Public Works News - San Rafael

SMART Larkspur Extension Update

Posted on December 5, 2019

The Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART) has announced commercial service on the Larkspur Extension from Downtown San Rafael to the Larkspur Station will start on December 14th. A ribbon cutting ceremony is scheduled at 1:00 PM on December 13th at the Larkspur Station to celebrate the completion of this second segment of SMART’s rail service. The new service...

SMART Train – New Quiet Zone Coming!

Posted on November 22, 2019

On Sunday, November 17th, SMART began pre-revenue service by running empty trains between downtown San Rafael and Larkspur. It is anticipated that the pre-revenue service will last for several weeks until SMART receives authorization to begin carrying passengers to Larkspur. SMART is running their regular weekday/weekend schedule allowing them to perform their final tests. City...

Traffic Signal Battery Back-Up System

Posted on November 22, 2019

The emergency power shut downs by PG&E generated high traffic volumes in San Rafael. The California Vehicle Code states that signalized intersections should be treated as all-way stops when the traffic signals go dark. However, many motorists did not abide by these traffic rules and regulations. The Public Works’ Parks and Streets Divisions worked quickly...

Chief Gray & Fire Station 57

Posted on November 22, 2019

On November 19th, City staff and members of the San Rafael community celebrated Chief Gray’s career and the grand opening of Fire Station 57. Chief Gray devoted 12 years of his life to the San Rafael Fire Department. Among those in attendance were guests from fire departments across the State, retired firefighters, the Police Department,...

San Rafael Announces Establishment of SMART Quiet Zone

Posted on November 21, 2019

The City of San Rafael has been working with SMART to begin the Quiet Zone to coincide with the start of commercial operations. Since SMART intends to begin commercial operations on the second or third week of December, on Thursday, November 21, the City of San Rafael issued its Notice of Establishment of a Quiet...

SMART Operations Update: SMART to Begin Simulated Service to Larkspur

Posted on November 14, 2019

SMART has completed 100% of all the required testing for the Larkspur extension, and the next step in preparing to open the Larkspur station for service is to begin simulated service to the new Larkspur station on Sunday, November 17. Simulated service will demonstrate the operational functioning of the full system from Sonoma County Airport...

Richmond-San Rafael Bridge Bike_Ped Path

New Richmond-San Rafael Bridge Bicycle/Pedestrian Path

Posted on November 8, 2019

On Saturday, November 16, 2019 at 10:00 AM, the Metropolitan Transportation Commission, Bay Area Toll Authority (BATA), Caltrans, Contra Costa Transportation Authority, and the Transportation Authority of Marin will be celebrating the opening of a new six-mile Bay Trail segment, allowing bicyclists and pedestrians to travel between Contra Costa and Marin County. The event will...

New Lanes on Grand Avenue

Posted on November 8, 2019

Recently, Grand Avenue was resurfaced from the bridge deck to 2nd Street. Fresh roadway provides us with an opportunity to make improvements to the lane configuration. On the south leg of the intersection, the road is wide enough to add a northbound right-turn pocket. Therefore, motorists trying to get to Montecito Shopping Center and Point...

Marina Vista

Posted on November 8, 2019

The Marina Vista neighborhood will be dredging the privately-owned waterway known as the Marina Vista Canal. It is located near the San Rafael Canal, across from Pickleweed Park. For this work, a barge with dredging equipment will be stationed in the area with work to occur during the City’s standard construction hours. Seasonal restrictions for...

Radar Speed Feedback Signs on Professional Center Parkway

Posted on November 8, 2019

Last week, the residents of Professional Center Parkway finally reached their limit with speeding cars. A driver, speeding uphill, lost control, and damaged a building. The Traffic Division worked with the HOA to get radar speed feedback signs for both directions on Professional Center Parkway. In addition to the feedback signs, we are adding speed...

UPDATE: Street Resurfacing 10/31 – 11/6

Posted on October 30, 2019

Paving operations will resume today, October 31, on Hoag Street. Canal Street is scheduled to be resurfaced from tomorrow, November 1 to Wednesday, November 6. Please make sure you observe all temporary parking restrictions during construction.

UPDATE: Street Resurfacing on Hoag Street and Canal Street

Posted on October 29, 2019

Paving operations are currently suspended due to the power outage. Operations may resume on Thursday, November 11. Updates will be posted on Nextdoor and the City's website.

Octubre 28, 2019 Actualización sobre la Interrupción del Suministro Eléctrico por Motivos de Seguridad Pública

Posted on October 28, 2019

PG&E nos ha notificado que a partir de las 6:00 am ha comenzado el proceso de revisar su infraestructura a lo largo del Condado de Marin esta mañana. Aunque tenemos la esperanza que restablezcan el suministro eléctrico en el condado de Marin lo más pronto posible, el proceso de inspeccionar las líneas eléctricas y reparar...

October 28th, 2019 Public Safety Power Shutoff Update – Re-Energization

Posted on October 28, 2019

PG&E has notified us that they have started the process of inspecting their infrastructure throughout Marin County at 6:00am this morning. While we are hopeful that power will be restored in Marin County as soon as possible, the process of inspecting power lines and fixing any damage from the wind before re-energization takes time. In...

Street Resurfacing

Posted on October 25, 2019

The City’s contractor, Ghilotti Bros., Inc., has placed over 2,700 tons of hot mix asphalt in the last month as part of the City’s CIP Street Resurfacing project. That’s almost 150 truckloads of asphalt! They are off to a great start with 5,500 tons left to pave this year. Next week, Ghilotti Bros. will grind...

70 Irwin

Posted on October 25, 2019

In January 2017, the City of San Rafael experienced a significant storm event resulting in a landslide at 70 Irwin Street. This landslide affected the entire roadway of Irwin Street, resulting in its closure to the public in the spring of 2017 due to safety concerns. The City’s contractor, Valentine Corporation, was awarded with a...

North San Pedro Road/Merrydale Road is Getting a Makeover!

Posted on October 25, 2019

Public Works is conceptualizing bicycle related improvements in conjunction with street resurfacing to make developments to another location where they are needed: the intersection of North San Pedro Road and Merrydale Road. Both streets are listed in our Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan. North San Pedro Road is listed in a feasibility study for Class...

Collaboration! A Success Story About Working with the County to Install an All Way Stop at a Five-Legged Intersection

Posted on October 25, 2019

The City of San Rafael and the County of Marin jurisdiction boundaries meet at the five-legged intersection of Highland Avenue/Deer Park Avenue/Summit Avenue up above Dominican University. It was a free-for-all; some approaches were yield-controlled, and others were free (uncontrolled). The City received inquiries from residents who wrote in requesting the Traffic Division look into...

Arbor Day

Posted on October 25, 2019

This year’s Arbor Day event was held on October 22nd at Oleander Park in Terra Linda. This was the 37th annual event to maintain our “Tree City USA” membership. Many were in attendance, including service contractors, Community Services & Public Works staff, and members from the Town of Tiburon. Mark Wright honored the late Parks...

Grand Opening – Fire Station 57

Posted on October 25, 2019

Save the date! Fire Station 57 is having its grand opening on Tuesday, November 19, 2019. Fire Station 57 joins Fire Station 52 as our newest Measure E funded safety facility. Passed by the voters of San Rafael in 2013, Measure E provides funding to upgrade and replace the City’s essential facilities. Construction commenced in...

What You Need to Know: Potential PG&E Power Shutoff

Posted on October 25, 2019

Prepare Now Pacific Gas & Electric Company (PG&E) has notified the County of Marin that it may activate its Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) protocols in response to a high wind event and Red Flag Warning. At 7:30am this morning, PG&E said it could potentially initiate a planned power shutoff in parts of Marin County...

Paving Work on Villa and Grand Ave.

Posted on October 22, 2019

The City's contractors will begin resurfacing work tomorrow, 10/23 on Villa Ave. from Grand Ave. to the NB 101 onramp. Work will continue from 7 AM to 5 PM through Thursday and potentially into Friday. Both directions of travel will remain open during the construction hours, though crews will be directing one direction at a...

Paving Work on 2nd and 3rd St

Posted on October 18, 2019

The City's contractor will be doing road work on Second Street at Shaver Street on the afternoon of Monday, October 21st. Road work on Third Street at Shaver Street will occur on the mornings of October 22nd and 23rd. Crews will be closing one lane at a time to repair the roadway surface. The work...

SMART Track Testing Operations Update: Saturday, October 19, 2019 – 5:00pm – 11:00pm

Posted on October 18, 2019

SMART will be testing pre-revenue operations in San Rafael this coming Saturday, October 19, 2019. The hours of operations are scheduled from approximately 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. Operations will occur from the Larkspur station to Myrtle Avenue (near the south portal of the Puerto Suello Tunnel), including the 4th Street, 5th Avenue, and Mission...

Paving Work on Fifth Avenue

Posted on October 15, 2019

Wondering what all the action on Fifth Avenue is? Starting tomorrow morning, October 16 the City’s contractor, Ghilotti Bros. will be performing maintenance work on Fifth Avenue between J Street and Happy Lane. They'll be removing sections of about six inches of asphalt and replacing it with six inches of fresh asphalt. Signs displaying parking...

70 Irwin Drainage Improvements and Lane Closure

Posted on October 14, 2019

Valentine Corporation is starting work on the installation of additional drainage improvements for the 70 Irwin Street slide repair project on Monday. This will include 750 feet of v-ditch and approximately 1,000 feet of asphalt berm adjacent to the location of the slide. This work will take approximately 2 months to complete and will require...

Essential Facilities – Public Safety Center Update

Posted on October 11, 2019

The construction of the Public Safety Center continues to progress. The roofing on the building is completed and the interior walls have been insulated. The building is now weatherproof and is ready for the upcoming wet season. With an average daily crew of fifty workers, the contractor continues to hit critical milestones to keep the...

Ahoy Algae!

Posted on October 11, 2019

The Department of Public Works has contracted Solitude Lake Management to help the City implement sustainable lagoon management in maintaining our lagoons. After many years of drought, followed by two years of heavy rains, the City lagoons and a majority of the lakes, ponds, and shorelines along the California coast have been inundated with Blue-green...

Resurfacing Project

Posted on October 11, 2019

The City’s annual resurfacing project has commenced! The City’s contractor, Ghilotti Bros. Inc., has placed 5 lane miles of microsurfacing and 1,700 tons of asphalt. Micro-surfacing is a protective seal coat that is applied to asphalt in order to extend its life. All of this year’s micro-surfacing has been completed however, approximately 7,000 tons of...

SMART Overnight Operations Update: Weekend of October 4-6

Posted on October 2, 2019

SMART overnight operations are not scheduled for this coming Friday, October 4 and Saturday, October 5. Upcoming overnight operations have not yet been scheduled. Please stay tuned and we will post information about future overnight operations as it becomes available. For more information and to check updates on our testing schedule, please visit...

2018 Sidewalk Repair Program 50% complete and 2019 Update

Posted on September 27, 2019

2018 Program The City along with Van Midde and Son Concrete hit an important milestone last week. More than 50% of the scheduled work for the 2018 program has now been completed. This represents over 16,500 square feet of new sidewalk in the city. That's over 30 cement trucks worth of concrete weighting the equivalent...

Overnight Operations Update: Weekend of September 27 – 29

Posted on September 26, 2019

SMART is continuing to fine-tune the train control system based on the data they have collected over past weekend operations. The next overnight operations are scheduled for: Friday, September 27, from 11:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. Saturday, September 28, from 11:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. (if needed) For more information and to check updates on the...

SMART Track Testing Canceled for Saturday, September 21

Posted on September 21, 2019

Overnight Operations Update: Saturday, September 21 SMART has canceled tonight’s overnight operations (Saturday, September 21). SMART continues to make good progress, and they are fine-tuning the train control system based on the data they have collected. The next overnight operations are scheduled for: Friday, September 27, from 11:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. Saturday, September 28,...

iew facing southwest of the northwestern reach of the lagoon, with the outfall location in the background. View facing

Marin Lagoons HOA – Maintenance Dredging

Posted on September 20, 2019

Privately funded maintenance dredging of the Marin Lagoons will begin on Monday, September 23rd. The work is expected to continue through to the beginning of 2020. The lagoons are centralized within the neighborhood, located off of McInnis Parkway, north of the Civic Center. The lagoons are over 4 acres of water and have a controlled...

Traffic Signals at Third Street and Tamalpais Avenue

New Traffic Signals on Second and Third Street at SMART Crossings

Posted on September 20, 2019

The new traffic signals are up and running on Second and Third Street so that SMART can begin service to Larkspur after they pass all the train tests. Both the Police Department and the Department of Public Works have received many phone calls and e-mails in frustration over the new traffic signals and increased delays....

New Activity Tracking App for Public Works Streets and Parks Crews

Posted on September 20, 2019

After many years of tracking their activities on paper, the DPW Streets and Parks crews are going digital. With lots of collaboration, we now have an app that works on a smart phone in the field. The interface is simple and clear, so that crews can quickly document their work in the field. An important...

Fire Stations 54 & 55 Officially Approved

Posted on September 20, 2019

On September 17, 2019, two fire station renovations received approval from the Design Review Board. Fire Station 54, located on 46 Castro Avenue, and Fire Station 55, located on 955 Point San Pedro Road, are part of the Essential Public Safety Facilities Strategic Plan funded by Measure E on April 1, 2014. Both fire stations...

SMART Track Testing Update for the Weekend of September 20-21

Posted on September 19, 2019

Pre-revenue operations update: SMART has made significant progress in their pre-revenue operations and systems testing in preparation for opening the Larkspur station. Upcoming overnight operations are scheduled for: Friday, September 20, from 11:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. Saturday, September 21, from 11:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. Please note, there may be additional overnight operations depending...

Public Notice: Schoen Park Project

Posted on September 11, 2019

Located along Spinnaker Point Drive, Schoen Park is a small playground serving the Canal and Spinnaker Point communities. After considering the community’s needs and following extensive upgrades to playground equipment located at the nearby Pickleweed Park, the City has decided to re-purpose the Schoen Park area. In the near future, the playground equipment will be...

SMART Larkspur Track Testing Schedule Update (9/13/2019 – 9/28/2019)

Posted on September 9, 2019

SMART has scheduled the remainder of the safety tests on the following dates. Stay tuned for changes as test results may impact the testing schedule. Friday, September 13 from 11:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. Saturday, September 14 from 11:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. Friday, September 20 from 11:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. Saturday, September 21 from 11:00...

Francisco Blvd West looking north from Rice Drive

Multi-Use Pathway Phase-II

Posted on September 6, 2019

The planning stage for the Multi-Use Pathway (MUP) Phase-II, extending from 2nd Street to Rice Drive, is continuing forward. The pathway is along Francisco Boulevard West. It will connect the recently completed MUP Phase-I from Rice to Andersen Drive with downtown and the Bettini Transit Center. The existing 4-foot wide sidewalk will be expanded to...

Out with the old, in with the new

Posted on September 6, 2019

The Department of Public Works just received a delivery of three, brand new Chevy Duramax HD6500 dump trucks. These new dump trucks replace the 18-year-old International 4700 dump trucks that Public Works previously owned. The new Chevy Duramax’s are much more fuel-efficient, have more power, and have a larger load capacity (6 yards compared to...

Fire Engine 57 used during vehicle exhaust (Plymovent) training

Fire Station 57 – Training

Posted on September 6, 2019

The City of San Rafael will have its second Fire Station project completed soon! The new Fire Station 57 will become an integral part of the community and will allow our Fire Department to maintain their commitment to the residents of San Rafael. Fire Department personnel have started to receive training on the various new...

Update: SMART Larkspur Extension Testing (9/6/2019 – 9/8/2019)

Posted on September 5, 2019

SMART has made great progress towards completing railroad crossing tests and will soon begin testing train control systems. The next overnight testing sessions are scheduled for: Friday, September 6, 11:00 p.m. to Saturday, September 7, 8:00 a.m. Saturday, September 7, 11:00 p.m. to Sunday, September 8, 8:00 a.m. As a part of the testing process, you may...

Update: Overnight Testing for the Larkspur Extension Continues

Posted on August 28, 2019

Please be advised that SMART intends to resume overnight testing on Friday, August 30, and continue through Sunday, September 1, between 9:30 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. Regular updates on the testing schedule will be posted on SonomaMarinTrain.org as they become available. According to SMART, railroad crossing warning devices and train control systems along the new extension from San...

SMART Overnight Testing for Larkspur Extension Starts August 23

Posted on August 23, 2019

SMART is getting closer to opening its extension to Larkspur and will begin testing the train control and railroad crossing warning systems along the newly constructed portion of track from San Rafael to Larkspur. Track testing will take place on track segments between Mission Ave and Larkspur. The overnight testing will take place between 9:30...

Public Safety Center – Preparations for the Weather

Posted on August 23, 2019

Although we are enjoying this beautiful summer weather, it’ll be autumn before we know it, and the rains will return. The Public Safety Center project team is making sure they are prepared for the rains. This includes ensuring the building envelope is water-tight. The roof installation has started in some areas and will continue for...

PG&E Maintenance Work

Posted on August 23, 2019

On August 14, 2019, PG&E contractors began work associated with the maintenance of an existing groundwater extraction and treatment system, located primarily on the southern parcels of the BioMarin campus at the San Rafael Corporate Center. The system is part of the remedy for the 17-acre former manufactured gas plant/San Rafael Service Center site. Work...

Bret Harte Bathroom Update

Posted on August 23, 2019

Bret Harte Park experienced a major upgrade with the new restroom building that was installed this year. However, some issues were brought to light after the community started to use it. The toilet kept plugging up due to the shape of the Penal-style toilet. These types of toilets have drainage pipes with smaller diameters due...

Median Pruning

Posted on August 23, 2019

The Parks Department is currently pruning along Las Collindas Avenue in Terra Linda. Pruning consists of trimming trees by cutting away dead or overgrown branches in order to stimulate growth. Work is expected to wrap up this week.

SMART Train Testing

Posted on August 23, 2019

SMART has completed the bulk of their construction project to bring the SMART trains from central San Rafael to Larkspur. In the course of this “second operating segment”, SMART contractors rebuilt the entire track, spent two consecutive weekends crossing Second and Third Streets, replaced the bridge that crosses the San Rafael Creek with two brand...

The Pool is for the Diving Team…not the Driving Team

Posted on August 23, 2019

The Terra Linda Community pool encountered some excitement this past week. Apparently, someone was running a little late for a bridge tournament when they mistakenly pressed the gas pedal instead of the brake and drove through the pool fencing. Fortunately, the pool was closed at the time and no one was hurt when the incident...

Gerstle Park Sidewalk Repair Update!

Posted on August 15, 2019

The City and Van Midde & Son Concrete have been busy replacing sidewalk in Gerstle Park. In the past month, work has been completed on Ross, Marin, Bayview, and Clorinda Avenue. Nearly 1,700 square feet of new sidewalk has been installed covering about 350 feet of sidewalk. Sections of San Rafael Avenue and D Street...

2017 Storm Damage Repairs – 70 Irwin

Posted on August 9, 2019

Last week, Valentine Corporation completed the landslide repairs at 70 Irwin Street. After nearly two and half years of detours and closure, the portion of roadway between 70 and 90 Irwin is now open. This project included the installation of four retaining walls, significant drainage improvements on the slope, permanent slope retention, and a new...

Essential Facilities Fire Station 57 – Home Stretch

Posted on August 9, 2019

The Alten construction team is nearing the completion of the new Fire Station 57 project. After many hours spent putting together innumerable details and materials, the contractor is nearly ready to bring the building to life. In the last few weeks, crews installed concrete pavers, a generator and fuel tanks, building signage, as well as,...

Drainage Storm Preparation Starts Early

Posted on August 9, 2019

The Streets division crews have been busy preparing San Rafael’s waterways for the 2019/20 rainy season. Over 300 tons of debris and sediment have been removed in the last 10 days because of last year’s storms. Eventually, over 700 tons of material will be removed from San Rafael’s waterways, headwalls, and containment basins. This work...

Goat Grazing 2019

Posted on August 9, 2019

The 2019 goat grazing contract is in its final stages. So far, the goats have helped reduce the fire hazard in 14 locations covering nearly 100 acres. The goats started the year on Robert Dollar Drive and are currently concluding their work in Peacock Gap and East San Rafael.

SMART Larkspur Extension

Posted on August 9, 2019

The SMART Larkspur Extension is moving into the next phase as construction winds down and testing of trains begins. The City has coordinated with SMART on the installation of new traffic signal lights at the railroad tracks on 2nd and 3rd Streets. These lights will work in tandem with nearby traffic signals and serve the...

Roadway Restriping Project

Posted on August 9, 2019

In early July, Bayside Stripe & Seal, Inc. began refreshing traffic striping along 12 miles of city streets. This project updates the paint on all traffic markings along selected streets to meet current Caltrans standards. Lane markings are now thicker and traffic legends such as “YIELD” or “STOP” are slightly larger. The contractor used thermoplastic...

Preparing for Extended Power Outages

Posted on August 1, 2019

Wildfire season is here and Marin County residents need to be prepared for prolonged power outages related to PG&E’s efforts to reduce wildfire risks. Having key items, such as a working flashlight and 3-day supply of water and food, is one important component of a preparedness plan and can make it easier to cope with power...

Alert Marin Emergency Notification System

Posted on July 31, 2019

About Alert Marin If you live, work or go to school in Marin County and are 18 and over, you may now register your cell phone or VoIP (voice over internet protocol) phone to receive emergency alerts sent by call, text, email, or smartphone application from the County of Marin. Listed and unlisted/blocked Marin County...

REMINDER: Attend a PG&E wildfire safety open house – July 30, 2019

Posted on July 29, 2019

PG&E is hosting a series of regional open houses throughout our service area for anyone who is interested in learning more about our Community Wildfire Safety Program. These drop-in gatherings will allow community members to learn more about wildfire safety and emergency preparedness, meet with PG&E representatives, ask questions and share feedback. Webinars will be...

SMART Overnight track maintenance (July 17, July 23, July 24 – 9:00pm – 3:00am)

Posted on July 19, 2019

SMART will be performing overnight track maintenance in San Rafael from North San Pedro Road to Civic Center Drive on Friday, July 19, Tuesday, July 23 and Wednesday, July 24. Maintenance work will involve the movement of on-track equipment from 9 p.m. to approximately 3 a.m. As a part of this work, the crossing bells...

SMART Larkspur Extension – Testing

Posted on July 19, 2019

Though the first phase of the MUP is done, Sonoma Marin Area Rail Transit district (SMART) is continuing to construct the extension to Larkspur Station, located behind Larkspur Landing. While the majority of the infrastructure, such as rail and ties are in place, SMART is testing the systems that support the rail service. On July...

Essential Facilities: Fire Station 57

Posted on July 19, 2019

We are in the final stages of construction at Fire Station 57! Alten Construction has been taking full advantage of the beautiful, sunny weather this summer and has accomplished a lot in the last few months. They have installed windows, storefronts, roofing, and various site walls. The installation of stucco and site work helps illustrate...

Essential Facilities: Public Safety Center

Posted on July 19, 2019

The Public Safety Center construction team has been working tirelessly. Currently, there is an average of 35-40 workers on site, on any given day. They are installing mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems in the basement, first, and second floor. The underground work finalized last week. All the plywood has been installed on the perimeter of...

2017 Storm Damage Repairs – 70 Irwin

Posted on July 19, 2019

This week, the City’s contractor, Valentine Corporation, paved the section of Irwin Street that has been closed for the past two years. After Valentine Corporation finishes installing a fence along the top of the retaining wall and removes all of their equipment, Irwin Street will be open to through-traffic on Friday, July 26th.

Sea-Level Rise Vulnerability Study

Posted on July 19, 2019

In the United States, about 40% of the population lives near the coast. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, sea levels continue to rise about 1/8-inch every year and this rate is likely to increase. Some studies have estimated that by 2050, water levels could rise by one foot, and by 2100, it...

Summer Pruning

Posted on July 19, 2019

The Parks Department is in the middle of its busy summer pruning season. Pruning entails the trimming of trees by cutting away dead or overgrown branches in order to stimulate growth. The maintenance crews recently finished pruning the mile-long stretch of median islands on Las Gallinas Ave. The Parks crews will now be working on...

SMART Larkspur Extension Multi-Use Pathway Phase I

Posted on July 19, 2019

Following an 18-month long process of planning and construction, the Multi-Use Pathway from Andersen to Rice Drive is complete and open for public use! This is a vital link for bicyclists and pedestrians as it connects downtown San Rafael to the Larkspur Ferry Terminal. It is Phase I of the SMART Larkspur Extension project and...

HAWK Signal for the Multi-Use Pathway

Posted on July 19, 2019

As part of the beautiful new Multi-Use Pathway (MUP) from Rice to Andersen Drive, a HAWK signal was installed at the intersection of the MUP and Rice Drive. HAWK actually stands for High-intensity Activated crossWalK (hey, we are not responsible for the name!). It provides a controlled midblock crossing for bicyclists and pedestrians utilizing the...

Rendering of planned Richmond-San Rafael Bridge bicycle-pedestrian path. Photo courtesy of MTC

Bike Lane on San Rafael-Richmond Bridge (I-580)

Posted on July 19, 2019

For the past year, Caltrans has been making progress to the highly anticipated bicycle-pedestrian pathway on Richmond-San Rafael Bridge (I-580). The 10-foot bi-directional pathway will be separated from traffic by a movable concrete barrier system, similar to the one installed on the Golden Gate Bridge. As a part of these improvements the bike path will...

Freitas Park Water Feature

Posted on July 17, 2019

The water feature at Freitas Park reopened this week after a new rubber surface was installed and the structure got a fresh coat of paint.

SRP Update: Work in Gerstle Park Continues

Posted on July 11, 2019

Work in Gerstle Park continues with the City completing the longest continuous stretch of new sidewalk yet at over 250 feet. In addition, two new ADA compliant curb ramps were installed next to Short Elementary School. These new curb ramps include the yellow dots which are called "raised truncated domes." Work is anticipated to be...

Freitas Park Water Feature – Construction Update

Posted on July 3, 2019

The water feature at Freitas Park was closed on Monday the 24th of June and will reopen the week of July 15. The rubber surface is going to be removed and replaced. We apologize for the inconvenience. We hope everyone has a wonderful time celebrating the fourth of July and we apologize for the inconvenience.

SMART Larkspur Extension Multi-Use Pathway

Posted on June 21, 2019

The Andersen to Rice Drive Multi-Use Pathway is inching towards completion. The last phase to install the SMART tracks next to the Multi-use Pathway is nearing its finish; however, the HAWK pedestrian traffic signaling still needs to be installed. SMART anticipates completing the track installation within the next few weeks and will start testing trains....

Grand Avenue Pedestrian Bridge

Posted on June 21, 2019

On Thursday, June 13th, Mayor Phillips, City staff, and project stakeholders descended on the newly opened pedestrian bridge to celebrate with a formal grand opening. The bridge is a long-awaited connection to east San Rafael communities and provides better accessibility for bicyclists and pedestrians. Approximately 40-50 residents, employees, and key stakeholders, including members of the...

Pickleweed Park Playground Replacement: Project Update

Posted on June 21, 2019

Replacement of the Pickleweed Park play structures is on schedule. By the end of this week, both playground areas at Pickleweed Park will have been filled with engineered wood fiber. This will provide a safe, impact-cushioned play surface. On the week of June 24th, the contractor will be working on adding the final touches, including...

Goat Grazing

Posted on June 21, 2019

Land Systems Management is the City of San Rafael’s 2019 goat contractor. The goats are currently up on Robert Dollar Hill working (eating) their way towards the Falkirk Center. Afterwards, the goats will be covering other City open space from Terra Linda to Peacock Gap.

Request for Proposals: Third Street Rehab Design Phase

Posted on June 19, 2019

The City of San Rafael (City) hereby requests proposals from qualified engineering Consultants for design, environmental clearance, and construction support services for the Third Street Rehabilitation Project. The final product sought is construction contract documents including plans, specifications and cost estimates ready for bid. This project may require the expertise of a multi-disciplined team consisting...

Sidewalk Repair Update: Roots, Sidewalks, and more Roots!

Posted on June 13, 2019

Work continues in the Gerstle Park neighborhood as the City and Van Midde and Son Concrete passed the 3,000 square foot milestone in the neighborhood. That's enough new sidewalk in the neighborhood to stretch two football fields long. Over 400 feet of curb and gutter have also been replaced. Work has slowed a little in...

Red Flag Warning In Effect for Marin County Until 5 p.m. 06/09/19

Posted on June 7, 2019

Marin County, CA -- The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for the North Bay Mountains and other parts of the Bay Area above 1000 feet, which is in effect from 9 PM this evening (Friday) to 5 PM Sunday. A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions are expected...

Utility Box Art, a San Rafael Leadership Institute Class Project, Finally Complete!

Posted on June 7, 2019

**We are currently not accepting applications to paint utility boxes but will re-evaluate as budgeting and policy changes. Please check back here for any future updates.** The San Rafael Chamber of Commerce Leadership Institute Class project wrapped up this week, with the completion of six painted utility boxes downtown. The project was developed to enhance...

Freitas Park

Posted on June 7, 2019

The spinning climbing structure at Freitas Park was due for another resurfacing. The Poured-in-Place (PIP) surface previously used was wearing out faster than expected. The Parks Department was able to find a better product with a lifetime warranty! The new tile was installed last week, and the Parks crew put the spinning structure back together...

2017 Storm Damage Repairs – 70 Irwin

Posted on June 7, 2019

The City’s contractor, Valentine Corporation, has installed the rebar in the final retaining wall and is almost done securing the forms. They are anticipating pouring concrete early next week. While the concrete is curing, they will work on the new drainage ditch on the other side of the road. Once the new concrete wall has...

Pickleweed Park Playground: Project Update

Posted on June 7, 2019

On May 28th, Community Playgrounds Inc. began work on the installation of our new playground structures at Pickleweed Park. We see the excitement of the community with several residents stopping by the site to ask questions, reading the posted multi-language banners, and some even bringing their children to watch the construction. The structures themselves should...

Grand Avenue Bridge Opening Soon

Posted on June 7, 2019

The City’s contractor is working towards the completion of the Grand Ave pedestrian bridge project. Remaining work includes removing the mid-block crosswalk in front of Toyota, as well as, installing a bridge deck treatment on the vehicle bridge. Expected completion of the project is June 11th. We anticipate opening the pedestrian bridge to the public...

Signal Timing Changes Around the Smart Train Downtown

Posted on June 7, 2019

Your drive across the railroad tracks downtown should be a little less maddening, after the Traffic Engineering division made some changes to the traffic signal timing in the vicinity of the train tracks downtown. The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has very strict rules about traffic signal timing around active railroad tracks, and for good...

Third Street Closure

Posted on June 7, 2019

One of the busiest arterials in Marin was closed last weekend to allow the Sonoma Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART) to construct a double track section across 2nd Street. The roadway was closed on Friday night at 8:00 pm and reopened on Sunday afternoon at 5:00 PM. The closure involved multiple stakeholders from Golden Gate...

Advisory: Upcoming Road Closure on 3rd Street (6/7-6/10)

Posted on June 4, 2019

3rd Street Closure Friday, June 7 at 8:00 p.m. to Monday, June 10 at 4:00 a.m Beginning on Friday, June 7 at 8 p.m. and ending on Monday, June 10 at 4 a.m., Third Street will be closed between Tamalpais Avenue to Hetherton Street. To travel westbound, use the following alternate routes: To travel westbound from...

SRP Update + Trees and Sidewalks Coexisting

Posted on May 29, 2019

Street Trees and Sidewalk: As the Sidewalk Repair Program (SRP) moves along, a common theme has played out throughout the City. The sight of trees, and specifically their roots damaging and lifting sidewalks is something most residents have seen firsthand. As a Tree City this presents a challenge, but the City of San Rafael has...

Advisory: Upcoming Road Closures on 2nd Street (5/31-6/3) and 3rd Street (6/7-6/10)

Posted on May 28, 2019

2nd Street Closure Friday, May 31 at 8:00 p.m. to Monday, June 3 at 4:00 a.m Beginning on Friday, May 31 at 8 p.m. and ending on Monday, June 3 at 4 a.m., 2nd Street will be closed between Tamalpais Avenue to Hetherton Street. To travel eastbound, access A Street from Second Street as follows: To...

Falkirk Mansion Re-roof completed

Posted on May 24, 2019

The Falkirk Mansion re-roof is complete. The contractor was able to complete the project a few days early and it was a good thing they did, as the last bout of rain started the day after they finished. Although the exact wood shake shingles were not replaced in-kind due to Fire Code requirements, the fiberglass...

Grand Avenue Bridge Nearing Completion

Posted on May 24, 2019

The contractor has completed the majority of concrete work on the project with only minor sidewalk work remaining. Next steps on the project include asphalt work within the Toyota Marin parking lot, as well as, on the north side of the canal where the City purchased the former Marin Motors parcel. During the second week...

Essential Facilities: Fire Station 52 Ready for Service!

Posted on May 24, 2019

After over two years of anticipation, and more than a decade in the making, we are all very excited to present this facility to the public. It was a joyous occasion for the San Rafael residents, city officials and firefighters that attended Fire Station 52 grand opening and dedication ceremony. Mayor Phillips and Fire Chief...

SMART: Larkspur Extension MUP Phase One

Posted on May 24, 2019

The MUP Phase-1 is nearly completed. The last phase is to install the SMART tracks next to the MUP before they close-in the security fence between the MUP and the tracks. SMART anticipates completing the track installation in the first or second week of June. Once that is completed, they will be able to finish...

Francisco Boulevard West Realignment at Rice Streets

Posted on May 24, 2019

The final work on the Francisco Blvd West realignment is completed and Francisco Blvd West at Rice Street has reopened. There was a bit of a delay from signaling issues, but it’s finally taking traffic!

Forbes Avenue – Sewer Improvement Project

Posted on May 10, 2019

The San Rafael Sanitation District will be advertising the Forbes Avenue Sewer Improvement Project, which includes El Cerrito Avenue and 21 to 141 Fairhills Drive, on May 13, 2019. The project consists of replacing close to 3,000 lineal feet of sanitary sewer pipeline. The Engineers will perform a Public Outreach Meeting at the project site...

Stop Signs take Over Yield Signs

Posted on May 10, 2019

The first STOP sign appeared in 1915 in Detroit, Michigan. There were a variety of colors used for STOP signs until the late 1920s, when the background color was standardized on yellow for maximum day and night visibility. Remember that this was several years before the invention of glass-bead retro-reflectorization for sign faces, so a...

Cayes Pump Station Repairs

Posted on May 10, 2019

The Cayes Pump Station is a small drainage pump station that manages the drainage in the Spinnaker and Baypoint neighborhoods in the Canal. This pump station also manages the water levels in the adjacent pond which fronts both neighborhoods. Over the last winter, which was wetter than normal, a significant leak in the pipe outfall...