Contra Costa Herald

News Of By and For The People of Contra Costa County, California

Upgrades Ahead: Ygnacio Valley Library to close for major improvements

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Photo: CCC Library

Beginning September 9, reopening approximately May 31, 2027

By Contra Costa County Library

The Ygnacio Valley Library, on Oak Grove Road in Walnut Creek, is preparing to turn an exciting new page. The branch will temporarily close starting September 9 through approximately May 31, 2027, to undergo essential infrastructure and facility improvements designed to enhance climate control, safety, and energy efficiency for the community.

As part of Contra Costa County Library’s ongoing effort to update and maintain its facilities, this project will address critical structural and interior building systems:

  • HVAC System Replacement: Installation of an all-electric, energy-efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures year-round.
  • Roofing Upgrades: Replacement of the building’s roof to protect the facility and ensure long-term stability.
  • Electrical & Lighting Upgrades: Comprehensive updates to electrical infrastructure alongside energy-efficient lighting upgrades throughout the branch.

This renovation project is made possible through dedicated local support from Measure X funds, supplemented by Contra Costa County Library reserves.

  • Closure Timeline: The Ygnacio Valley Library will temporarily close beginning Wednesday, September 9, and reopening approximately May 31, 2027.
    • Tuesday, September 8, is the final day for patrons to pick up existing holds at the Ygnacio Valley branch.
    • Starting September 9, 2026, all uncollected holds will be moved to the Walnut Creek Library (1644 N. Broadway, Walnut Creek).

During the closure period, the book drop and parking lot will be closed. Books and other physical materials can be borrowed or returned at any open Contra Costa County Library branch, including the Walnut Creek, Clayton, Concord and Pleasant Hill libraries.

For account questions during the closure, please call (800) 984-4636.

Full weekend closure of westbound I-80 Alfred Zampa Memorial Carquinez Bridge Aug. 21-24

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Graphics source: Caltrans

By Sabrina Martinez, PIO, Solano County & DeNise Harding, PIO, Contra Costa County, Caltrans

Caltrans construction is scheduled to implement a full closure of Westbound I-80 Alfred Zampa Memorial Carquinez Bridge on Friday, August 21, 2026, at 10:00 PM, and continues until 3:00 AM Monday, August 24, 2026. Construction crews will be working the full weekend to repave the entire westbound bridge deck. Caltrans maintenance crews will also be working in Vallejo from the foot of the bridge to Highway 780 and complete work like maintenance, vegetation control and litter/graffiti cleanup among other tasks.

Photo: Caltrans

According to Caltrans PIO for Solano County Sabrina Martinez, “Beginning Friday…at 8:00 p.m. crews will start reducing lanes until we reach full closure at 10:00 p.m. Crews will then be working on rehabilitating the bridge deck. It means the top layer of the bridge will be removed and replaced with new asphalt for motorists to enjoy a smoother and safer ride.”

Eastbound lanes remain OPEN for travel from the Bay Area to the Central Valley.

Source: Caltrans

Schedule:

Start – Friday, August 21, 2026, at 10:00 PM

End – Monday, August 24, 2026, at 3:00 AM

Note: Pedestrian/Bike Path will be closed for the weekend.

Motorists are advised to plan ahead and expect delays. Please see detour maps and use alternate routes.

Source: Caltrans

Sign up for closure updates here.

I-80 Westbound Carquinez (Al Zampa) Bridge Deck Rehabilitation Project: https://bit.ly/3RS5O2M

Visit the Carquinez Bridge Website: https://bit.ly/3RW3Ka1

For real-time traffic, click on Caltrans QuickMap: https://bit.ly/3SS8A49

Follow us on X: https://x.com/CaltransD4

Or call 1-800-472-7623, 1-800-427-ROAD for state highway conditions statewide.

About Alfred “Al” Zampa

Photo: Caltrans

According to Caltrans, Alfred “Al” Zampa was the first-born son of Emilio and Maria Zampa, Italian immigrants who migrated to the USA from Abruzzi, Italy. Al was born on March 12, 1905 in Selby, California just down the river from where the bridge that bares his name sits. He was the eldest of three brothers and two sisters.

Al started his career in ironwork when he was 20 years old on the first Carquinez Bridge opening in 1927. He worked on all of the highway and railroad bridges in the area, including the San Francisco – Oakland Bay Bridge and the Golden Gate Bridge. In 1936 Al fell from the Golden Gate into a safety net designed by famous bridge engineer Joseph Strauss. He survived the fall but it severely injured him. After recovering Al immediately returned to his job on the bridge and along with other fall survivors, he helped form the Halfway to Hell Club. The highlight of Al’s career came when his two sons joined him as ironworkers to help build the second Carquinez Bridge that would open in 1958 to carry traffic Eastbound on the new Interstate 80 highway.

In 1987, some years after his retirement, on the 50th anniversary of the completion of the Golden Gate Bridge a play called “The Ace” was produced based on Al’s life story. The play ran at Ft. Point in San Francisco for several weeks. Al began to share his story with the media and was interviewed by magazines, radio shows and TV programs such as “On the Road with Charles Kuralt.” Later Al contributed to the documentary “Skywalkers, A Story of the Ironworkers.”

Al always spoke highly of being a union ironworker and the benefits he received as a union member. He was very competitive and did not like to fail. He enjoyed playing pool and coaching little league baseball. He started the first Tri-City Little League with friends in 1947. He coached his Crockett team to victory, winning the league 6 consecutive years. While working, coaching little league baseball, playing pool, or any of his pastimes, Al Zampa was dedicated to achievement.

In March of 2000 ground was broken on a new suspension bridge to replace the original Carquinez Bridge. Al was there to see history repeat itself. This new bridge is named in memory of Crockett’s own Alfred Zampa, an in recognition of the men and women of the building and construction trades who build these great monuments.

See video of Al Zampa and the opening of the new bridge.

 

 

Caltrans: East County Hwy 4 overnight paving and roadway work continues Wednesday night

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Source: Caltrans

Paving project tentatively scheduled to be completed by Summer 2027.

By DeNise Harding, PIO, Contra Costa County, Caltrans

Contra Costa County Caltrans crews continue making progress on State Route 4 tonight, Wednesday, August 19 through Thursday with paving, drainage, electrical and guardrail work scheduled throughout the corridor.

For the safety of the motoring public and our crews, Caltrans Construction has adjusted its schedule to allow crews to continue various operations along State Route 4 (SR-4). Overnight full closures, including lane and ramp closures, on westbound and eastbound SR-4 between SR-160 and Byron Highway will continue tonight and Sunday through Thursday nights, between the hours of 7:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m., as construction progresses. Motorists are advised to plan ahead, allow additional travel time, prepare to merge, and slow for the cone zone. All work is weather dependent and subject to change. For current Caltrans District 4 lane closure information click here.

Full Closure SR-4 — Balfour Road to Byron Highway through 7:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m.

  • Full closures of the conventional highway sections of SR-4 between Balfour Road and Byron Highway through Marsh Creek Road – for paving operations
  • Full Closures will continue through August 2026 throughout this corridor

Eastbound SR-4 — Hillcrest Avenue to SR-160 8:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m.

  • Alternating closures of lanes #3 and #4
  • Hillcrest Avenue on-ramp to eastbound SR-4 — CLOSED for drainage improvements

Westbound SR-4 Ramp Closures 7:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m.

  • Sand Creek Road on-ramp to westbound SR-4 — CLOSED for guardrail work
  • Balfour Road on-ramp to westbound SR-4 — CLOSED for guardrail work
  • Balfour Road off-ramp from westbound SR-4 — CLOSED for electrical work

Eastbound SR-4 Balfour Road Off-Ramp 8:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m.

  • Balfour Road off-ramp from eastbound SR-4 — CLOSED for electrical work

Please note complete closures, as well as lane and ramp closures, will continue along SR-4 Sunday through Thursday nights as construction progresses. The westbound SR-4 closures are expected to reopen by 5:00 a.m., while the eastbound SR-4 to closures are expected to reopen by 8:00 a.m.

Traveling through the SR-4 corridor tonight? Plan ahead and expect delays. Please follow posted detours, allow extra travel time and slow down when approaching crews and equipment. Your attention behind the wheel helps everyone working along the highway get home safely.

Check QuickMap.dot.ca.gov before you head out.

State Route 4 Detour Information for Full Closure

  • Eastbound SR-4 from Antioch, Pittsburg, and Martinez towards Discovery and Stockton: The detour begins at Balfour Road. Take the Balfour Road exit, turn left on Balfour Road, turn right onto Brentwood Boulevard or continue Balfour Road, then turn right into Byron, follow SR-4.
  • Westbound SR-4 from Discovery Bay and Stockton towards Martinez / Antioch/Oakland: The detour begins at the Byron, turn left onto Brentwood Boulevard, turn left into Balfour Road or continue Byron Highway, turn left into Balfour Road, continue Balfour Road, turn right onto the westbound SR-4 on-ramp, and continue on SR-4.
  • Westbound Vasco Road towards Martinez/Antioch/Oakland: The detour begins at Walnut Boulevard. Turn right on to Walnut Boulevard, turn left onto Balfour Road, continue Balfour Road, turn right onto the west-bound SR-4 on-ramp, and continue to SR-4.
  • Eastbound from Martinez/ Antioch Oakland to Livermore: The detour begins at Balfour exit. Left on Balfour Road, continue Balfour Road, take left turn into Walnut Boulevard, turn left Vasco Road, continue Vasco Road.

All work is weather dependent and subject to change.

This paving project is tentatively scheduled to be completed by Summer 2027.

Drivers may experience minor delays and are advised to plan ahead and allow extra time. For 24/7 traffic updates, follow 511.org on Twitter. For real-time traffic, visit Caltrans QuickMap at Quickmap.dot.ca.gov. To view more D4 Projects, visit: Caltrans D4 Traffic Advisory Publications.

Caltrans thanks the public for their patience and cooperation during these necessary closures and improvements. Your understanding helps keep our crew members and roadways safe for everyone.

 

City of Pittsburg to celebrate Central Harbor Park Grand Reopening and Kickoff Party July 26

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Over $3.5 million in improvements completed

By Allen D. Payton

The City of Pittsburg invites the community to celebrate the grand reopening of Central Harbor Park with a family-friendly kickoff party on Sunday, July 26, 2026, from 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Central Harbor Park officially reopened to the public on July 1, 2026. The improvements include:

  • New docks and berths — Increasing marina capacity and access.
  • Expanded restrooms, parking and green space — Creating a more welcoming experience for visitors and families.
  • Shoreline stabilization and ADA pathways — Enhancing resilience and accessibility for all.
  • Modernized event facilities — Encouraging year-round gatherings and civic pride.

With over $3.5 million in Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta Conservancy funding, and after years of planning and construction, Pittsburg’s premier waterfront event space is ready for fishing, sunset walks, gatherings and everyday enjoyment of the Delta.

The improvements were made possible with funding support from the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta Conservancy, a California state agency whose grant funding helped bring this park to life, and the City of Pittsburg’s Waterfront Fund. The City’s Waterfront Fund is funded by lease revenues generated by users of Pittsburg’s granted submerged tidelands.  This is a reinvestment of locally generated non-tax dollars from the private sector, and so far, has totaled over $500,000.

Video screenshots source: City of Pittsburg

Guests will enjoy an evening of community activities along Pittsburg’s beautiful waterfront, including a s’mores experience, fishing demonstration, Public Safety Meet & Greet, DJ, refreshments and a preview of the park’s new event space.

The celebration provides residents and visitors with an opportunity to explore the reopened park, connect with neighbors and local public safety personnel, and learn more about the recreational and event amenities available at Central Harbor Park.

WHAT: Central Harbor Park Grand Reopening and Kickoff Party

WHEN: Sunday, July 26, 2026, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

WHERE: Central Harbor Park, Cutter Avenue off Marina Blvd., Downtown Pittsburg

  • S’mores bar – enjoy classic treats with a waterfront view.
  • Fishing demonstration – learn from local experts.
  • Preview of the new event space – see the upgraded facilities and seating areas.
  • Public Safety Meet & Greet – meet local law enforcement and emergency services.
  • Live DJ – for a festive evening atmosphere.
  • Refreshments – provided throughout the event.

The event is free and open to the public. Families and community members of all ages are encouraged to attend.

Photos: City of Pittsburg

Boat Launch and Fish Cleaning Station Now Open

The public launch ramps are open and the City is happy to bring with it new restrooms and a fish cleaning station, now open daily from 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Whether you’re heading out early for a day on the water or wrapping up your evening catch, these launch ramp amenities are available to support your experience.

The Pittsburg Marina harbor and fuel dock is closed on Sundays. For questions contact the Marina Office at (925) 439-4958 or email marina@pittsburgca.gov.

Background

In 2021 and 2022, City staff conducted outreach to local residents, users of the boat launch, and City waterfront event-goers to determine the community’s priorities for the Central Harbor Park and boat launch area.  These facilities, while aged, are well loved and full of recreators every weekend and often throughout the week.  Via online and in-person surveys, a town hall style community meeting at the park, and many interviews at the facility, staff gathered community input resulting in three major observations:

1) The community values and enjoys the Delta access provided by Central Harbor Park and the boat launch facility. Other than youth-centered park features, the park and launch facilities provide ample opportunity to enjoy the Delta and outdoors.

2) Members of the community often feel unsafe in the project area which impacts their visit frequency.

3) Public infrastructure in the project area is old and worn down, discouraging use and dissuading people from bringing family and friends to enjoy the facilities.

On August 19, 2024, the Pittsburg City Council awarded the construction contract for the project to NTK Construction, and construction began in the fall of 2024 following the groundbreaking on Nov. 15th that year.

For more information about the Pittsburg Marina visit www.pittsburgmarina.com.

Toni Baldazo, City of Pittsburg Community Engagement Officer contributed to this report.

Full closures of Hwy 4 between Balfour and Marsh Creek Roads continue May 31st

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Crews conduct paving work on Highway 4 at Marsh Creek Road in Eastern Contra Costa County. Photo: Caltrans

From 7:30 PM to 5:00 AM

By DeNise Harding, PIO, Caltrans Contra Costa County

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY — Due to unexpected rain over the past two nights in the Brentwood area, Caltrans Construction has unfortunately lost two days from the paving schedule. As a result, Caltrans has revised the schedule for the full closure needed for ongoing paving on State Route 4 (SR-4), spanning from Hillcrest Avenue to Byron Highway. The extended closure will now occur nightly between Balfour Road and Marsh Creek Road along SR-4, beginning May 31, 2026, through June 1, 2026, from 7:30 PM until 5:00 AM each night.

Full Closure of Marsh Creek Road (SR-4) is tentatively set to return Tuesday, June 1, 2026. Access during these times will be limited to local residents, business owners, and their employees. Please note: all scheduled work is weather dependent and may change.

SR-4 Balfour Road to Marsh Creek Detour Information May 31-June 1:

Westbound SR-4 Travelers:

Traffic from Byron and Discovery Bay to Antioch/Martinez : Turn right on Walnut Blvd , continue Walnut Blvd, turn left on Balfour Rd., continue, Balfour Rd., turn right on Balfour Rd on to WB SR-4 on ramp and merge WB SR-4.

Traffic from Livermore and Byron to Antioch/ Martinez: Turn right on Walnut Blvd, continue Walnut Blvd, turn left on Balfour Rd., continue Balfour Rd., turn right on Balfour Rd. WB SR-4 on ramp and merge WB SR-4.

Eastbound SR-4 Travelers:

Traffic from Antioch/Martinez to Discovery Bay/ Byron : Take EB SR-4 Balfour Rd. Exit, turn left on Balfour Rd., continue Balfour Rd., Turn Right on Walnut Blvd, Turn Left on Marsh Creek (SR-4).

Traffic from Antioch/Martinez to Livermore: Take EB SR-4 Balfour Rd. Exit, turn left on Balfour Rd., continue Balfour Rd., Turn Right on Walnut Blvd, continue Walnut Blvd, turn left on Vasco Road.

Source: Caltrans

WHAT TO EXPECT

Drivers should note that Marsh Creek Road (SR-4) will be fully closed overnight, beginning again on June 1, 2026. The closure will take place every Sunday through Thursday night from 7:30 PM to 5:00 AM. To search for current District 4 lane closure information, please click here. This project is tentatively scheduled to be complete by Summer 2027.

State Route 4 Marsh Creek Road Detour Returns June 2, 2026:

  • Westbound SR-4 Travelers: Detour begins at Byron Highway left on Brentwood Boulevard, left on Balfour Road, right on to westbound SR-4.

Source: Caltrans

  • Eastbound SR-4 Travelers: Detour begins at Vasco Road; left on Walnut Boulevard, right on Payne Ave, left on Sellers Ave, right on Brentwood Boulevard, continue on Byron Hwy to eastbound SR-4.

Source: Caltrans

Changeable message signs (CMS) will be posted throughout the corridor to assist drivers. Please follow posted signs and detour routes during these closure periods.

Motorists are advised to expect delays and allow extra travel time. For 24/7 traffic updates, follow 511.org on Twitter. For real-time traffic, visit Caltrans QuickMap.

More than 2,100 new affordable Bay Area homes thanks to state funded cleanup of contaminated land

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Before and after photos of the Nellie Hannon Gateway project in Emeryville. Source: DTSC

Including 43 units in Richmond

For low-income and unhoused residents

By California Department of Toxic Substance Control

EMERYVILLE – More than 2,100 new affordable homes for low-income and unhoused Bay Area residents will be available thanks to state-funded cleanup of contamination on otherwise unusable land across the region.

Bay Area residents in need are beginning to move in. The opening of 90 new homes was celebrated today when state leaders and local officials gathered at the Nellie Hannon Gateway in Emeryville. Thirty-nine of the rental community’s units are reserved for individuals exiting homelessness. The development also includes a food bank on the ground floor. Seventy-six additional affordable homes will open later this spring at the newly constructed Native American Health Center in Oakland. Forty-three homes opened early this month at Legacy Court in Richmond.

The Department of Toxic Substance Control (DTSC) provided funding and oversight of the removal of contamination at these sites.

“Cleaning up contamination is an essential but often invisible part of solving California’s housing crisis. We are transforming places once dominated by pollution into places of endless possibilities. This complex will be more than a place to live. It will be home for dozens of new residents.” – DTSC Director Katherine Butler

Thousands of properties across California sit vacant because of pollution left behind by gas stations, auto repair shops, dry cleaners and industrial facilities. The Nellie Hannon Gateway was once the site of a dry cleaner. The Native American Health Center site was an auto repair shop. Richmond’s Legacy Court site was a gas station and junkyard. Cleanups at these sites are made possible through DTSC’s Equitable Communities Revitalization Grant program. DTSC is the state agency that oversees the investigation and cleanup of contaminated properties in California.

This work has made once unusable land safe for future residents — an often-overlooked opportunity for developers who otherwise see an insurmountable obstacle to building affordable housing in communities with high pollution burdens and economic disadvantages.

DTSC helps local governments, nonprofits and developers clean up and reuse contaminated properties — known as brownfields — for housing, parks, retail and community spaces. Statewide, DTSC is investing more than $130 million for the cleanup and reuse of more than 150 sites across 49 cities, preparing them for new life in communities that have historically faced environmental and economic barriers.

DTSC is part of a statewide effort, led by Governor Gavin Newsom, to address the need for affordable housing and homelessness.

Rendering source: Eden Housing

Richmond’s Legacy Court

According to Eden Housing, Legacy Court, located at 1243, 1300 & 1329 Fred Jackson Way, is a 43-unit new construction family project in Richmond, CA. The proposed development will serve 42 low-income households earning 30-60 percent of the area’s median income (AMI).

The project will set aside thirteen units to support residents who are experiencing homelessness, at risk of experiencing homelessness and residents in need of mental health services. Contra Costa Behavioral Health Services will provide additional support services for these units, including case management, peer support, mental health care, substance use services, and benefits counseling and advocacy.

The development is designed as seven two to three-story buildings that will be situated across three different sites, all of which are located within one block from each other at the intersection of Fred Jackson Way and Sanford Avenue in North Richmond. The project will include a mix of one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom units. One of the units will be set aside for a live-in community manager, helping ensure that the property is well-managed at all times. On-site project amenities for residents will include a community room, community kitchen, laundry rooms, computer lab with high-speed internet, and bike parking. The common area amenities of the development will facilitate the socialization and sense of community that is important to successful developments and will serve as spaces for resident gatherings, community meetings, social events, programming for resident services such as exercise, health and wellness programs, and art, educational, and cultural activities.

Legacy Court is designed as all-electric and will incorporate energy-efficient appliances, and green elements maximized to reduce the carbon footprint of the project.

Reversing Decades of Inaction on Homelessness

Governor Newsom is creating a structural and foundational model for America:

✅ Creating shelter and support — Providing funding and programs for local governments, coupled with strong accountability measures to ensure that each local government is doing its share to build housing, and create shelter and support, so that people living in encampments have a safe place to go. This week, through a $77 million investment from California’s cap and invest program, Los Angeles announced the expansion and redevelopment of the largest public housing project in the region, the Jordan Downs Project.

✅ Addressing mental health and its impact on homelessness — Ending a long-standing 7,000 behavioral health bed shortfall in California by rapidly expanding community treatment centers and permanent supportive housing units. In 2024, voters approved Governor Newsom’s Proposition 1 which is transforming California’s behavioral health systems. When fully awarded, funding from Proposition 1 bonds is estimated to create 6,800 residential treatment beds and 26,700 outpatient treatment slots for behavioral health care.

✅ Creating new pathways for those who need the most help — Updating conservatorship laws for the first time in 50 years to include people who are unable to provide for their personal safety or necessary medical care, in addition to food, clothing, or shelter, due to either severe substance use disorder or serious mental health illness. Creating a new CARE court system that creates court-administered plans for up to 24 months for people struggling with schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, often with substance use challenges.

✅ Streamlining and prioritizing building of new housing — Governor Newsom made creating more housing a state priority for the first time in history. He has signed into law groundbreaking reforms to break down systemic barriers that have stood in the way of building the housing Californians need, including broad CEQA reforms.

✅ Removing dangerous encampments — Governor Newsom has set a strong expectation for all local governments to address encampments in their communities and help connect people with support. In 2024, Governor Newsom filed an amicus brief with the Supreme Court defending communities’ authority to clear encampments. After the Supreme Court affirmed local authority, Governor Newsom issued an executive order directing state entities and urging local governments to clear encampments and connect people with support, using a state-tested model that helps ensure encampments are addressed humanely and people are given adequate notice and support.

In 2025, just a year after he issued an executive order urging local governments to better address encampments, the Governor announced his SAFE Task Force to address encampments in California’s ten largest cities. In just a few months, the task force has addressed encampments in San Francisco, Los Angeles, Long Beach, Sacramento, and Fresno — connecting dozens of people with shelter. Since 2021, Caltrans has removed more than 19,000 encampments on state right-of-way and collected approximately 354,000 cubic yards of litter and debris.

About Department of Toxic Substance Control

DTSC’s Mission is to protect California’s people, communities and environment from toxic substances, to enhance economic vitality by restoring contaminated land, and to compel manufacturers to make safer consumer products. Learn more about the department at About DTSC | Department of Toxic Substances Control.

Eight public works projects in Contra Costa County, BART receive awards

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The Bollinger Canyon Road Bicycle and Pedestrian Overcrossing Project received three awards. Source: ACEC California

Iron Horse Trail Overcrossing in San Ramon named 2026 APWA Project of the Year, two more awards

County Public Works receives three project awards

By Allen D. Payton

Eight public works projects in Contra Costa County and BART received awards from the American Public Works Association (APWA) Northern California Chapter and American Council of Engineering Companies of California (ACEC).

APWA Nor Cal Chapter Awards

The Iron Horse Trail Bicycle and Pedestrian Overcrossing at Bollinger Canyon Road was named the 2026 Project of the Year Winner by the APWA Northern California Chapter. Other winners honored at the 2026 Project Awards Luncheon in Vallejo on March 5th include:

BART for the Next Generation Faire Gates;

Central Contra Costa Sanitary District for the Phase 1 Stream and Aeration Blower Systems Renovations;

City of Antioch for its Brackish Water Desalination Plant (see below);

City of Pleasant Hill for the Contra Costa Blvd. Complete Streets Improvements Projects;

City of Richmond for the Ferry to Bridge to Greenway project;

Contra Costa County Public Works for three projects including the County Administration Building B, Saranap Trash Capture Installation and the Wildcat Canyon Road Slope Failure Repair.

A total of 25 projects were nominated and 15 received an award. All winners will be moving on to the APWA National at Public Works Expo 2026 in Houston, TX in August for consideration.

The APWA Northern California Chapter is a dynamic and engaged community of professionals dedicated to advancing the goals and mission of our association at the local level. The chapter is an integral part of the larger APWA network, representing a vibrant community of professionals in Northern California. We are committed to fostering professional growth, facilitating meaningful connections, and promoting excellence within the industry.

Source: City of San Ramon

Bollinger Canyon Road Overcrossing Project Also Wins League of California Cities Award

The Bollinger Canyon Road Bicycle and Pedestrian Overcrossing Project also received the 2026 Outstanding Local Streets and Roads Project Award from the California State Association of Counties (CSAC), League of California Cities (Cal Cities), and County Engineers Association of California (CEAC). It is the highest award presented annually at the California League of Cities Public Works Officers Institute Spring Conference.

“Counties and cities across California lead in delivering sustainable and enduring transportation projects,” said Johannes Hoevertsz, President of CEAC and Sonoma County Public Infrastructure Director. “By applying innovative approaches, local governments are strengthening mobility while protecting the long-term performance of their streets and roads.”

Source: CA League of Cities

This year’s overall winner, the City of San Ramon, is recognized for its Iron Horse Trail Bicycle and Pedestrian Overcrossing at Bollinger Canyon Road, a transformative project that enhances safety and access for pedestrians and cyclists.

Overall Winner:
Iron Horse Trail Bicycle and Pedestrian Overcrossing at Bollinger Canyon Road, City of San Ramon

The $29M Iron Horse Trail Bicycle and Pedestrian Overcrossing at Bollinger Canyon Road is a 340-foot, cable-stayed bridge that provides a safe, grade-separated crossing over one of San Ramon’s busiest corridors.  Anchored by 900 feet of MSE wall approaches, it eliminates a previously signaled crossing and completes a link in the 30-mile regional Iron Horse Trail system. The project integrated context-sensitive landscaping with over 7,000 native and drought-tolerant plants and 80 trees along with community gathering spaces enhanced by architectural lighting.

“This project represents years of thoughtful planning and hard work from our Engineering team to improve safety and accessibility across one of the city’s busiest roadways,” a Facebook post on Thursday, March 12th reads. “Congratulations to our Engineering team for their dedication and hard work in bringing this important project to life!”

The overcrossing officially opened to the public on Saturday, July 19, 2025.

During the ACEC California awards ceremony on Feb. 19, 2026. Photo: ACEC California

ACEC California Awards

The Contra Costa Transportation Authority and City of San Ramon received an Honor Award from ACEC California, one of eight in the San Francisco Region, for the Iron Horse Trail Overcrossing at Bollinger Canyon Road. The project was submitted by the Oakland office of COWI North America, Inc., of the ACEC California Bay Bridge Chapter.

According to ACEC California, COWI was contracted by the Contra Costa Transportation Authority for the overcrossing project — a striking new pedestrian and cyclist bridge that provides a safe crossing across the busiest arterial corridor in the city and uninterrupted connectivity along the Iron Horse Trail. The City of San Ramon is the owner.

As Prime Consultant and Engineer of Record, COWI led the design, engineering, and design support during construction for the $21.6 million project. The result is a 340-foot, six-span cable-stayed bridge with 570 feet of retaining wall approaches, a central V-shaped steel pylon, and architecturally integrated lighting and railing systems.

The overcrossing enhances safety and connectivity for tens of thousands of San Ramon residents and trail users along the region’s most popular trail. While the project utilized its full budget, COWI’s innovative design and accelerated construction strategies generated substantial indirect savings by minimizing traffic disruption, shortening construction duration, and reducing environmental and community impacts.

“This bridge is a celebration of safe, sustainable design and community placemaking,” said Matt Baughman, Associate Project Director at COWI. “From concept to completion, COWI’s team worked closely with our client and stakeholders to deliver a truly iconic project.”

Source: City of Antioch

There were two other local ACEC California winners including the City of Antioch which received a Merit Award for its Brackish Water Desalination Plant, submitted for consideration by Carollo Engineers’ Walnut Creek office of the East Bay Chapter. The plant was inaugurated on September 15, 2025. According to the City of Antioch, this facility strengthens Antioch’s water supply by using a combination of existing and new infrastructure to increase reliability and provide greater operational flexibility. This facility is a landmark investment in the City’s future, ensuring a more resilient water supply for the community.

The City of Martinez received a Commendation Award from ACEC California for the Alhambra Avenue Downtown Improvements, submitted by LCC Engineering & Surveying, Inc. of Martinez, also of the ACEC California East Bay Chapter.

According to LCC, the company was hired by the City of Martinez in Winter of 2022 to provide land survey and civil design services for this Complete Street Improvement Project which included one mile of mill and fills, base-failure repairs, crack-sealing and micro-surfacing, re-striping to include Class 2 buffered bike lanes, new ADA compliant curb ramps and crosswalks.  The project was a federally funded project which triggered extensive environmental studies due to the proximity to significant historical buildings.  LCC teamed with HDR for the extensive environmental studies required.  However, LCC performed all of the right of way and utility coordination to obtain the Right of Way Certification for the Project. Construction was completed in spring 2025.

LCC has provided civil engineering and land surveying services to the City of Martinez since the firm was established in 1954.

The ACEC California’s annual Engineering Excellence Awards competition recognizes outstanding achievements in engineering and land surveying projects completed by California firms. Entries are accepted into one of 12 project categories: studies, research and consulting engineering services; building/technology systems; structural systems; surveying and mapping technology; environmental; waste and storm water; water resources; transportation; special projects; small projects; energy; and industrial and manufacturing processes and facilities.

Projects were recognized for demonstrating an exceptional degree of innovation, complexity, achievement, and value. Twenty projects earned the prestigious Honor Award distinction, twenty-seven were recognized with Merit Awards, and fifteen Commendation Awards were granted.

“We are proud to recognize these ACEC California firms for delivering an exceptional degree of value and technical excellence to our communities,” said Tyler Munzing, Executive Director of ACEC California. “Quality infrastructure—from dependable drinking water to safe, efficient roadways and structurally sound public spaces—is essential to our state’s success. These award-winning projects showcase how our engineering and land surveying firms are passionately building a more resilient and connected California.”

The awards were announced at the Engineering Excellence Awards Banquet at the Disneyland Hotel on February 19, 2026. Themed “Dream Builders: Engineering the Magic of Tomorrow”, the conference highlighted how engineers and land surveyors can influence the future through innovation, imagination and impact. The annual celebration was also a fundraiser for the ACEC California Scholarship Foundation 501(c)3, which provides scholarship awards to graduate and undergraduate students who are recognized for their notable and outstanding academic achievements.

Learn more about the awards:

2026 Projects of the Year Award – APWA Northern California Chapter

2026 Engineering Excellence Award Winners – American Council of Engineering Companies of California

City of Martinez announces opportunity to revitalize historic Old Train Depot

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The Martinez Old Train Depot on Marina Street in downtown. Photo: City of Martinez

Proposals due April 26, 2026

By Eve Kearney, Executive Assistant, City Manager’s Office, City of Martinez

Martinez, CA — The City of Martinez is pleased to announce the release of a Request for Qualifications and Conceptual Proposals (RFQ/P) inviting experienced development teams to submit proposals for the revitalization of the Old Train Depot, located at 401 Marina Vista Avenue.

Constructed in 1877, the Old Train Depot served as Martinez’s first train station and remains a recognizable landmark within the community. Positioned between downtown Martinez and the Marina Waterfront, the building represents a unique opportunity to rehabilitate and reactivate an important historic structure while supporting the continued economic vitality of the downtown area.

The Old Train Depot occupies the most central, visible location in Downtown Martinez. The site has a rich history and it is envisioned that the building would be transformed into a destination – with some combination of food, retail, cultural, and/or activated uses – that will help increase tourism and visitors to the Downtown. In 2026, the City will be seeking a development team that has the appropriate expertise, financing, approach, and vision to successfully bring the property back to active use.

Martinz Old Train Depot location map. Source: City of Martinez

Over the past year, the City has taken several steps to prepare the site for redevelopment, including completing compliance with the State’s Surplus Land Act, conducting a Historic Resource Evaluation, obtaining a Preliminary Title Report, and advancing hazardous materials remediation.

The City is now seeking development teams with expertise in historic rehabilitation and adaptive reuse to restore the building and introduce a vibrant use that complements the downtown and enhances the visitor experience. Potential proposals should demonstrate a thoughtful approach to preserving the character of the structure while activating the site with a viable and engaging use.

“This building represents an important piece of Martinez’s history,” said Mayor Brianne Zorn. “Revitalizing the Old Train Depot gives us the opportunity to preserve a landmark while creating a new destination that supports our local businesses and strengthens connections between Downtown and the waterfront.”

Historic photo of the Martinez Old Train Depot. Source: City of Martinez

Site History

The Old Train Depot was built to provide passenger and freight service for the newly arrived Southern Pacific Railroad. In 1916, the building was enlarged to handle booming railway freight business. When the Martinez-Benicia Bridge opened in 1930, the Depot took on increased prominence as a major stop along national railway routes, and it saw an especially high volume of military traffic during World War II. In 1941 the building experienced a major remodel and modernization. In 1982, the building was remodeled one final time to adapt it to Amtrak service. In 2001 a new Amtrak station opened two blocks west of the Old Train Depot; and since 2001 the Old Train Depot has been vacant and periodically used for storage.

The RFQ/P process will allow the City to evaluate both the qualifications of development teams and their conceptual vision for rehabilitating and activating the building. Following review of proposals, the City may enter into negotiations with a selected development team to further advance plans for the property.

The RFQ/P will be available on the City of Martinez website beginning March 11, 2026, with proposals due April 26, 2026.

Interested parties can learn more about the opportunity by visiting: https://www.cityofmartinez.org/departments/planning/major-development-projects/old-train-depot

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Contra Costa Public Works to perform Vasco Road median delineator repair work Feb. 9

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Vasco Road Delineator Work Area Map. Source: CCC Public Works Dep’t

By Kelly Kalfsbeek, Community & Media Relations Coordinator, PIO, Contra Costa County Public Works Department

February 3, 2026, Brentwood, CA – The Contra Costa County Public Works Department will repair delineators to enhance safety on Vasco Road between Camino Diablo and the Alameda County Line on Monday, February 9, 2026, barring unforeseen circumstances. The work will occur from 9:00 a.m. through 4:00 p.m., weather permitting. The work will be scheduled to minimize impacts to commute traffic. Message boards will be posted to advise drivers of the scheduled work. A pilot car will be used to direct traffic through the work area. Drivers can expect delays of 20-30 minutes and are encouraged to use alternative routes.

About Contra Costa County Public Works Department:

The Contra County Public Works Department (CCCPWD) is responsible for the maintenance and operation of over 650 miles of roads, 79 miles of streams and channels, and over 150 County buildings. CCCPWD services include parks and recreation, sandbag distribution, flood control, road and facilities maintenance, and storm water management. CCCPWD operates two airports, Buchanan Field Airport in Concord and Byron Airport in Byron. For more information about CCCPWD, please visit us at: www.cccpublicworks.org.

For more information contact Jenna Castro (916) 900-6623.

Vasco Road Safety Improvements Project construction continues through Nov. 21

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Source: CCC Public Works

Walnut Boulevard to Frisk Creek Bridge

By Kelly Kalfsbeek, Community & Media Relations Coordinator, PIO, Contra Costa County Public Works Department

November 6, 2025, Byron, CA- The Contra Costa County Public Works Department is continuing construction on the Vasco Road Safety Improvements Project – Walnut Boulevard to Frisk Creek Bridge. Work will continue through Friday, November 21, 2025, barring unforeseen circumstances and weather permitting. Message boards will alert drivers about the work. Drivers should expect delays of up to 10 minutes through the construction zone and consider alternative routes during working hours.

The work will occur in multiple phases:

Phase 1 (continuing through Friday, November 14) work will occur between 8:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday (excluding holidays) and consists of centerline rumble strip installation, centerline striping, and channelizer placement.

Phase 2 (Wednesday, November 19, through Friday, November 21) work will occur Wednesday through Friday nights, starting at 8:00 p.m. and lasting until 5:00 a.m. the following morning. The work includes improvements to the traffic signal lights for increased visibility at the intersections of Vasco Road and Walnut Boulevard, and Vasco Road and Camino Diablo.

Additional work on the signals may occur during the day, with minimal to no impacts to traffic expected.

Funding for this project is provided by State Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) funds and Local Road Funds.  For more information, visit: https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/9962/Vasco-Road-Safety-Improvements-Project–.

For Construction Status contact at Carlos Melendez (510) 385-0506.

About Contra Costa County Public Works Department:

Contra Costa County Public Works Department (CCCPWD) maintains over 660 miles of roads, 150 miles of streams, channels, and other drainage, and over 150 County buildings throughout Contra Costa County. CCCPWD provides services such as Parks and Recreation, Sandbag Distribution, and Flood Control throughout unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County.  CCCPWD operates two airports, Buchanan Field Airport in Concord and Byron Airport in Byron. For more information about CCCPWD, please visit us at: www.cccpublicworks.org.