College - Author 1
College of Architecture and Environmental Design
Department - Author 1
Construction Management Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BS in Construction Management
Date
6-2026
Primary Advisor/Subject Matter Expert (SME)
Eric Brinkman, College of Architecture and Environmental Design, Construction Management Department
Abstract/Summary
The California Boulevard railroad underpass in San Luis Obispo has served as an informal pedestrian route for Cal Poly students since pedestrian access across the adjacent railroad tracks was restricted in 2009. Despite its frequent use, the underpass presents challenges related to lighting, drainage, surface conditions, and seasonal flooding that affect safety and accessibility. Previous studies documented these concerns and proposed improvement concepts; however, no significant physical improvements have been implemented. This project evaluates the factors contributing to the lack of improvements and examines practical strategies for enhancing the underpass within existing regulatory, environmental, and jurisdictional constraints. Methods included a review of prior studies, field observations, stakeholder analysis, and a survey of current tunnel users. Findings indicate that lighting and visibility are the primary concerns among users, while ownership, liability, and permitting requirements remain the greatest barriers to permanent structural improvements. The deliverables include recommended incremental improvements, concluding that vegetation management and solar lighting represent the most feasible opportunities for improving safety and usability while avoiding many of the challenges that have prevented previous proposals from advancing.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/cmsp/964
Poster Board