Cole Grade widening project heads to Board of Supervisors

Valley Center residents brace for major road construction and disruption

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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The $27.25 million Cole Grade Road expansion project in Valley Center is set to go before the San Diego County Board of Supervisors this week for funding approval. The project, divided into two phases, will widen the road from two to three lanes and add bike lanes and a trail. Local officials warn the construction will be "very disruptive" for the community, urging residents to provide feedback and report any issues. The county plans to create a project website, hotline, and on-site construction manager to keep the public informed and address concerns.

Why it matters

The Cole Grade Road widening is the largest public works project in Valley Center since the early 2000s. It will significantly impact traffic flow and daily commutes in the area for several years. Proactive communication and community engagement will be crucial to mitigate disruptions and maintain public support for the project.

The details

Phase 1 of the project, about 1 mile long, is set to begin construction in mid-2026 and wrap up by late 2027. Phase 2 will then start in mid-2028 and finish by late 2029. The project will widen Cole Grade Road between Fruitvale Road and Pauma Heights Road from two lanes to three, while adding bike lanes and a trail on the west side. Utility work by SDG&E and AT&T is already underway to prepare for the road construction.

  • The Board of Supervisors will vote on funding for the $27.25 million project this week.
  • Phase 1 construction is anticipated to start in mid-2026 and be completed by late 2027.
  • Phase 2 construction is proposed to begin in mid-2028 and finish by late 2029.

The players

Bob Littlejohn

The point person for the Cole Grade Road expansion project on the Valley Center Planning Group.

Ryan Lau

Program manager representing the San Diego County Department of Public Works and Capital Improvements Program.

Bill Morgan

Program manager representing the San Diego County Department of Public Works and Capital Improvements Program.

Michael Kenney

Traffic engineer for the San Diego County Department of Public Works.

Lt. Michael Tingley

Commander of the Valley Center Sheriff's substation.

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What they’re saying

“It's going to be very disruptive for our community. If you have an issue, don't let it fester. Get on the hotline or contact me so we can get the issue resolved.”

— Bob Littlejohn, Valley Center Planning Group (valleycenter.com)

“We don't live in the community so it's very important to get this feedback.”

— Bill Morgan, Program manager, San Diego County Department of Public Works (valleycenter.com)

“I feel privileged to work here. Valley Center is a great community and we want to keep it safe.”

— Lt. Michael Tingley, Valley Center Sheriff's substation commander (valleycenter.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This major road project will significantly impact Valley Center residents for several years, underscoring the importance of proactive community engagement and communication from local officials to address concerns and minimize disruptions.