Public Works News - San Rafael

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...

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

Posted on July 16, 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...

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.

ALERT MARIN EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION SYSTEM

Posted on July 3, 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...

Preparing for Extended Power Outages

Posted on June 24, 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...

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....

Third Street Rehabilitation Project

Posted on June 21, 2019

The Third Street Rehabilitation project (from Second-Fourth Street to Grand Avenue) is moving forward from the feasibility study and on to the environmental and design phase! Staff and the consultant team presented the feasibility study to City Council on June 3rd. After listening to comments from the community regarding the desire for a two-way bicycle...

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

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 the beauty and vibrancy of San Rafael and bring art to unexpected places. Through the efforts of this project, six local artists were commissioned to showcase...

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...

Stop! In the Name of Love

Posted on May 10, 2019

UPDATE: After hearing concerns from our residents, the Traffic Engineering division completed an analysis for an All Way STOP at Merrydale Road and US 101 South Ramps and got approval from Caltrans to do the work. Streets Maintenance Crews painted STOP legends and limit lines, refreshed striping, and installed STOP signs and advanced warning signs....

6 Utility Boxes are Getting Painted in Downtown San Rafael!

Posted on May 10, 2019

You might have noticed some painting of public property downtown this week. Don’t worry, these street artists have a permit! The 2019 San Rafael Leadership Institute (SRLI) class project kicked off this week: bringing art to Downtown San Rafael on six City-owned utility boxes around the Downtown corridor and transit center. The San Rafael Leadership...

Online Encroachment Permit Application and Payments

Posted on May 10, 2019

The Department of Public Works is pleased to announce that Encroachment Permit applications and payments will now be accepted online at www.cityofsanrafael.org/epapply. Property owners and contractors will now be able to apply for all types of encroachment permits and make payment via credit card. Once applied for staff will review the permit and send the...

Park-A-Month Volunteer Program

Posted on May 10, 2019

The Park-A-Month Volunteer Program has begun! This fun family-friendly volunteer program helps keep our San Rafael Parks in great shape! The events take place on the third Saturday of each month. On April 20th, Parks personnel and neighborhood volunteers worked together to help clean up the Terra Linda Community Center. The next event is at...

Richmond San Rafael Bridge – Joint Repair Update

Posted on May 10, 2019

Work continues to replace the upper deck bridge joints on the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge. Caltrans is providing weekly progress updates and the work is expected to be complete in July. During this activity, motorists can expect nightly lane closures and steel plates at various locations on the bridge roadway surface.

Pickleweed Park: Preparing for the New Playground

Posted on May 10, 2019

Public Works has received the new playground equipment for Pickleweed Park. The purchase of the equipment was funded by a Community Development Block Grant administered by Marin County. DPW is obtaining the services of a certified playground installer as well as a specialty firm to install the equipment and engineered wood fiber surface. The playground...

Gerstle Park Sidewalk Repair Ramps-up

Posted on May 10, 2019

With great weather to work, Van Midde and Son Concrete has been busy and working hard to replace sidewalk, curb and gutter in Gerstle Park. A program high, 12 properties are currently in the midst of getting their sidewalk repaired with 7 more properties expected to break ground within the next two weeks. Last week,...

Grand Opening Celebration of Fire Station 52

Posted on May 9, 2019

Join us next Monday, May 13 at 5 p.m. for the Hose Uncoupling Ceremony and Housing of the Engine at the grand opening of Fire Station 52! Refreshments will be served and tours of the new station will be conducted. We hope to see you there!

2019 Pt San Pedro Medians Landscaping RFP

Posted on May 3, 2019

Link to full 2019 Pt San Pedro Medians Landscaping Request for Proposals (RFP) The City of San Rafael (City) hereby requests proposals for routine landscape maintenance. It is the intent of the City to hire a fully-licensed landscaping contractor that is duly registered and licensed with either a C61 or C27 license in the State...

2018 Sidewalk Repair Complete in Sun Valley

Posted on April 26, 2019

Another week, another milestone! The 2018 Sidewalk Repair program poured concrete at the last property in Sun Valley today. With Sun Valley complete, the focus will turn to Gerstle Park with a heavy schedule lined up to take advantage of this perfect weather. Sun Valley by the Numbers: Total locations with sidewalk or curb and...

Partial Lane Closure Along C Street, Between 4th & 5th Street

Posted on April 25, 2019

Tomorrow, the subcontractor, Teichert Construction for PG&E, will be closing one lane along C street between 4th and 5th Street to install a natural gas line for the future Tamalpais Brewing Co at 1300 4th Street . Work will be performed and completed between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM. Through traffic will be permitted during...

2nd Street Night Closure – April 23-25,2019

Posted on April 22, 2019

Starting tomorrow evening, Central Valley Engineering and Asphalt will be repaving 2nd Street from A Street to Lindaro Street and Lindaro Street to Andersen Drive to conclude PG&E's gas main replacement work. Partial street closure will begin at 8:00 P.M. with a full closure beginning at 9:00 P.M., the street will re-open at 6:00 A.M. Please use Andersen...

Albert Park Playground Re-Opening Ceremony Flier

Albert Park – Ribbon Cutting & Grand Re-Opening

Posted on April 22, 2019

Join us on April 29 at 3:30 p.m. for the official re-opening of the Albert Park Playground. Help us celebrate our community partners, donors, and staff for making this project such a success! Refreshments will be provided. The playground is located at 618 B Street between the San Rafael Community Center & Marin Bocce Federation....

SMART Larkspur Extension: Realignment Update

Posted on April 19, 2019

The SMART Larkspur Extension construction work on the Francisco Blvd. West realignment and Phase-1 of the Multi-Use Path (from Rice Street to Andersen Drive) is nearing completion. Although most of the work for both Francisco Blvd West and the MUP has been completed, there is a lot of work needed to be done on the...

Southern Heights: Project Design

Posted on April 19, 2019

On Monday, April 15th, the City Council approved seven temporary construction easements associated with renting private property. The project design continues to advance toward completion, which we anticipate by June 2019. The design team continues to coordinate with several private utility companies regarding the relocation of one wood utility pole as well as the installation...

Falkirk Mansion: New Roof!

Posted on April 19, 2019

The Falkirk Mansion is scheduled to get a new roof within the first few weeks of May. The badly needed roofing will replace the aged wood-shake shingles with a new fiberglass wood-shake-look shingle. Needing to keep within the fire code requirements, the fiberglass shingles were a good solution, and were carefully chosen based on their ...

Paint and Signs, Paint and Signs…

Posted on April 19, 2019

Have you noticed the new parking lot signs around town? Streets Maintenance Crews received the first parking lot sign work order from Parking Services to install our beautiful new parking lot signs! The sign pictured is at the 3rd and Cijos Street lot. You may also notice the revamping of fresh paint in our handicap...

MCSTOPP Receives Grant for Trash Control Infrastructure

Posted on April 19, 2019

The Marin County Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program (MCSTOPPP) made up of Marin’s 11 cities and towns and the County of Marin recently received a nearly $700,000 grant to fund trash control infrastructure. MCSTOPPP was one of eight Bay Area communities that were selected by the EPA for funding. This is an important boost to local...

Grand Avenue Pedestrian Bridge: Ramps Being Installed

Posted on April 19, 2019

Over the last couple of weeks, the Contractor has made great progress on the bridge project by forming the approach ramps leading to each side of the pedestrian bridge. Additionally, the Contractor recently relocated parking lot lighting and a water line inside of the Toyota parking lot. Electrical work on the pedestrian bridge itself is...

Marin Half Marathon Road Closure on Pt. San Pedro – 4/28 7:30 – 11:30 am

Posted on April 17, 2019

Sustainable Sports Foundation will be hosting the eleventh annual Marin County Half Marathon event on Sunday, April 28 at McNears Beach. Starting at 7:30 a.m. until approximately 11 :30 a.m., Point San Pedro Road will be closed at the east entrance of Biscayne, through China Camp State Park. Access through China Camp will not be...

Weather Update – Monday, April 15, 2019

Posted on April 15, 2019

Synopsis: The NWS is predicting a fast-moving storm to hit the area today bringing about 1/3” of rain. Most of the precipitation is predicted to occur late this afternoon into the early evening. Dry, warming conditions are then expected to occur for the remainder of the week. It is entirely possible that spring has officially...

2018 Sidewalk Repair Program Reaches the Quarter Way Mark

Posted on April 12, 2019

Despite the second wettest winter on record, the 2018 Sidewalk Repair reached the quarter way mark this week. With 7 more locations completed in the last two weeks, the program has now replaced sidewalks at 37 properties. Work continued in Gerstle Park as four locations on E St were successfully completed. With the rains tapering...

PG&E Contractors to Inspect Gas Meters in Marin County

Posted on April 11, 2019

SAN RAFAEL, Calif. — As part of PG&E’s ongoing efforts to provide safe and reliable gas service to customers, contractors will perform routine gas meter inspections in Novato, San Rafael, Mill Valley, Sausalito and Tiburon this week. Contract workers are inspecting approximately 18,000 residential and commercial gas meters. The contractors with Underground Construction are carrying a...

Open House Experience

Posted on April 5, 2019

Public Works and the San Rafael Sanitation District work around the clock to make sure that our infrastructure is functioning properly: our roads, traffic signals, sewers, bridges, City buildings, and more. Last week we opened our doors to City staff, residents and the community members of San Rafael for a behind-the-scenes look in to what...

Public Works and Community Development Joint Stormwater Training

Posted on April 5, 2019

With the help of Rob Carson, Program Administrator of the Marin County Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program, Public Works and Community Development met to learn about stormwater systems, and the rules and regulations that govern discharge to our creeks and bays. About 25 city employees attended the two-hour training at City Hall. The City, under a...

Basement Work in the Public Safety Center

Posted on April 5, 2019

The basement at the PSC is looking more gorgeous each day. The concrete block walls have been installed allowing for plumbing, fire sprinkler piping and ductwork to be placed in the basement. Large pieces of equipment are being delivered and stored in the basement so that they are available as needed to expidite construction. A...

Ready, Set, PLAY! Albert Park Grand Opening April 29th

Posted on April 5, 2019

The City’s contractor, M3 Integrated Services, has installed the resilient rubber surfacing at the Albert Park play area. The landscapers were out this week starting some beautification improvements to the park. Once the final touches have been completed the City will be holding a ribbon cutting ceremony which is scheduled for April 29th at 3:30...

Saturated Soil: 70 Irwin Update

Posted on April 5, 2019

The City’s contractor Valentine Corp. resumed work last week. Due to the heavy rains the site was saturated with water and mud. Valentine Corp removed over 400 cubic yards of mud and installed spring drains that will divert several liters per minute out of the hill through a subterranean drainage system.

Almost Solar Ready: City Hal Switchgear

Posted on April 5, 2019

Cal Elite Builders poured the retaining wall for the new eletrical pad on Saturday. They have started compacting back-fill inside of the wall in preparation for pouring the new electrical pad. After this project is complete and new switch gear is installed the infrastructure at City Hall will be ready for solar panel installation on...

Bridge Over Calm Waters: Grand Avenue Bridge

Posted on April 5, 2019

On Friday, March 15th, the City’s contractor hit a major milestone by installing the new pedestrian bridge over San Rafael canal. At 1:20 AM, a very large crane, stationed inside of the Toyota Marin parking lot, hoisted the bridge into place capping many years of planning and design. The installation of the bridge took a...

Final Touches to Fire Station 52

Posted on April 5, 2019

Alten Construction is currently installing the final touches to complete Fire Station 52. During the last few weeks Alten Construction has replaced the sidewalks, and curb and gutter. The landscaping, irrigation and planting to help enhance the project is already complete. The fire crews will be pleased to know that the bedroom furniture has been...

PG&E to Install Power at Fire Station 57

Posted on April 5, 2019

The Civic Center Dr. fire station is nearing completion too. The contractor has nearly finished taping and finishing the interior walls and painting has begun. Although, the site work has been impacted by the rain, the team projects to complete the concrete transformer pad to receive PG&E inspection in early April in time for PG&E...

Sidewalk Repair Program Update: 2nd St Work Complete, Gerstle Park Work Begins

Posted on March 29, 2019

Despite the continued on and off wet weather, Van Midde and Son Concrete and the City have been hard at work completing new sidewalk, curb and gutter. On Second Street alone, 2,000 sqft of sidewalk, 200 feet of curb and gutter, and a new storm drain were recently completed. With all the rain, the benefits...

Sidewalk Repair Program project underway on 2nd Street this week

Posted on March 13, 2019

If you've driven down Second Street this week - you may have noticed a lane closure along with some pretty major sidewalk construction between C and D Streets. Van Midde & Son Concrete began work on Monday with what might be one of the largest square footage of sidewalk repair in this year's program. The...

Weather Update – Monday March 11, 2019

Posted on March 11, 2019

We should expect a drying and warming trend this week and into the coming weekend. YAY! The rain previously predicted for tomorrow is now expected to fizzle-out before it reaches the Bay area, so we’re expecting dry conditions for the whole week. Tides: Tide peaks for this week are predicted to range between 5.3-ft and 6.2-ft. With the predicted...

Heads Up! New All Way STOP

Posted on March 8, 2019

The Traffic Engineering Division got the go ahead from Caltrans to install an All Way STOP at Merrydale Road and US 101 South Ramps! The work includes: painting stop legends and limit lines, refreshing striping, and installing STOP signs and advanced warning signs. Our maintenance crews will do the installation in the wee hours of...

Another Storm Article – 2019 Slides

Posted on March 8, 2019

Over the last several weeks we have seen an extraordinary amount of rainfall pass through Marin County (see Rain, Rain Go Away article). Storm weather services have categorized some of the storms as atmospheric rivers”, a flashy name for a plume of tropical moisture in the atmosphere that can result in heavy rainfall or snowfall...

North Francisco Pump Station Replacement

Posted on March 8, 2019

The North Francisco Pump Station was built by Caltrans in 1999. Its purpose is to pump large amounts of water from the surrounding area including the freeway, the Gerstle Park, and Bret Harte neighborhoods into the bay. There are 4, 250 horsepower (hp) motors and 2, 30 hp pumps, each 40 feet long, at this...

Rain, Rain Go Away!

Posted on March 8, 2019

Dear March, we don’t want any trouble from you. February was a little iffy, so just come in, sit down, and don’t touch anything! Last week another major storm hit the Bay Area. Localized flooding due to rainfall and tides were recurrent but, our well-prepared City Maintenance crews worked through the evening and early morning...

Grand Avenue Bridge Delivery

Posted on March 8, 2019

Over the past few weeks Valentine Corp. has removed and replaced the concrete barrier on the east side of the Grand Ave vehicle bridge. The new pedestrian bridge arrived Friday morning (March 8th) in two pieces and is being stored inside of the Toyota Marin parking lot so that final assembly and installation of the...

SMART Larkspur Extension Update 3/08/2019

Posted on March 8, 2019

The SMART Larkspur Extension construction work on the Francisco Blvd. West realignment and Phase-1 of the Multi-Use Path (from Rice Street to Andersen Drive) has been slowed a bit due to the rain. Ghilotti Brothers was able to squeeze-in one concrete pour for the MUP down at the Anderson Street connection. There are two small...

We’re Watching You

Posted on March 8, 2019

The Traffic Engineering Division is working hard to get our traffic signals modernized, starting with video detection. The cameras were installed at 4 locations (Mission/Hetherton, 2nd/Hetherton, 2nd/Irwin, 2nd/Grand). The images below are of 2nd Street/Irwin Street. The “MioVision” fish eye camera provides a live stream of the intersection; the second image shows the cars from...

Sidewalk Repair Program still in Sun Valley through March

Posted on March 3, 2019

Over the next two weeks, Van Midde & Son Concrete will continue to work on the following Sun Valley locations: 150 Forbes Ave 1623 Fifth Ave 1702 Fifth Ave 210 H Street 222 H Street 1840 Fifth Ave 1848 Fifth Ave 1902 Fifth Ave 222 H street 149 Center Heavy rain and winter weather in...

Play Structure Voting Results

Posted on March 1, 2019

Over the last couple of weeks, Theo Sanchez & Kevin McGowan of the Public Works Department have made presentations for the Pickleweed Advisory Board Committee and Parks & Recreation Commission to discuss the potential playground structures and gather additional feedback from the community. The Advisory Board and the Parks & Recreation Commission were both pleased...

Weekly Weather Update from the National Weather Service

Posted on February 25, 2019

Synopsis: Another atmospheric river (AR) storm has arrived to the Bay area. Coming from the south Pacific it will bring copious amounts of precipitation from the subtropics as it drifts slowly southward into the San Francisco Bay Area over the next 24 hours. It is predicted to then stall-out through late Tuesday night, resulting in...

Uncontrolled Crossing Evaluation and Prioritization

Posted on February 22, 2019

The Traffic Division is completing an assessment of uncontrolled crossings throughout the City and we will be chipping away at improvements now through summertime. An uncontrolled crosswalk is anywhere there is a marked crosswalk and cross traffic does not have to stop except for when a pedestrian is present. In this initial assessment, we studied...

Public Works and Parking Services Team Up to Save You Time!

Posted on February 22, 2019

City Employee: What’s that? You’re applying for an encroachment permit (EP)? Resident/Contractor: Yes, we’ll be painting, and we’ll need to place scaffolding on the sidewalk, I think we’ll need to take up two parking spaces as well. City Employee: Okay, you’ll need to apply for the EP here, jump through a ring of fire, tame...

Update: SMART Larkspur Extension – Phase 1 Near Completion

Posted on February 22, 2019

The SMART Larkspur Extension construction work on the Francisco Blvd. West realignment and Phase-1 of the Multi-Use Path (from Rice Street to Andersen Drive) is rapidly nearing completion. The section of roadway from 2nd Street to Irwin Drive was opened for traffic earlier this month. The Francisco Blvd. West and Rice Drive intersection, where the...

Public Safety Center – Update 2/22/2019

Posted on February 22, 2019

The Public Safety Center construction team has been finding ways to make progress and work around the storms. Currently, most of the structural steel has been erected and the metal framing has started at the ground level. The electrical, plumbing, and mechanical subcontractors have been working in the basement.

Fire Station #57 – Update – 2/22/2019

Posted on February 22, 2019

Fire Station #57 construction of interior walls is underway. Sheetrock continues to be installed and the contractor is moving toward mechanical, electrical and plumbing inspections before closing the walls. They are also chipping away at the site work while maximizing their efforts on every clear day that they can get. Despite the heavy rains, they...

Fire Station #52 – Project completion is approaching

Posted on February 22, 2019

The Contractor has been working in the rain and on the weekends to complete our new Fire Station #52. They are installing interior finishes and completing testing and commissioning of equipment. They will be pouring the last portion of the approach, curb, and sidewalk by the end of next week. Pavers, side gates and planting...

Terra Linda Community Center: New Floor

Posted on February 22, 2019

The Terra Linda Community Center (TLCC) is receiving new flooring in their main auditorium. The work is expected to be completed this week and we’re very happy with how it’s turning out. We went with a very durable vinyl product that we expect to last 15 to 20 years. Despite a few minor initial bumps...

Storm Patrol: Tree Down

Posted on February 22, 2019

Public Works employees Aaron Tubbs and Jim O’Hagan got a call about a fallen tree at 3:00 am on February 14th while working overnight during the storm. They found this in the roadway near Grand Ave and Villa Ave. A temporary detour was set-up until the tree contractor was able to clear the road.

Storm Response: Weathering the Storm

Posted on February 22, 2019

Last Wednesday & Thursday San Rafael received almost 8” inches of rainfall in a 24-hour period over. On Wednesday evening our rain gauge displayed nearly 15 inches of rainfall for the year, 6 of those inches had been collected last 24 hours of that reading. Crazy!!! Crews from San Rafael Public Works worked around the...

Albert Park Play Area Improvements

Posted on February 22, 2019

The City’s contractor M3 Integrated Services has installed the playground equipment and is on track to install the resilient rubber surfacing the first week of March. Next week they will be working on the sidewalk between the Marin Bocce Federation and the B Street community center.

Albert Park Baseball Fields

Posted on February 22, 2019

In between storm clean-up duties, the Parks Department was able to finish installing new drain lines to help alleviate a perpetual soggy corner of the Albert’s ball field. Work also continued on the ball field to prepare for the upcoming season, which starts 2/21/19. Parks staff are pictured as they rebuild the pitcher’s mound.

2/20/19 – Follow Sidewalk Repair Program progress on our map

Posted on February 20, 2019

Did you know that you can follow which Sidewalk Repair Program properties have been completed from on our interactive Encroachment Permits Map? Simply click "Filters" on the left side, under "Permit Type" select "Sidewalk Repair Program". The click the three arrows in the top right of the left panel to collapse it to view the map...

Weekly Weather Update from the National Weather Service

Posted on February 11, 2019

Synopsis We should expect lingering rain showers this morning with a drying trend into the afternoon today. Drier conditions should prevail until early evening tomorrow where an atmospheric river is predicted to arrive bringing heavy rain and strong winds. This storm is predicted to bring about 2.65-inches of rain between 4PM Tuesday to 10PM Wednesday. ...

2/08/2019 – City Hall Switch Gear Replacement

Posted on February 8, 2019

The City’s contractor Cal Elite Builders has been working diligently on installing the new PG&E primary line for the new transformer that will sit adjacent City Hall. They have also been placed 40 electrical vehicle (EV) charging station conduits for the 2 EV charging stations as well as future EV charging stations throughout the upper...

2/08/2019 – Pickleweed Park Playground Equipment Replacement

Posted on February 8, 2019

The City received a federal grant for the replacement of playground structures at Pickleweed Park. The project will remove the existing swings, slides, accessory structures, & sand which have been there for some 20 years and replace them with brand new structures & fill the play area with engineered wood fiber. We have conducted...

2/08/2019 – Albert Park Play Area Improvements

Posted on February 8, 2019

The City’s contractor M3 Integrated Services poured the first of sidewalk this week and they have also started to assemble the playground equipment. The park is scheduled to open in April.

2/08/2019 – 2017 Storm Damage Repairs: 70 Irwin

Posted on February 8, 2019

The City’s contractor Valentine Corporation has started rebuilding the slope above the lower concrete wall. The project has been plagued with weather delays and wet soil which has pushed the opening of Upper Irwin back to late April.

2/08/2019 – SMART Update: Partial Opening

Posted on February 8, 2019

On Thursday, February 7th, SMART’s contractor opened the portion of Francisco Blvd West between 2nd St and Irwin St. This partial opening will reduce the impact to businesses located on Irwin St and allow traffic to more easily access the freeway. SMART’s contractor continues to coordinate with the Marin Municipal Water District regarding the installation...

2/08/2019 – Grand Avenue Update: Sidewalk and Railing

Posted on February 8, 2019

The City’s contractor, Valentine Corp, has completed work on the west side of the Grand Ave vehicle bridge by installing a new sidewalk and barrier railing. Vehicle traffic has been shifted, again, such that the contractor is in the process of removing the existing sidewalk on the east side of the vehicle bridge. A new...

Richmond-San Rafael Bridge (I-580) Closed in Both Directions

Posted on February 7, 2019

The Richmond-San Rafael Bridge is closed in both directions due to structural problems. There is no estimated time to reopen the bridge. Expect delays and use alternate routes to avoid the area. For updates, visit 511.org. To sign up for urgent alerts, text your zip code to 888777 or visit www.nixle.com.

Cold Weather Expected; Stay Warm & Drive Safely

Posted on February 4, 2019

We should expect rain showers throughout the rest of the day with a potential of thunderstorms later this afternoon and evening. This latest spell of wet weather is predicted to break late tonight or early tomorrow morning bringing dry weather through early Friday morning when more rain is predicted to start up and last throughout...

Pickleweed Playground Equipment, Place Your Vote!

Posted on February 4, 2019

The San Rafael Department of Public Works is in collaboration with San Rafael Community Services Department to replace the play structures at Pickleweed Park and we’re looking for feedback from the community. Please help spread the word; residents are encouraged and welcome to attend the Pickleweed Advisory Board Community Meeting next Wednesday, February 6 from 7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Those who cannot attend can view and vote for their favorite play structure designs online....

Update: Road Closure on Monday 2/11 on 2nd Street between A Street and Lindaro Street

Posted on February 1, 2019

PG&E has been working along 2nd Street and Lindaro Street during the evenings the last few months to remove a casing from their 16-inch gas transmission line. Following an inspection, it was determined that a welded repair on the pipeline is now required. To get this done, 2nd Street will be closed from A street to Lindaro Street beginning on Monday 2/11 from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. Please use alternative routes to...