Renderings of the proposed Slatten Ranch Townhomes (above) and Wildflower Station Townhomes (below). Source: DeNova Homes
DeNova Homes proposes129-unit Slatten Ranch Townhomes Project, next to J.C. Penney store which Freitas strongly opposes and 159-unit Wildflower Station Townhomes 2 Multifamily Residential Project on Hillcrest Avenue near Deer Valley Road
“I am furious that this is being shoved down our throats. I do not want to give up some prime property for economic development.” – District 3 Councilman Don Freitas
By Allen D. Payton
The two proposed housing projects by DeNova Homes will return for the Antioch City Council to consider during their meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2025. An indictment by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California of the company’s co-founder and his vice president son for alleged bribery of an Antioch Councilman last year was announced in April.
The alleged bribe was related to a previous project in Antioch, known as Aviano, a multi-phase, 533-unit single-family home residential development in the Sand Creek area on the south side of the city.
Proposed Slatten Ranch Townhome Project Location Map. Source: DeNova Homes
The two developments are the proposed 129-unit Slatten Ranch Townhomes Project (#5 on the agenda), located on a 6.41-acre vacant project site north of Wicklow Way next to the J.C. Penney store, east of Slatten Ranch Road and west of Empire Avenue; and the 159-unit Wildflower Station Townhomes 2 Multifamily Residential Project (#6 on the agenda) planned for the four-parcel, 10.35 acre vacant property near the intersection of Hillcrest Avenue and Deer Valley Road and bordered by Wildflower Drive to the east and the road next to the KFC restaurant in the Hillcrest Crossroads shopping center which also serves the existing condo development.
Wildflower Station Townhomes 2 Site Map. Source: City of Antioch
The Council previously considered the projects during their meeting on Sept. 23, 2025, but postponed both to Tuesday’s meeting following opposition from the public and council concerns. District 3 Councilman Don Freitas offered the strongest opposition to the Slatten Ranch project which is planned for the East Lone Tree Focus Area. The 200 acres north of Hwy 4 and east of Laurel Road were set aside by the City Council in 1998 and planned for commercial and economic development for the creation of local, well-paying jobs. But the previous council rezoned a portion of the property to allow for housing.
“I have lots of problems with this particular project. It’s both a blessing and a curse,” he stated then shared that during his years as mayor from 2000-2008, “J.C. Penney’s came forward and locate on the site they eventually built on,” due to the freeway access.
“That area was envisioned as one of the most important economic development sites in the City of Antioch,” Freitas continued. “This project doesn’t belong in this space. That’s why I oppose this project.”
“While housing is critical, so is economic development,” he added. “I am furious that this is being shoved down our throats. I do not want to give up some prime property for economic development.” (See 3:01:51 mark of meeting video)
However, plans for the housing projects were submitted under SB 330, the Housing Crisis Act of 2019 (D-Skinner), which Freitas referenced, and gives development special provisions in the approval process, which, among other things, limits the total number of hearings by a local government agency.
Slatten Ranch Townhome Development Plan. Source: DeNova Homes
City staff recommends that the City Council adopt the resolution approving the Vesting Tentative Subdivision Maps for both the development of the 17 Slatten Ranch Townhome and 19 Wildflower Station Townhome buildings and Design Review for the proposed architecture and landscaping for each project.
The meeting will be held in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 200 H Street, in Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown. They can also be viewed via livestream on the City’s website and the City’s YouTube Channel, on Comcast Cable Channel 24 or AT&T U-verse Channel 99.
Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Marshals Service are searching for wanted murder suspect Isaiah James Andrews. Photo: Contra Costa Sheriff
U.S. Marshalls Service Fugitive Apprehension Task Force with Antioch Police Officers participating, assist in search
“The Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the release of an inmate identified as 20-year-old Isaiah Jamon Andrews of Kent, Washington, from the Martinez Detention Facility.
He was released on October 22, 2025. At the time, Andrews had been held on local charges, a juvenile warrant out of Sacramento, and an out-of-state arrest warrant for homicide.
After Sheriff’s Office staff realized Andrews had been released, we launched a search of the immediate area and confirmed that Andrews was no longer in the area. The search for Andrews is ongoing by the U.S. Marshals Service. Local law enforcement agencies have also been notified.
According to a reader of the Herald who chose to remain anonymous, Seattle Police were on their way to Martinez to pick up Andrews when they were informed that he’d been released.
Anyone with any information on the whereabouts of Andrews is asked to call 9-1-1. The Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office can be reached at (925) 646-2441. For any tips, email: tips@so.cccounty.us or call (866) 846-3592 to leave an anonymous voice message.”
According to localcrimenews.com, Andrews was arrested by Antioch Police for being a fugitive from justice and evasion with wanton disregard for safety.
According to Antioch PD Lt. Bill Whitaker, per Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, the U.S. Marshals Service Fugitive Apprehension Task Force, with Antioch Police Officers participating, are assisting in the search for Andrews. Asked about Andrews’ residency, Whitaker said, “He is from and lives in Kent. He was here hiding out with a family member.”
Asked why the Sheriff’s Office did not inform the public after Andrews was released, Lee did not respond. Please check back later for any updates to this report.
By Vanessa Vizard, Vizard Marketing & PR for CalKids
Contra Costa, CA — Contra Costa County families welcoming a new baby can also celebrate another milestone: their child’s very first scholarship. Through the California Kids Investment and Development Savings Program (CalKIDS), every child born in the state on or after July 1, 2022, automatically has a CalKIDS Scholarship Account waiting in their name — including more than $2 million in scholarship funds set aside for children in Contra Costa County alone.
CalKIDS is the nation’s largest children’s development account program, designed to support college and career training. For newborns and young children, the state invests up to $175 in a CalKIDS Scholarship Account:
$100 for being born in California (babies born July 1, 2023, or later; $25 for those born between July 1, 2022 and June 30, 2023)
$25 extra when parents claim the account online
$50 extra for linking the account to a ScholarShare 529 College Savings Plan
That’s up to $175 already invested in a child’s future, long before applications, admissions essays, or financial aid forms come into play.
“At First 5 California, we recognize that supporting healthy development begins with a commitment to ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive,” said Jackie Thu-Huong Wong, Executive Director of First 5 California. “CalKIDS is a powerful way to show families that their child’s future matters from the very beginning.”
With August, September, and October among the most common birth months in California, thousands of families are becoming newly eligible for a CalKIDS Scholarship. It’s a timely opportunity for parents to take an easy first step that can grow into a lifelong advantage for their child’s education.
How to Claim Your Baby’s Scholarship
Claiming is quick, easy, and free at CalKIDS.org. Parents and guardians just need three pieces of information:
The county where their child was born
Their child’s date of birth
The 13-digit Local Registration Number (LRN) on the birth certificate, or the unique CalKIDS code mailed to their home
Once claimed, families can log in anytime to view balances, link a ScholarShare 529 Account, and learn how funds can be used. Eligible expenses include tuition and fees, required books and supplies, and computer equipment at accredited higher education institutions nationwide.
“I appreciate the forward thinking of CalKIDS by investing in the education of our next generation! Starting to save for college early will pay dividends in the long run,” said Contra Costa parent Joshua Tan.
Small Actions Make a Big Difference
Research shows that children with even small savings for higher education are three times more likely to attend college and four times more likely to graduate. Education is also one of the most powerful tools to break the cycle of poverty — a college degree can nearly double lifetime earnings. By giving every child in California a first scholarship, CalKIDS brings that opportunity to families from day one and makes the path to higher education more attainable for millions.
Across California, CalKIDS is working with hospitals, county offices, and community partners like United Ways of California to ensure families know about this opportunity from the very beginning.
“Every child deserves the chance to dream big, and that starts from the moment they are born. CalKIDS is helping families of newborns begin saving for education and career training right away. United Ways of California is proud to support this effort, which aligns with our work to expand economic mobility and opportunity across the state,” said Mandy Nand, Associate Director of Economic Mobility, United Ways of California. “United Ways of California is thrilled to support CalKIDS. By providing funds to every newborn, California is giving families peace of mind and an important financial foundation for their child’s future. This effort reflects our mission to help families build stability and opportunity from the very start of life.”
Since its launch in 2022, CalKIDS has become the largest child development account program in the country. In addition to newborns, CalKIDS also created accounts for over 4 million public school students, accounting for more than 5 million children total with CalKIDS Scholarship Accounts and $2 billion invested. More than 700,000 families have claimed their scholarships, turning possibility into action.
Families can learn more and claim their baby’s first scholarship today at CalKIDS.org.
About CalKIDS: The California Kids Investment and Development Savings Program (CalKIDS) is the nation’s largest child development account program, providing scholarships for higher education. Administered by the ScholarShare Investment Board, and Chaired by State Treasurer Fiona Ma, CPA, the program is designed to promote the pursuit of higher education statewide by empowering families to build assets, nurture savings habits, and raise their educational aspirations. Eligible public school students can receive CalKIDS Scholarships worth up to $1,500 and every child born in California on or after July 1, 2022, is awarded a CalKIDS Scholarship worth up to $175, ensuring more families have the resources needed to support their children’s education. To learn more, visit CalKIDS.org.
Will subcontract with Antioch Chamber of Commerce Foundation
By Juliet V. Casey Director of Marketing, Los Medanos College
PITTSBURG, Calif. – Contra Costa County selected Los Medanos College (LMC) to lead a $1 million initiative aimed at strengthening the nonprofit sector in East Contra Costa County. The East County Nonprofit Capacity Building Program, approved by the Contra Costa Community College District Board of Trustees this month, aims to develop future nonprofit leaders and to expand organizational effectiveness across the region.
The initiative will serve communities including Bay Point, Pittsburg, Antioch, Oakley, Brentwood, Byron, Discovery Bay, Knightsen and Bethel Island. LMC was chosen for its proven ability to deliver high-quality education and workforce development programs tailored to community needs.
LMC President Pamela Ralson said the college is eager to move forward, having worked over the past year to create more learning opportunities to support nonprofits. The next step will be to establish the educational programming for the initiative, which runs through Oct. 31, 2028.
Ralston recognized local leaders for their foresight in supporting the initiative.
“County Supervisors, and Supervisors Diane Burgis and Shanelle Scales-Preston in particular, see the value of developing and training future leaders across the nonprofit landscape in our area,” she said. “LMC is proud to be a partner in that effort.”
Contra Costa County Supervisor Diane Burgis said she is grateful for all the community partners who collaborated on the initiative.
“My goal is for this to help train the current and next generation of nonprofit leaders in East County and help all small- and medium-sized nonprofits succeed,” she said.
The initiative features:
Educational programming: Fee-based seminars and free workshops on nonprofit management, plus academic courses that stack toward certificates and degrees.
Mini-grants: Funding for paid internships and capacity-building projects, with priority given to organizations serving low- to moderate-income and historically underserved communities.
Leadership development: A cohort program for mid- to senior-level nonprofit staff, offering executive skills, mentorship, and peer networking.
Nonprofit Resource Hub: A collaborative space for nonprofit entrepreneurship and shared learning.
“Building capacity among East Contra Costa County nonprofits is not simply a ‘good idea,’ it is necessary for ensuring sustainability and a steady flow of services to our most in-need constituents those nonprofits serve,” Contra Costa County Supervisor Shanelle Scales-Preston said. “We could not think of a more appropriate strategic partner than Los Medanos College to work collaboratively in this endeavor.”
LMC will subcontract with the Antioch Chamber of Commerce Foundation to manage the project, including hiring a dedicated project manager and convening an advisory group of nonprofit leaders and curriculum experts. The chamber has long advocated for local businesses and nonprofit organizations, which unlike other businesses are not aiming to make a profit, rather they use money for the public good, said Jim Becker, incoming board chair for the Antioch Chamber of Commerce.
“Nonprofits make up 20% of the local economy, and they run just like other businesses. They need HR, financial and legal compliance,” he said. “It’s really exciting to partner with LMC to provide greater and broader access to nonprofit business education.”
About Los Medanos College (LMC): LMC is one of three colleges in the Contra Costa Community College District serving the East Contra Costa County community. Established in 1974, LMC has earned federal designations as a Minority-Serving and Hispanic-Serving institution. It offers award-winning transfer and career-technical programs, support services, and diverse academic opportunities in an inclusive learning environment. With exceptional educators, innovative curriculum, growing degree and certificate offerings, and state-of-the-art facilities, the college prepares students to succeed in their educational pursuits, in the workforce, and beyond. LMC’s Pittsburg Campus is located on 120 acres bordering Antioch, with an additional education center in Brentwood. For more information visit www.losmedanos.edu.
Police and emergency personnel at the Hotel Nexus Seattle following the shooting death of a 20-year-old man on Oct. 15, 2025. Photo: Seattle PD
20-year-old Isaiah Andrews shot, killed another 20-year-old man at hotel; hiding out in Antioch with a family member
UPDATE 1: Suspect mistakenly released from custody in Contra Costa County jail, on the loose, under investigation. UPDATE 2: Contra Costa Sheriff seeks suspect, issues statement
By Detective Brian Pritchard, Seattle Police Department
On October 18, 2025, California partner agencies arrested 20-year-old Isaiah Andrews and identified him as a wanted Seattle homicide suspect. After a vehicle pursuit involving the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, Antioch, CA PD, and Pittsburg, CA PD. Andrews was booked into Contra Costa County Jail on a temporary felony warrant for homicide.
Seattle Police Department Homicide detectives connected Andrews to an October 15 shooting in Northgate, he is suspected of killing a 20-year-old man.
He will be extradited to King County Jail and booked for Investigation of Murder.
UPDATE 1: However, according to a reader of the Antioch Herald, Andrews was mistakenly released from Contra Costa County jail last week and a manhunt is underway by multiple agencies.
Asked if that was correct, when did it happen and what agencies are involved, Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office spokesman Jimmy Lee simply responded, “The release you asked about is under investigation.” He was then asked again about the reported manhunt, the agencies involved and why the public wasn’t informed at the time Andrews was released. Lee responded he was working on a statement.
The same questions were posed to Seattle Police and Antioch Police Departments. Detective Eric Muñoz of the Seattle Police Department’s Media & Public Affairs responded, “This is an open and active homicide investigation. We will not be releasing any further information. Please reach out to the Contra Costa Sheriff’s office for more info.” APD Lt. Joe Njoroge directed the Herald to do the same.
According to the reader who chose to remain anonymous, Seattle Police were on their way to Martinez to pick up Andrews when they were informed that he’d been released.
UPDATE 2: Lee issued the following statement Monday afternoon, Oct. 27. –
“The Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the release of an inmate identified as 20-year-old Isaiah Jamon Andrews of Kent, Washington, from the Martinez Detention Facility.
He was released on October 22, 2025. At the time, Andrews had been held on local charges, a juvenile warrant out of Sacramento, and an out-of-state arrest warrant for homicide.
After Sheriff’s Office staff realized Andrews had been released, we launched a search of the immediate area and confirmed that Andrews was no longer in the area. The search for Andrews is ongoing by the U.S. Marshals Service. Local law enforcement agencies have also been notified.
According to a reader of the Herald who chose to remain anonymous, Seattle Police were on their way to Martinez to pick up Andrews when they were informed that he’d been released.
Anyone with any information on the whereabouts of Andrews is asked to call 9-1-1. The Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office can be reached at (925) 646-2441. For any tips, email: tips@so.cccounty.us or call (866) 846-3592 to leave an anonymous voice message.”
UPDATE 3: Asked about conflicting information regarding Andrews’ residency, Antioch Police Lt. Bill Whitaker said, “He is from and lives in Kent (Washington). He was here (in Antioch) hiding out with a family member.”
Original Post: October 15, 2025
Detectives Investigate Shooting in Northgate
Detectives are investigating a shooting that left a 20-year-old man deceased in Northgate Neighborhood.
Police arrived and found a man in the parking lot of a hotel, suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest. Officers provided aid until Seattle Fire Department arrived. Despite life-saving efforts the male succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased.
Homicide Unit detectives responded to the scene and are working to determine the circumstances that led up to the shooting.
If anyone has information about this incident, please call Seattle Police Department Violent Crimes Tip Line at (206) 233-5000.
Incident Number #2025-302193/ North Precinct/ N3
According to an Oct. 24, 2025, post on Facebook by news photographer and videographer Steve Hickey, “20-year-old Isaiah Andrews was taken into custody after a vehicle pursuit involving multiple law enforcement agencies…in California.
The Homicide-
4:15 p.m. on Oct. 15, officers responded to reports of a shooting in the parking lot of a hotel near Northgate Way and Meridian Avenue North. When police arrived, they found a 20-year-old man with a gunshot wound to the chest. He died at the scene.
The victim was known to law enforcement as a 216th Murder Block Hoover, gang member.” (See video)
According to localcrimenews.com, Andrews is Black and was arrested by Antioch Police for being a fugitive from justice and evasion with wanton disregard for safety.
(L-R) Monserrat Cabral has been promoted to the City of Antioch’s Director of Public Safety and Community Resources, Brad Helfenberger moved to the position of Director of Information Services, Shahad Wright was promoted to Director of Parks and Recreation and Kelly Zelenka of K Zelenka Consulting has been hired as the Executive Consultant to the City Manager. Photos: City of Antioch except far-right photo, source: LinkedIn.
New roles including strategic advisor intended to enhance city operations, community focus; staff claims “City’s executive staffing plan” complete but Assistant City Manager is vacant, City Attorney is interim – search underway; Helfenberger switches to Director of Info Services
By Jaden Baird, Public Information Officer, City of Antioch
The City of Antioch announces several executive appointments and leadership transitions across key departments, marking an important milestone in the City’s ongoing efforts to strengthen organizational capacity, operational efficiency and service to the community. Brad Helfenberger will move to the position of Director of Information Services from Assistant City Manager, which is currently vacant. Instead, an Executive Consultant has been hired to advise City Manager Bessie M. Scott.
“These appointments represent both stability and forward progress,” Scott said. “We’ve filled essential leadership roles with experienced professionals who bring strong vision, proven capability and a shared commitment to serving our community. Together, they reflect the City’s investment in sustainable leadership and operational excellence.”
Effective October 20, 2025, the following appointments and transitions took effect:
Monserrat Cabral – Director of Public Safety and Community Resources
Previously serving as Interim Director, Monserrat Cabral has been appointed as the permanent Director of Public Safety and Community Resources.
Cabral is a strategic and heart-centered public sector leader with more than two decades of experience advancing equity, safety, and opportunity across government, community, and nonprofit systems. As Acting Director, she has led initiatives that strengthen community well-being, expand access to housing and youth opportunity, and embed compassion into public policy.
Her leadership is defined by her ability to bridge institutional systems with lived experience, building trust, alignment, and lasting impact. Before joining the City of Antioch, Cabral served in leadership roles across education, philanthropy, and nonprofit sectors, designing programs that empowered young people, working families, and system-impacted communities.
She has advised national networks on organizational culture and equity in leadership development, directed regional collaboratives focused on restorative justice and reentry, and taught as an adjunct professor at Rutgers University, guiding graduate students in public policy and community engagement.
A skilled negotiator and policy strategist, Cabral champions collaboration between city leadership, frontline staff, and community-based organizations, ensuring that those most affected by city policies help shape them.
At her core, Cabral believes that consistency, kindness, and joy are the foundation of meaningful change. She is passionate about writing, creating, and spending time with community and purpose, grounded in the belief that even serious work can be filled with warmth, humor, and hope.
Brad Helfenberger – Director of Information Services
Currently serving as Assistant City Manager, Brad Helfenberger will transition to Director of Information Services as part of the City’s upcoming leadership succession plan in the department, his third position in the last two years.
Helfenberger was originally hired by the City of Antioch as the Parks and Recreation Director in February 2021. He then was twice appointed Acting Assistant City Manager before being hired for the permanent position earlier this year.
Helfenberger brings over 25 years of experience in municipal government and holds a Bachelor of Science in Recreation from San José State University. Prior to joining Antioch, he held leadership roles with the City of Emeryville, the Hayward Area Recreation & Park District, and the City of Milpitas.
His expertise in budget management, policy development, and interdepartmental collaboration has made a lasting impact in every community he has served. As Antioch’s Parks and Recreation Director, Helfenberger was instrumental in enhancing public spaces, expanding recreational programming, and fostering community engagement.
This new role will allow Helfenberger to apply those same organizational and leadership skills to strengthen the City’s information systems and modernize its internal infrastructure.
Helfenberger has expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to lead Information Services and continue contributing to the City’s long-term success.
“Brad’s ability to create structure, streamline operations, and build efficient systems will continue to benefit the City as we modernize technology and improve transparency,” Scott stated.
Shahad Wright – Director of Parks and Recreation
Promoted from Interim Director, Shahad Wright has been appointed Director of Parks and Recreation.
Born and raised in the Bay Area, Wright holds a Bachelor of Arts in Recreation with an emphasis in Non-Profit Management from San Francisco State University. He began his recreation career with the YMCA, leading local and national programs for more than 15 years and coordinating major events nationwide for NIKE, including NBA All-Star Weekends and USA Olympic programs.
Since joining the City of Antioch in 2022 as a Recreation Supervisor, Wright has advanced quickly through leadership roles, serving as Recreation Services Manager in 2023 and most recently as Acting Director. He oversees citywide recreation operations, including the Antioch Water Park, community centers, sports programs, facility maintenance, and special events, while serving as staff liaison for the Parks and Recreation Commission.
Committed to youth and community development, Wright and his family founded Giving the Wright Way, a nonprofit organization supporting youth success and higher education. In his free time, he enjoys traveling and spending time with his family.
This promotion recognizes Wright’s leadership in advancing recreation programming, expanding community access, and creating inclusive spaces that support the well-being of all Antioch residents.
Kelly Zelenka – Executive Consultant
The City has engaged Kelly Zelenka as an Executive Consultant to support ongoing operational and organizational development initiatives.
Zelenka brings more than 20 years of experience in the nonprofit, government, and philanthropic sectors, with a strong focus on human-centered leadership, culture-building, and strategic operations. Her work will assist the City in assessing systems, supporting leadership development, and enhancing collaboration across departments.
“Kelly’s extensive experience in organizational strategy and operational improvement will help strengthen how we work internally to serve the public more effectively,” said Scott. “Her insight and guidance are valuable as we continue building a high-performing, people-focused city organization.”
According to her LinkedIn profile, Zelenka since May 2022, Zelenka is the Principal of K Zelenka Consulting. She previously worked as the Senior Director, Housing and Services for Volunteers of America in Minnesota and Wisconsin, Assistant Director, Human Services for the Minneapolis Public Housing Authority and Deputy Department Director for the Seattle Public Housing Authority.
These appointments mark the completion of the City’s executive staffing plan and reflect Antioch’s ongoing investment in operational excellence, leadership continuity, and responsive public service. Together, the strengthened leadership team will continue building systems that support transparency, collaboration, and community trust.
Baird was asked how the appointments complete the City’s executive staffing plan when it leaves the Assistant City Manager’s position vacant and the current City Attorney is an interim position. He responded, “When we say the staffing plan is ‘complete,’ we mean that the key leadership roles outlined in the City Manager’s plan have been filled and that the structure is now in place to support the City Manager’s priorities. While the Assistant City Manager position isn’t being recruited right now, the focus has shifted to process improvement within departments, work that will be guided in large part by the consultant and supported by the City Manager’s office.”
According to Human Resources staff, earlier this year the Council hired a firm for a new city attorney to conduct a nationwide search which has been underway since May.
Public comment through Dec. 18 on Draft Plan Bay Area 2050+, EIR for housing, transportation, economic development and the environment
East Bay WebinarNov. 5
By Veronica Cummings, Principal Public Information Officer, Engagement & John Goodwin, Assistant Director of Communications, Metropolitan Transportation Commission
After more than two years of public discussion, technical analyses and refinement, the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) and the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) today released Draft Plan Bay Area 2050+ and the Plan Bay Area 2050+ Draft Environmental Impact Report for public review and comment.
Draft Plan Bay Area 2050+ charts a course for the future of the Bay Area over the next 25 years. Designed to guide growth and investment across the region’s nine counties and 101 cities, the latest plan aims to advance an integrated vision for a Bay Area that is affordable, connected, diverse, healthy and vibrant for all. The plan contains 35 strategies for public policies and investments that can be implemented to help the Bay Area build more homes, reduce commute times, and create vibrant downtowns and natural areas for everyone to enjoy. These strategies also aim to keep people safe from natural hazards, support a strong economy and provide stable housing.
Unique to this plan cycle is Transit 2050+, a parallel and first-of-its-kind planning effort conducted by MTC and ABAG in partnership with Bay Area transit agencies to re-envision the future of Bay Area public transit.
Plan Bay Area includes all nine Bay Area counties and 101 cities. Source: Plan Bay Area
MTC and ABAG have scheduled a series of webinars and public hearings for comment on Draft Plan Bay Area 2050+ and associated supplemental reports, as well as on the Draft Environmental Impact Report for Plan Bay Area 2050+. All interested people, agencies and other organizations are encouraged to attend a webinar or public hearing, where they can ask questions and offer comments on these documents. Full event details are listed below:
Webinar #2 — West Bay Wednesday, October 29, 2025 6-7:30 p.m. Zoom link: https://bit.ly/westbaywebinar Webinar ID: 831 4140 5598 Passcode: 096944 888-788-0099 US Toll Free
Webinar #3 — South Bay Thursday, October 30, 2025 6-7:30 p.m. Zoom link: https://bit.ly/southbaywebinar Webinar ID: 822 2561 7467 Passcode: 356845 888-788-0099 US Toll Free
Webinar #4 — East Bay Wednesday, November 5, 2025 6-7:30 p.m. Zoom link: https://bit.ly/eastbaywebinar Webinar ID: 869 8283 4999 Passcode: 682098 888-788-0099 US Toll Free
In addition to these webinars, MTC and ABAG will host three public hearings around the Bay Area to provide opportunities for all interested agencies, organizations and individuals to comment on the Draft Plan and Draft Environmental Impact Report. The full list of hearings is as follows:
Public Hearing #1 — MTC Planning Committee and ABAG Administrative Committee Friday, November 14, 2025, at 9:40 a.m. or upon the conclusion of the Bay Area Infrastructure Financing Authority Network and Operations Committee, whichever is later. Bay Area Metro Center -or- Zoom Boardroom, 1st Floor 375 Beale Street, San Francisco
Public Hearing #2 — Fremont Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at 6 p.m. Olive Hyde Art Center and Gallery -or- Zoom 123 Washington Boulevard, Fremont Zoom link: https://bit.ly/drafthearing2 Webinar ID: 875 7625 3306 Passcode: 178983 888 788 0099 US Toll Free
Public Hearing #3 — Novato Thursday, December 4, 2025, at 6 p.m. Best Western Plus Novato Oaks Inn -or- Zoom 215 Alameda del Prado, Novato Zoom link: https://bit.ly/drafthearing3 Webinar ID: 898 0347 9624
Passcode: 129009
888 788 0099 US Toll Free
Interested Bay Area residents, agencies and organizations also are encouraged to view and comment on the draft plan online at planbayarea.org/draftplan. Comments will be reviewed by officials from both ABAG and MTC as they consider the adoption of Final Plan Bay Area 2050+, slated for early 2026.
Written comments will be accepted via mail to MTC Public Information Office, Attn: Plan Bay Area -or- Draft EIR Comments, 375 Beale Street, Suite 800, San Francisco, CA, 94105; or via email (Draft Plan Bay Area 2050+ inbox: info@planbayarea.org; Draft EIR inbox: eircomments@bayareametro.gov). Comments by phone can made at (415) 778-2292.
The comment period for all documents will close Dec. 18, 2025, at 5 p.m.
Do you need an interpreter or any other assistance to participate? Please call (415) 778-6757. For TDD or hearing impaired, call 711, California Relay Service, or (800) 735-2929 (TTY), (800) 735-2922 (voice) and ask to be relayed to (415) 778-6700. We require at least three working days’ notice to accommodate requests.
¿Necesita un intérprete u otra asistencia para participar? Por favor llámenos con tres días de anticipación al (415) 778-6757. Para telecomunicaciones para personas sordas y discapacitadas, favor de llamar al 711, el Servicio de Retransmisión de California (CRS) para TTY/VCO/HCO a Voz o para Voz a TTY/VCO/HCO al (800) 855-3000 y pedir que lo retrasmitan al (415) 778-6700.
ABAG is the council of governments and the regional planning agency for the 101 cities and towns, and nine counties of the Bay Area. MTC is the transportation planning, financing and coordinating agency for the nine-county San Francisco Bay Area.
Over $107 million for Contra Costa projects including $46.9 million on Hwy 4 from Hillcrest Avenue in Antioch to Byron Highway near Brentwood
By Edward Barrera, Division Chief, Caltrans Public Affairs
In August, the California Transportation Commission (CTC) approved $3 billion in allocations to enhance safety and mobility across the state highway system and expand multimodal travel, including bike lanes and pedestrian pathways. Guided by Governor Gavin Newsom’s Build More, Faster – For All infrastructure agenda, these improvements will make California communities safer, cleaner and increase access to active transportation options.
Of the $3 billion allocated, $663 million derives from Senate Bill (SB) 1, the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017 and approximately $2 billion from the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021 (IIJA). The funds will serve as a catalyst to increase the capacity of the state’s transportation system, rehabilitate aging roadways and improve travel times, while balancing community impacts and promoting environmental benefits.
The “…investments reflect California’s long-term commitment to safer roads, smarter traffic management and expanded transportation choices that get people where they need to go,” said Caltrans Director Dina El-Tawansy.
“The funds allocated…reflect the Commission’s commitment to investing taxpayer dollars strategically. These investments will improve the safety and reliability of the state’s transportation network and support a thriving economy by improving the movement of freight and reducing out-of-pocket expenses for all California,” said Darnell Grisby, Chair of the California Transportation Commission.
Projects in Contra Costa County approved by the Commission include:
$46,900,000 on SR-4 in and near Antioch and Brentwood, from Hillcrest Avenue to Byron Highway, to rehabilitate pavement and drainage systems, upgrade facilities to ADA standards, install Accessible Pedestrian Signals (APS), high-visibility crosswalks, bike loop detectors, and construct Class II bike lanes. This will extend pavement service life and improve ride quality.
$42,374,000 on I-680 in San Ramon and Danville, from Alcosta Boulevard to 0.1 mile north of Diablo Road, to rehabilitate pavement, upgrade guardrail, and upgrade facilities to ADA standards. This will extend pavement service life and improve ride quality.
$14,584,000 on SR-24 in Orinda, at the Caldecott Tunnel, to rehabilitate and upgrade the ventilation system in Bores 1, 2, and 3. This will ensure structural integrity and prolong tunnel service life.
$1,301,000 on SR-4 in Concord, 0.5 mile east of Port Chicago Highway, to reconstruct a failed slope embankment and repair a displaced down drain due to heavy rainfall in February and March 2025. Work includes installing Rock Slope Protection (RSP), and repairing the down drain, guardrail, and dike. This will enhance driver and pedestrian safety.
• $1,275,000 on SR-4 near Pittsburg, 0.3 mile west of Bailey Road, to reconstruct a slope embankment and repair a displaced down drain due to heavy rainfall in February and March 2025. Work includes installing Rock Slope Protection (RSP). This will improve roadway safety.
$999,000 on SR-24 in Lafayette, from 0.7 to 1.0 mile east of Acalanes Road, to rehabilitate pavement due to ponding and water seepage caused by heavy rainfall in February and March 2025, which led to cracking and settlement. This will extend pavement life and improve safety.
IIJA is a once-in-a-generation investment in our nation’s infrastructure to improve the sustainability and resiliency of our country’s energy, water, broadband and transportation systems. The total funding for California is nearly $54 billion. This includes investments to upgrade the state’s roads, bridges, rail, public transit, airports, ports, waterways and the electric vehicle charging network.
SB 1 has invested approximately $5 billion annually toward transportation projects since its adoption. It provides funding split between the state and local agencies. Road projects progress through construction phases more quickly, based on the availability of funds, including those partially funded by SB 1.
Visit build.ca.gov to learn more about transformative infrastructure projects happening in communities throughout the state.
