Contra Costa Herald

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

Coast-to-Coast relay to celebrate America 250

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Longest continuous, non-motorized relay in world history will have stops in Walnut Creek, Antioch July 6-8

Interested individuals or teams can participate

By Dave Whitson, ADT 250 Relay Director, American Discovery Trail Society

FRONT ROYAL, VA – In 2026, the American Discovery Trail Society (ADTS) celebrates the outdoors and 250 years of our independence with the American Discovery 250 Relay— a 6,800-mile (11,000 km) journey along the entire American Discovery Trail from California to Delaware, traversing through hundreds of cities, towns, villages and hamlets, starting in July and ending around Thanksgiving. This event will be the longest continuous, non-motorized relay in world history. The ADTS invites all to join in the celebration by participating for a day or more in a relay, attending one of over 100 local events, or sharing your story of personal growth and adventure. Together, we commemorate America’s past and unify our country.

Source: ADR250

Specialized Batons

Participants will carry a specialized baton displaying the header and carrying a copy of the Declaration of Independence. There will be three batons to choose from – each engraved with the three founding principles in the document: Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness. There will be three different colors assigned to each baton as well – red, gold and blue.

Source: ADR250

We have provided an informational webinar presenting an overview of the event which you can link to HERE.

Interested participants or teams are asked to register for free at discoverytrail.org/america-250-relay.  Runners, cyclists, hikers, wheelchair users and horseback riders are all encouraged to take part. We also encourage interest from those who wish to help with logistics, welcoming events or sponsorships.

The ADTS is making the turn-by-turn route instructions and GPS tracks free to the public during the 2026 year as part of the celebrations thanks to a generous donation from Indiana Trails.

Source: ADR250

DATES HAVE BEEN SET!

California dates are from July 1st-15th with stops in Walnut Creek and Antioch on July 6th and 7th, leaving on the 8th. The California segment will begin at Limantour Beach in Marin County where we’ll gather for the American Discovery 250 Relay kick-off, cross the Golden Gate Bridge, end with a final leg from Tahoe City on the Tahoe Rim Trail into Nevada on July 15th.

Contra Costa County Segments

  • Monday 07/06/2026 — UC Berkeley, CA at 8:00 a.m. run and walk to Heather Farms Walnut Creek, CA — 28.3 miles We’ll meet on the corner of Bancroft and College Ave, right on the edge of the UC Berkeley campus. The Telegraph Channing Garage is a nearby parking option. Estimated arrival time: 5pm
  • Tuesday 07/07/2026 — Heather Farms Walnut Creek, CA at 8:30 a.m. run and walk to Antioch Community Park, CA — 36.6 miles The day begins with a special event–a breakfast hosted by the City of Walnut Creek, in collaboration with Save Mount Diablo. Free food! (We’re going to need it.) We’ll aim to hit the road around 9am. Lunch-time gathering in Clayton, hosted by the City of Clayton. Details to follow. Estimated arrival time: 7pm.
  • Wednesday 07/08/2026 — Antioch Community Park, CA at 8:30 a.m. bike to Sacramento – William Land Park, CA — 69.4 miles We depart from Antioch / Worth Shaw Community Park. The City of Oakley will offer a refreshment stop for participants at Antioch/Oakley Regional Shoreline around 9:30am. A support vehicle will be accessible in Oakley (7.5 miles), Isleton (30 miles), Locke (39.6 miles), and Clarksburg (55 miles), and also on-call for road-side support. Water will be available in the vehicle to top off bottles, and it will also be possible for participants to have some of their own supplies transported. Estimated arrival time: 4pm.

The entire relay calendar is now available to review here: discoverytrail.org/adt-relay-calendar.

Source: ADR250

Many Sections of the Trail are Multi-Modal and ADA Accessible

On many days we can have hikers, runners, bicyclers, and others. Thus, a 70-mile “bike” day will certainly include bicyclists who go the full distance, but there also can be people who meet up at the starting point in the morning and walk for a mile or more, or there may be walkers who gather at sites where the bikers stop for lunch or at the end of the day. Also some days listed as “hike” can include families or others who wish to ride their bikes.

There are some days when certain modes are not practical or allowed, such as no bicycles in wilderness areas. Thus, the sign-up form asks the date, the mode of transit, and the desired starting and ending points. Note that the relay will split in Denver, so in September and October we are running two relays at the same time, one through the south-central region and through the north-central region. We unite in late October in Cincinnati.

Source: ADR250

About the American Discovery Trail

The American Discovery Trail is the nation’s first non-motorized coast-to-coast trail established in the USA in 1990. Since then, hundreds have taken the challenge to walk, bike, wheelchair or horseback the entire trail (or sections thereof) with life-changing results.

It runs for 6,800 miles through 15 states and Washington, D.C. The route incorporates numerous local, state and national trails, with most of them designed for walking, hiking, and running and for bicycle and equestrian use. It connects scores of scenic and historic trails, backcountry roads, national parks and forests plus thousands of state and local properties of historic, cultural and natural significance. Users can experience their local environment, or the 23 ecosystems the trail passes through – deserts, mountains, forests, waterfronts, and plains. You can learn more about the ADT by visiting www.discoverytrail.org.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

 

Safety tips for Boating Season

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The Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Marine Unit Officers assist boaters in the Delta. Photos: CCCSO

By Jimmy Lee, Director of Public Affairs, Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff

Memorial Day weekend marks the traditional start of boating season on the Delta. The Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff is urging all boaters to stay safe while enjoying the water.

“Many boating accidents can be avoided by planning ahead,” said Contra Costa Sheriff David Livingston. “80% of boating fatalities could have been prevented by wearing a life jacket. Fol-lowing the law and these tips could help you stay safe on the water.”

California Boater Card Required – Anyone who operates a motorized vessel must carry a California Boater Card. Learn more at californiaboatercard.com.

Engine Cut-off Switch – Last year, California law required the use of an engine cut-off switch—also known as a kill switch or lanyard—on ves-sels under 26 feet. This safety device must be worn by the operator when at the helm and operating above 5 mph or dis-placement speeds. This law is designed to prevent runaway boat incidents in the event the operator is thrown from the helm, adding another layer of safety to California waterways.

Life Jackets Save Lives – All vessels, including stand-up paddleboards (SUPs), must carry a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket for each person on board. Life jackets must be the correct size for the intended wearer and children under 13 must wear a life jacket at all times aboard a vessel, unless in a fully enclosed cabin. Everyone is strongly encouraged to wear a life jacket at all times on the water.

Boating Under the Influence (B.U.I.) – Operating a vessel under the influence of drugs or alcohol is illegal and dangerous. Boaters arrested for B.U.I. face similar consequences to D.U.I. drivers, including fines, license suspension, and possible jail.

Safe Navigation Practices – Always operate at safe speeds, especially in narrow channels or areas with limited visibility. Stay to the right side of the waterway. In crossing situations, the vessel to the right has the right of way.

Ski Flags and Observers – While engaged in towing activities, an observer who holds the ski flag, at the minimum age of 12 years old, must display the ski flag when required: a downed skier in the water, a skier in the water preparing to ski, a line is in the water extended from the vessel, and a ski or similar equipment is in the water in the vicinity of the vessel.

Blue Light Law – Boaters must slow to a no-wake speed when approaching/being approached by any law enforcement or emergency vessel displaying an illuminated blue light, whether the patrol vessel is moving or stationary.

Emergency Preparedness – Carry an emergency kit that includes a flashlight, warm clothing, a cell phone, VHF radio, and navigational charts. Before heading out, file a float plan. Learn how to create a float plan at: https://uscgboating.org/recreational-boaters/floating-plan.php

Carbon Monoxide Awareness – Be cautious of carbon monoxide buildup, especially when sitting on the swim platform or near the boat’s transom while the engine is running.

Youth Operation Rules – Children ages 12–15 may operate boats with motors over 15 horse-power or sailboats over 30 feet only if directly supervised by an adult (18+) who holds a California Boater Card.

Throwables Required – Boats 16 feet and longer must carry a U.S. Coast Guard-approved throwable flotation device, such as a life ring or square cushion, which must be easily accessible.

Additional Resources – The ABC’s of Boating safety handbook is available at most boating retailers. Visit dbw.ca.gov for more boating laws, safety tips, and California Boater Card information. For questions or non-emergency assistance, contact the Marine Services Unit at (925) 427-8507.

In emergencies, Dial 911 or call Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office Dispatch at (925) 646-2441.

37th Annual Art & Wind Festival blowing back into San Ramon May 24-25

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By City of San Ramon

Let’s go fly a kite!  at the 37th Annual San Ramon Art & Wind Festival, the best festival in the East Bay. The Art & Wind Festival is scheduled for Sunday and Monday, May 24-25, 2026, in San Ramon’s Central Park, 12501 Alcosta Blvd. from 11am to 6pm both days.

This annual event features fine arts, crafts and specialty food vendors, three entertainment stages headlining international music, party bands and variety entertainers, children’s shows, two festival food courts, family amusement zones, professional choreographed kite flying demonstrations, helicopter landing, free kite making workshop, puppet shows and much more.

The Art and Wind Festival is a family, bike and pet-friendly FREE outdoor event!

For individuals with additional sensory needs, check out the Sensory Zone at City Hall for a quiet break from the festival without having to leave.

For more information visit ArtandWind.com.

Opinion: Forest Service reform must recognize recreation as essential program

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Courtesy of Don Amador

By Don Amador

The recent move by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to reorganize the U.S. Forest Service—including shifting key leadership functions out of Washington, D.C.—has sparked cautious optimism across both the powersports community and agency ranks.

For years, stakeholders—from tribes and counties to recreation groups and industry—have voiced the same concern: too much bureaucracy and not enough capacity in the field. The impact is tangible. Projects move slowly, fuels reduction lags, and recreation infrastructure—especially trails—falls behind maintenance needs.

Agency leads and field personnel are often tasked with delivering results while navigating increasingly complex processes with limited resources. The gap between policy and implementation has grown, and with it, frustration on all sides.

If done right, it could mark a long-overdue shift—moving resources, authority, and accountability closer to the landscapes and communities where they are needed most. The USDA’s emphasis on “common-sense forest management” suggests a renewed focus on active management, wildfire resilience, and getting projects across the finish line.

For the powersports community, this is not an abstract policy debate. Access depends on capacity. When field offices are understaffed or under-resourced, trails degrade, maintenance backlogs grow, and opportunities for collaboration are lost. When resources are aligned with field delivery, the opposite happens—projects move forward, partnerships strengthen, and access improves.

There is also a unique opportunity right now. The direction of this reorganization aligns with long-standing recommendations from stakeholders: streamline bureaucracy, empower field staff, and focus on outcomes. Across the West, collaborative models—tribal co-stewardship, stewardship contracting, and recreation partnerships—are already proving what works.

To succeed, it must go beyond structural change. It needs to continue shifting real resources to the field, empower local decision-making, and recognize recreation as essential infrastructure—not an afterthought.

See Forest Service news release on reorganization.

Don Amador has been in the trail advocacy and recreation management profession for 35 years.   Don is President of Quiet Warrior Racing LLC. Don serves as the Western States Representative for the Motorcycle Industry Council. Don is Past President/CEO and current board member of the Post Wildfire OHV Recovery Alliance.  Don is a Co-Founder and Core-Team member on FireScape Mendocino, a forest health collaborative that is part of the National Fire Learning Network.  Don served as an AD Driver for the Forest Service North Zone Fire Cache during the 2022, 2023, and 2024 Fire Seasons.  

 

Benicia couple charged with child abuse in e-moto crash in Walnut Creek

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The minor was riding a Sur-Ron Light Bee e-Moto bike when the crash occurred. Photo: sur-ronusa.com

They “allowed the minor to repeatedly ride the e-moto from age 14-17”

By Ted Asregadoo, PIO, Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office

Martinez, California – The Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office has charged a mother and father with child abuse related to the operation of an electric motorized bicycle, known as an e-moto bike, by an unlicensed minor who suffered injuries after crashing into another vehicle in Walnut Creek.

58-year-old Steven Leroy Crews and 58-year-old Jeanna Marie Gabellini of Benicia will be arraigned on March 27th at 8:30 am in Martinez on one count of child abuse [PC 273a(a)], which is a misdemeanor.

Mr. Crews and Ms. Gabellini are alleged to have willfully and unlawfully permitted a child to be injured or placed in a situation where the child’s health is endangered on or between October 19th, 2024, and September 18th, 2025.

It was on September 18th, 2025, around 3:05 pm, that a John Doe minor related to Crews and Gabellini crashed his Surron Light Bee e-Moto bike into a minivan on Treat Boulevard and Arkell Road in Walnut Creek. The minor suffered severe injuries that required emergency care at a local hospital. The driver of the minivan was uninjured and stayed at the scene.

Walnut Creek Police investigated the collision, and through witness statements and other evidence, determined the child was unlawfully riding the e-moto on Treat Boulevard in an unsafe manner and at unsafe speeds prior to the crash. Moreover, Crews and Gabellini allowed the minor to repeatedly ride the e-moto from age 14-17, ignoring repeated citations and warnings from law enforcement.

District Attorney Diana Becton said, “E-bikes and e-motos are more prevalent on city streets. Now that California has new laws on the books to address public safety offenses related to e-bikes and e-motos, parents must understand the dangers these vehicles can pose to children if operated unlawfully and without proper driver education.”

The City of Walnut Creek has helpful information on the different classifications of e-bikes, e-motos, e-scooters, e-dirt bikes, and how to operate them safely and lawfully.

Case No. 01-25-04762 | The People of the State of California v. Steven Leroy Crews

Case No. 01-25-04777 | The People of the State of California v. Jeanna Marie Gabellini

First Annual Bay Rideout event by Najee Harris’ Da Bigger Picture Foundation March 8

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Co-founded by NFL running back Najee Harris and his mother, Tianna Hicks, Da Bigger Picture Foundation is a reflection of family, perseverance and giving back. What started as a vision between mother and son has grown into a mission focused on service, youth empowerment and creating real impact where it’s needed most.

Donations fuel every foundation program — from Get Fitted to youth camps, fun events like the Bay Rideout and community drives.

Da Bigger Picture Foundation – Where Confidence Meets Opportunity! Creating access and opportunity for youth through community programs, school partnerships and events that build confidence. For more information or to donate visit https://dabiggerpicture.com

Save Mount Diablo expands free Discover Diablo hikes, outings program for 2026

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Discover Diablo Exploratory hike in Del Puerto Canyon. Photo: Kendra Smith. Inset – People enjoying our Discover Diablo hike looking for newts at Briones Regional Park. Photo: Emily Sherwood.

By Laura Kindsvater, Senior Communications Manager, Save Mount Diablo

CONTRA COSTA, ALAMEDA, STANISLAUS AND SAN BENITO COUNTIES—Explore some of the East Bay’s premiere hiking and natural areas with Save Mount Diablo in 2026, including places normally closed to the public.

The Discover Diablo outings series offers guided hikes, themed walks, and other outdoor activities: mountain biking; rock climbing; meditation in nature; plein air painting events; and property tours.

New this year are a Green Ranch rove, and a Spanish language hike at Pine Canyon.

We’ll also be continuing much-loved events in 2026 including rock climbing at Mount Diablo State Park and Pinnacles National Park, stargazing with the Mount Diablo Astronomical Society, our Mitchell Canyon medicinal herb walk, Pinnacles condor hikes and our tarantula treks!

Save Mount Diablo is offering a total of 36 more excursions in 2026 in Contra Costa County (Walnut Creek, Clayton, Concord, Pittsburg, Antioch, Brentwood, Oakley, Danville, and San Ramon), Alameda County (Dublin, Livermore, and Pleasanton), Stanislaus County (Patterson), and San Benito County (Hollister and San Juan Bautista). All events are free to the public. Trailblazers of all ages and skill levels are welcome to choose appropriate outings from our extensive offerings.

The Discover Diablo program began in 2017 to connect local communities to the spectacular natural world of the Mount Diablo area and to build awareness about land conservation.

Hikes and outings take place at Save Mount Diablo’s conserved properties or on park lands in the Diablo Range. These include Mount Diablo State Park, East Bay Regional Park District, Walnut Creek Open Space Foundation, Contra Costa Water District, Stanislaus County Parks, and National Park Service lands.

Discover Diablo hikes are guided by experts steeped in the natural history and lore of the region, who both educate and entertain while emphasizing the breathtaking beauty that the Diablo Range has to offer.

Save Mount Diablo hopes the Discover Diablo series will spark a passion for the Diablo Range and deepen people’s connections to the land and nature.

Ted Clement, Executive Director of Save Mount Diablo, stated, “It is the goal of the Discover Diablo program to build connections between people, Save Mount Diablo, and the land, helping our communities develop a strong sense of place and a deepened appreciation for our collective backyard. Most importantly, we want to cultivate a love of the land in participants, as that is what it will take to ensure the precious Diablo natural areas are taken care of for generations to come.”

There is something right for anyone to discover in the nooks and crannies surrounding Mount Diablo and within its sustaining Diablo Range, so be sure to hit the trails in 2026 and find your own individual inspiration!

RSVPs required. To ensure everyone has an equal opportunity to attend, registration for hikes and outings will open one month prior to each hike’s date. See our schedule of upcoming hikes and outings; view and RSVP online here: https://savemountdiablo.org/what-we-do/educating-and-inspiring-people/discover-diablo-hikes-outings/

Unique virtual reality entertainment center opens in Brentwood

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Inside the new VRNexGen virtual reality entertainment venue in Brentwood. Photo: City of Brentwood

VRNexGEN offers local youth new activity option with “The Ultimate VR Arena Experience”

By Melissa Ballesteros, Executive Assistant, City of Brentwood Manager’s Office 

Brentwood residents, Prashant Sharma and Ashish Marwa, have opened a new virtual reality (VR) entertainment venue offering active, team-based experiences for families, students, and groups. VRNexGEN, at the Sand Creek Crossing Shopping Center, adds a high-energy recreation option within Brentwood, reducing the need for families to travel to neighboring cities for similar activities.

“We wanted to create something here that gives kids and families a place to celebrate, be active, and connect, without leaving town,” expressed Sharma.

Sharma and Marwa are both active members of the United Indian Association and first connected through volunteer efforts supporting community events, including the Community Day of Service, Holi and Diwali. As parents of middle and high school students, they saw firsthand that birthday parties and weekend outings often required trips to Livermore, Walnut Creek or Concord. Their shared goal was to bring a modern, interactive recreation destination to Brentwood. One that encourages physical activity, communication, and teamwork.

“The community consistently asks for more things for teens and youth to do locally,” said Mayor Susannah Meyer. “VRNexGEN is exactly the kind of new option families have been looking for. Active, social, and right here in Brentwood.”

A team of friends in real life and as they appear in virtual reality. Source: VRNexGen video screenshots.

Offering what the website refers to as “The Ultimate VR Arena Experience,” the facility features free-roam areas where players are untethered and can move through immersive virtual environments while collaborating on missions or competing for high scores. Games include “Omega Protocol” and “Enter the Duat,” both designed around coordination and group problem-solving.

Teams consist of two to 20 players and age-appropriate games for those six years old and up, last 30 minutes or an hour. Each player is provided with virtual reality visual and hand-held equipment.

“Our focus was to build something that gets people moving and working together,” said Marwa. “We’re excited to offer an experience that’s technology-driven, interactive, and welcoming for families, students, and groups.”

“New businesses that respond directly to community interests help strengthen Brentwood’s quality of life,” said City Manager G. Harold Duffey. “VRNexGEN adds a new local destination for families and youth while contributing to our vibrant local economy.”

Following their grand opening on Jan. 25th, Sharma and Marwa expressed their enthusiasm and appreciation to the community. In posts on their Facebook page they wrote, “We’re proud to bring a new VR Family Entertainment experience to Brentwood and be part of this amazing community. Also, thank you to everyone who showed up, supported us, and came out to have fun and celebrate with us. What a day. Thank you, Brentwood! Our opening was a huge success, and we couldn’t have done it without the incredible support from our community.

Owners Prashant Sharma and Ashish Marwa (right) are presented with a Certificate of Recognition by District 1 Councilwoman Jovita Mendoza (second from left) and City staff during the grand opening on Jan. 25, 2026. Photo: VRNexGEN

“A special thank you to the City of Brentwood and our amazing local businesses, neighbors, families, and friends for showing up and welcoming VRNexGEN with open arms. Thank you to everyone who showed up, supported us, and came out to have fun and celebrate with us. We’re officially OPEN and excited to bring next-level VR games, parties, and unforgettable experiences to the city!”

They also thanked District 1 Councilwoman Jovita Mendoza and the City for attending their grand opening.

“We’re proud to bring a new VR Family Entertainment experience to Brentwood and be part of this amazing community,” they added.

Economic Development Manager Ricardo Noguera was asked what the City’s role was in attracting the unique business to town and if they received any financial incentives such as a grant.

“I have been working with this company from the very beginning,” he said. “I assisted them in finding their location and assisted in the permit process. No financial incentives were offered other than my time, which I often share with other business prospects and expanding businesses in Brentwood.”

“This is a unique business, none similar in the Brentwood area and our youth are seeking recreational outlets,” Noguera added.

VRNexGen is located 2510 Sand Creek Road near Home Goods and behind the Ross. For additional details, including operating hours and information to book your game or party, today, visit https://vrnexgen.com/ or call (925) 529-9988.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Martinez City Council approves exclusive negotiating agreement to advance Waterfront and Marina revitalization

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Front view aerial rendering by Tucker Sadler of the proposed Martinez Waterfront and Marina Plan presented to the city council on July 16, 2025. Source: City of Martinez

Private developer proposes vision, model, master plan for collaboration

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

Martinez, CA — At their December 17, 2025, Regular meeting, the Martinez City Council unanimously approved an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement (ENA) with Tucker Sadler Architects, marking an important milestone toward revitalization of the Martinez Waterfront and Marina. The agreement sets in motion a new phase of study and collaborative planning that will evaluate the project’s feasibility, refine design concepts, and lay the groundwork for decisions on the future of the Waterfront and Marina.

Revitalizing the Waterfront and Marina has been a top community priority for decades. With aging infrastructure, deteriorating facilities, limited resources, and a marina well beyond its useful life, the City has faced growing operational and financial pressures that necessitate a broader reimagining through a private-public partnership.

Tucker Sandler, a San Diego-based architectural planning, design and development firm, has decades of experience delivering private and public sector development projects in California and in other states, including waterfront projects.

Now, with the ENA approval, the City and Tucker Sadler begin a formal 24-month period to collaboratively refine a transformative vision for the waterfront, conduct environmental review, engage the community, and negotiate a potential Development Agreement.

“Tonight’s approval is an important step for unlocking the potential of our Waterfront and Marina. We are excited to refine the project vision in the coming months with input from our community,” said Mayor Brianne Zorn. “This partnership gives us a path to activate our Waterfront, rebuild the Marina, and create a regional landmark that reflects Martinez’s identity, without placing the financial burden on our residents.”

Side aerial view rendering. Source: City of Martinez

A Vision for a Reimagined Waterfront

In July 2025, Tucker Sadler presented a conceptual vision for a comprehensive revitalization of the Waterfront and Marina. After extensive public comment and Council discussion, the Council directed staff to pursue an ENA to further explore the opportunity. (See City staff report and PowerPoint presentation)

Pursuant to the ENA, the City will work exclusively with Tucker Sadler to develop a comprehensive plan to create a vibrant, accessible, sustainable, and community-serving waterfront. The project is envisioned to include a broad range of landside and waterside improvements reflecting the Martinez identity and including thoughtfully-scaled commercial elements necessary to support and sustain the long-term financial viability of the project.

During this next phase, the City and Tucker Sadler will engage the community to garner input on the project’s features and undertake detailed analyses, technical studies, and design evaluations to determine how best to bring these concepts from vision to buildable reality.

On the landside, the project envisions new recreation amenities such as sport fields, a dog park, kite area, and public art installations, along with expanded open spaces featuring plazas, pedestrian pathways, marshland restoration, and stronger connections to downtown. Hospitality and community facilities, including hotels, restaurants, a community/event center, a new Martinez Yacht Club and Sea Scouts’ facility, and an outdoor amphitheater, are also included. These project elements would complement new commercial and retail spaces and support boating, fishing, recreation, and other waterfront activities, and would be supported by upgraded infrastructure, including surface and underground parking, utilities, and lighting.

On the waterside, the plan calls for a full reconstruction of the Marina with new and upgraded boat slips, fueling stations, and improved access for both motorized and nonmotorized vessels. It also includes repairing or redesigning the aging northern breakwater and eastern seawall, as well as adding new public amenities such as launch points for nonmotorized watercraft, accessible promenades, viewing decks, open spaces along the waterfront, and an area reserved for potential future ferry service.

Rendering of the proposed Boardwalk design for the Martinez Waterfront and Marina. Source: City of Martinez

A Financially Sustainable Path Forward

The ENA also establishes that the proposed project must be privately financed and self-sustaining, with no City subsidy and no financial risk to Martinez taxpayers. Tucker Sadler will reimburse the City for all staff, legal, and consultant costs during the negotiation period.

If a future Development Agreement is approved, the project could:

  • Eliminate the City’s ongoing General Fund subsidy for Marina operations (savings of about $650,000+ per year)
  • Shift responsibility for Marina reconstruction, including dredging and seawall/breakwater replacement, to the developer
  • Generate new long-term revenue for the City through transient occupancy tax, sales tax, possessory interest tax, and lease payments

“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to secure the future of our Waterfront and Marina,” said City Manager Michael Chandler. “The ENA allows us to fully evaluate a revitalization effort that could eliminate ongoing subsidies, strengthen the City’s long-term fiscal health, and deliver an enhanced public asset the community can benefit from and enjoy for decades to come.”

Rendering of the proposed Marina design for the Martinez Waterfront. Source: City of Martinez

Next Steps: Community Engagement and Environmental Review

Under the ENA, the City and Tucker Sadler,  will manage and participate in a robust public engagement process that invites residents, businesses, waterfront users, and regional partners to provide input into the final vision. There will be multiple opportunities for community feedback as the project is designed and undergoes extensive studies and review processes.

The first round of outreach will begin in early 2026 as part of the City’s Sesquicentennial Community Sessions. These early conversations will help provide insight into the project process and initial concepts; dates and times of these sessions will be released later in 2025.

The City will also maintain ongoing information and feedback opportunities on its website at www.cityofmartinez.org/MarinaProject, ensuring the community can stay informed and participate at every stage.

Following the community engagement efforts, the project vision will be finalized and the formal environmental review processes required under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) will commence. This analysis will evaluate potential environmental impacts, explore project alternatives, and ensure the planning process is grounded in transparency, data, and regulatory compliance.

“We’re grateful for the opportunity to move forward in partnership with the City and the community,” said Greg Mueller, Design Principal and CEO of Tucker Sadler Architects. “The ENA allows us to work collaboratively on a waterfront vision that honors the area’s history while creating new opportunities for the future.”

Rendering of the proposed Amphitheatre design for the Martinez Waterfront and Marina. Source: City of Martinez

History of the Martinez Marina

Constructed in the 1960s, the Marina has exceeded its useful life, with facilities closing due to safety concerns and environmental factors, such as sea level rise causing frequent flooding. Viewed as a unique and valuable community asset, the City Council has expressed a commitment to take measures to ensure it is safe and create a vibrant place for recreation and commerce benefiting residents and visitors alike.

The City assumed direct management of the Marina in August 2024 after the previous operator’s contract ended, revealing the need for a comprehensive rebuild rather than costly repairs. Maintaining the Marina has been a financial challenge for the City, which has been subsidizing the Marina for years, a scenario that is no longer sustainable. The Marina threatens to become a financial drain on the City’s general fund if a different course of action is not pursued.

“Our City’s Marina is a vital community asset that has faced decades of infrastructure deterioration and increasing financial strain on the City,” said Mayor Brianne Zorn. “An investment in Martinez by a private developer may offer a transformational opportunity to fund a comprehensive plan for our Marina and Waterfront.”

Additional background and the full scope of the ENA are detailed in the Staff Report included with the December 17, 2025 Regular City Council Meeting agenda. The complete ENA document is also available for public review as part of the meeting materials.

Resources:
Project Webpage – http://www.cityofmartinez.org/MarinaProject

Agenda – https://granicus_production_attachments.s3.amazonaws.com/martinez/63ac58a09b7b4c207dfe66160741c6d90.pdf

Staff Report –
https://www.cityofmartinez.org/home/showdocument?id=5410&t=639016149231794854

Council Resolution –
https://www.cityofmartinez.org/home/showdocument?id=5414&t=639016460677029956

Exclusive Negotiating Agreement –https://www.cityofmartinez.org/home/showdocument?id=5412&t=639016149625840171

See the San Jose Sharks at Oakley on Ice Dec. 13

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By Danielle Navarro, Assistant City Manager, City of Oakley

The San Jose Sharks promo team will be at Oakley on Ice this Saturday, December 13th, from 2:30 to 8:30 pm. There will be interactive games, a prize table, photo ops and more.

Oakley on Ice skating rink is located at Norcross Lane and Main Street behind the Mercantile Building. For more information visit https://oakleyonice.com/.