congestion, and improves access to the Auto Center while activating over 90 acres of undeveloped land and creating the conditions for new businesses and innovation to thrive.”
The project will add nearly a mile of new roadway and levee, including a 4,500-foot extension of Olivas Park Drive and utilities from Golf Course Drive to Auto Center Drive, as well as approximately 5,400 feet of new levee and floodwall along the Santa Clara River. In addition, the project features road widening, pavement upgrades, new traffic signals, flood gates, drainage improvements, utility work, and landscaping. Enhancements will also be made to existing segments of Olivas Park Drive, Perkin Avenue, and Auto Center Drive.
“This project advances key goals in Ventura’s transportation and flood protection plans,” said Public Works Director Charlie Ebeling. “It is a critical investment that will serve our residents, businesses, and visitors for generations.”
Construction will occur Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., excluding holidays. The work will be managed by Filippin Engineering with Toro Enterprises, Inc. as the construction contractor.
Funding sources include Traffic Mitigation Funds, Wastewater Capital, the General Fund, Measure O, Gas Tax, and contributions from adjacent property owners.
Once complete, the project will provide direct access to the Ventura Auto Center, reduce congestion on surrounding roadways, and deliver a new levee system to safeguard properties along the Santa Clara River.
Residents and businesses in the area may experience temporary construction impacts such as full road detours, traffic delays, noise, or brief service interruptions. Advance notice will be provided for any planned water system shutdowns, and crews are committed to minimizing disruptions throughout the project.
For more information and to view a map of the project area, visit www.cityofventura.ca.gov/OlivasExtension