Santa Maria eyesore alley getting new sidewalk

A new sidewalk is coming to a problematic alley in Santa Maria. The project is behind Depot Street, just off West Morrison, behind the railroad tracks.

Santa Maria’s goal is to improve pedestrian safety and decrease illegal dumping. City officials say the alley has been an eyesore for some time.

“We also think that with this project installing enhanced lighting and a fence and narrowing the drivable area of the alleyway, it will detour the dumping from occurring,” said City Public Information Manager Mark Vandekamp.

The alley is also between two schools and Vandekamp said the City expects the enhancements will improve student safety. The project is being paid for with a grant and gas tax funds.

New construction to the alley should start late next month or early February.