Memory of local cyclist Joe Shami inspired community to improve safety for bicyclists and motorists      

Paid for with public and private funds

By Annette Majerowicz, Communications Consultant, Full Court Press Communications for the California State Parks Foundation

Mount Diablo, CA – California State Parks Foundation, on Friday, celebrated the completion of 22 new bike turnouts at Mount Diablo State Park. There are now a total of 67 bike turnouts in the park. Bike turnouts allow bicyclists, who move at slower speeds as they pedal uphill, to pull out of the main traffic lane into their own lane so that vehicles can pass safely. 

The new turnouts were inspired by the memory of Joe Shami who was a passionate advocate for increasing safety for bicyclists and cars at Mount Diablo State Park. Known by locals as “The Legend of Mount Diablo,” Joe’s passion for Mount Diablo State Park and cycling was exemplified by over a decade of weekly trips up the mountain well into his 80s. 

“Tragically, Joe was struck and killed by a vehicle while riding his bicycle in Lafayette,” said Randy Widera, Director of Programs of the California State Parks Foundation. “Although he is not with us today, Joe left a special gift in his will to California State Parks Foundation. This gift helped make these additional bike turnouts on Mount Diablo possible. We know Joe would be pleased that his generous gift is making Mount Diablo safer for bicyclists to enjoy.” 

California State Parks, California State Parks Foundation, and Mount Diablo Cyclists partnered to build the new bike turnouts. A total of $927,000 was raised for the project.

For many years, cycling at Mount Diablo State Park has been a popular — but dangerous — activity. From 2010 to 2014, there were an average of 23 car and bike collisions per year. According to California State Park officials, this also frequently resulted in road rage showdowns between drivers and riders. After the first turnouts were created, collisions dropped to three accidents in two years, and road rage significantly diminished.  

In an incredible show of dedication to this work, California State Parks allocated the same amount as Joe’s gift from the department’s annual roads allocation funding to this project. Taking this initial funding as a challenge, a passionate group of volunteers comprised of Alan Kalin, Mark Dedon, and Ted Trambley spent four months doing outreach in the park and at Peet’s Coffee in Danville with locals, cyclists, and visitors to raise additional funds.

“The new bike turnouts on Mount Diablo are a testament to Joe Shami’s inspirational life,” said Mark Dedon, Mt. Diablo Cyclists leadership team member. “The community understands the importance of the new turnouts for the safety of both bicyclists and motorists. People we spoke with were happy to contribute to make these turnouts a reality.”

Through their efforts and with the support of California State Parks Foundation, they inspired over 300 individuals, organizations, and companies to donate the additional funding needed to make the bike turnouts possible. (See brief bike turnout video)

California State Parks Foundation, an independent, member-supported nonprofit with over 50 years of history, is dedicated to protecting and preserving the California state park system for the benefit of all. We work in parks and in Sacramento with partners, park staff, and policymakers to address the challenges parks face. To make real and lasting change we are working to build a movement of people who enjoy and advocate for their parks now, and for future generations. Learn more at www.calparks.org, or find California State Parks Foundation on Facebook, or Instagram and Twitter (@calparks).

About Mount Diablo State Park

Located in the San Francisco Bay Area to the east of Walnut Creek, people have been drawn for generations to Mount Diablo for its spectacular views from the summit which extend over 100 miles in all directions on a clear day. Visitors have been attracted by the complex geology that has created amazing rock formations such as the “wind caves” at Rock City, and by the mountain’s variety of habitats which are home to over 600 species of plants and an amazing array of wildlife such as butterflies, bats and birds of prey, tarantulas, bobcats, lizards, snakes and deer.

In 2021 Mount Diablo celebrated its 100th year as a State Park. Though 100 years is a long history as a park, the importance of Mount Diablo was recognized long before that. For thousands of years Native Americans were the caretakers of this land. Many groups considered and treated the mountain as a sacred place and continue to do so today.

Since becoming a park in 1921, Mount Diablo has been protected as a natural area, and over the past 100 years the park has grown from only a few hundred acres to over 20,000 acres. Today it is a destination for those who would like to view wildlife and wildflowers, experience beautiful views, hike, camp, picnic, run, cycle, climb, ride horses, or gaze at the stars.

Swim facilities, shoreline regional parks remain open

By Jen Vaya, Public Information Specialist, East Bay Regional Park District

Parks previously closed by the East Bay Regional Park District will remain closed through Saturday and will reopen Sunday morning. Some hill and inland East Bay Regional Parks were closed on Tuesday, July 2, due to extreme fire conditions and excessive heat.

Park status is subject to change depending on conditions. Check www.ebparks.org before heading to a park.

The National Weather Service-Bay Area has extended its Red Flag through Saturday, July 6, with Level 2 restrictions in effect DISTRICT WIDE. A Red Flag Warning means that dry and windy conditions are expected, leading to extreme fire weather risks.

Level 2 Extreme Fire Danger Restrictions Include:

• No smoking. Smoking is prohibited in all regional parks, trails, and shorelines. (Prohibited year-round)
• NO fireworks. Fireworks are not permitted in any Regional Parks. (Prohibited year-round)
• No open fires or barbecues of any type. Only gas-fueled stoves are allowed.
• Drive only on designated roadways – no off-road driving. Do not drive or park on dry grass, as heat from a vehicle’s undercarriage can start a fire.
• Secure all tow chains – dragging tow chains can spark fires.

Parks Closed and Reopening Sunday:

Park Closed and Reopening Sunday:

•   Anthony Chabot •   Bishop Ranch •   Black Diamond Mines •   Briones •   Brushy Peak •   Carquinez/Crockett Hills •   Claremont Canyon •   Contra Loma •   Deer Valley

•   Dry Creek •   Diablo Foothills (trails closed) •   Dublin Hills •   Five Canyons •   Garin •   Huckleberry •   Las Trampas

•   Leona Canyon •   Mission Peak •   Morgan Territory •   Ohlone •   Pleasanton Ridge •   Round Valley •   Sibley •   Sobrante Ridge

•   Sunol •   Sycamore Valley •   Tilden (trails closed) •   Vargas Plateau •   Vasco Caves •   Vasco Hills •   Waterbird •   Wildcat Canyon

Anthony Chabot Campground will remain closed through Sunday, July 7. Please check www.ebparks.org/alerts-closures for the most updated information.

Swim facilities and Shoreline Regional Parks will remain open. Follow these safety tips:

• Avoid the hottest part of the day. If you do visit, go in the morning or early evening when it is cooler.
• Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
• Wear sunscreen and lightweight, light-colored clothing.
• Avoid drinking alcohol and caffeine, which can worsen the heat’s effects on your body.
• Don’t forget your pets! Carry water for them.

The East Bay Regional Park District is the largest regional park system in the nation, comprising 73 parks, 55 miles of shoreline, and over 1,330 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and environmental education. The Park District receives an estimated 30 million visits annually throughout Alameda and Contra Costa counties in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Reopening Sunday, July 7 (subject to change).

By East Bay Regional Park District

Due to high temperatures and extreme fire danger, Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve in Antioch will be closed Saturday, July 6. Dry and windy conditions are expected, which can lead to extreme fire weather risks.

When the park is open again, please still take precautions when hiking in the heat. Here are some safety tips:

• Avoid the hottest part of the day. If you do visit, go in the morning or early evening when it is cooler.

• Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.

• Wear sunscreen and lightweight, light-colored clothing.

• Avoid drinking alcohol and caffeine, which can worsen the heat’s effects on your body.

• Don’t forget your pets! Carry water for them.

• No smoking. Smoking is prohibited in all regional trails, parks, and shorelines.

• No open fires or barbecues of any type. Gas-fueled stoves are permitted.

• Stay on designated roads – no off-road driving. Heat from a vehicle’s undercarriage can start a fire.

• Secure all tow chains – dragging tow chains can spark fires.

To learn more about East Bay Regional Park closures visit www.ebparks.org/alerts-closures.

Stay safe, everyone!

Swim facilities, shoreline regional parks remain open

Some hills and inland East Bay Regional Parks closed due to extreme fire conditions and excessive heat

Weather Service extends Red Flag , Excessive Heat Warnings through Saturday, July 6

By Dave Mason, Public Information Supervisor, Public Affairs, East Bay Regional Park District

Parks closed Tuesday by the East Bay Regional Park District will remain closed during this week’s increased temperatures and extreme fire danger (subject to change). The National Weather Service extended a Red Flag Warning and Excessive Heat Warning through Saturday, July 6. The Park District will reassess conditions and provide additional information Friday evening. 

A Red Flag Warning means that dry and windy conditions are expected, leading to extreme fire weather risks. The Park District closed the following parks/areas below on July 2.

Park Closures:

•   Anthony Chabot •   Bishop Ranch •   Black Diamond Mines •   Briones •   Brushy Peak •   Carquinez/Crockett Hills •   Claremont Canyon

•   Contra Loma •   Deer Valley •   Dry Creek •   Diablo Foothills (trails closed) •   Dublin Hills •   Five Canyons •   Garin •   Huckleberry

•   Las Trampas •   Leona Canyon •   Mission Peak •   Morgan Territory •   Ohlone •   Pleasanton Ridge •   Round Valley •   Sibley •   Sobrante Ridge

•   Sunol •   Sycamore Valley •   Tilden (trails closed) •   Vargas Plateau •   Vasco Caves •   Vasco Hills •   Waterbird •   Wildcat Canyon

Also, Anthony Chabot Campground will be closed through the weekend. Please check www.ebparks.org/alerts-closures for the most updated information.

Swim facilities and Shoreline Regional Parks will remain open. Follow these safety rules and tips:

• Avoid the hottest part of the day. If you do visit, go in the morning or early evening when it is cooler.
• Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
• Wear sunscreen and lightweight, light-colored clothing.
• Avoid drinking alcohol and caffeine, which can worsen the heat’s effects on your body.
• Don’t forget your pets! Carry water for them.
• No smoking. Smoking is prohibited in all regional trails, parks, and shorelines.
• No open fires or barbecues of any type. Gas-fueled stoves are permitted.
• Stay on designated roads – no off-road driving. Heat from a vehicle’s undercarriage can start a fire.
• Secure all tow chains – dragging tow chains can spark fires.

The East Bay Regional Park District is the largest regional park system in the nation, comprising 73 parks, 55 miles of shoreline, and over 1,330 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and environmental education. The Park District receives an estimated 30 million visits annually throughout Alameda and Contra Costa counties in the San Francisco Bay Area.

No fireworks in the parks, feedback needed on Briones Pilot Project, campfire, state bat-related activities, save the date for National Night out

For information regarding recent park closures due to increased wildfire risk, visit www.ebparks.org/about-us/whats-new/news/swim-facilities-and-shoreline-regional-parks-remain-open-through-heat-event. 

By Dave Mason, Public Information Supervisor, Public Affairs, East Bay Regional Park District

Fire Safety Advisory – Fireworks are not allowed in East Bay Regional Parks. July is a special month full of sunny days and warm summer nights. It’s also a time to take extra precautions due to the increased risk of wildfires in Regional Parks and neighboring communities. With July 4th celebrations coming up this week, remember that fireworks are not allowed in Regional Parks or shorelines.

Wildfire safety remains one of the East Bay Regional Park District’s top priorities. Be fire smart and aware of fire danger levels, red flag warnings, and fire safety. The Park District urges all visitors to enjoy their Regional Parks safely and responsibly. Be prepared for the upcoming wildfire season – visit www.ebparks.org and search for “Fire Safety Tips.”

Lakeside Laps on July 20 at Lake Chabot Regional Park. Lakeside Laps is a trail running and walking event hosted by the Regional Parks Foundation in partnership with Brazen Racing Sports & Community. In celebration of the East Bay Regional Park District’s 90th Anniversary, Lakeside Laps proceeds will benefit the Regional Parks Foundation and its mission to connect youth with nature and expand access to parks.

Register today for the family-friendly Trout Trot 5K, 10K, or half marathon – all fitness levels are welcome! The Finish Line Festival will feature snacks, vendors, photo walls, awards, and more. Food and beverages provided by Equator Coffee, Harmless Harvest, and Drake’s Brewing Company. For registration info, start times, and general event information, visit www.brazenracing.com/lakesidelaps. 

Feedback Needed on the Briones Pilot Project. The Briones Pilot Project was launched in April 2023 in a portion of Briones Regional Park to test new ways to safely share trails, improve the trail experience, and protect habitat, wildlife, and watersheds. At the recent Briones Pilot Project Community check-in meeting, about 75 community members – hikers, cyclists, and equestrians – joined the East Bay Regional Park District staff to discuss the first year of the pilot project and provide their feedback on what has improved and where challenges remain. Feedback is needed! Visit the project webpage to fill out an online survey or drop a comment on the interactive map at www.ebparks.org/BPP. 

Save the Date: National Night Out on August 6 at Lake Chabot. An exciting evening of community bonding and fun at Lake Chabot awaits! The East Bay Regional Park District is hosting its second annual National Night Out on August 6 from 4-7 p.m. at Lake Chabot Regional Park, where parkgoers are invited to come together to celebrate and strengthen community ties. Meet the Park District’s public safety officers, firefighters, lifeguards, and park rangers who are instrumental in keeping the community safe. Visit with Park District naturalists at the Mobile Visitor Center and learn about the nature exhibits on display. Stroll around Lake Chabot and enjoy the lake’s serene beauty. All are welcome to this FREE event. For more information, visit www.ebparks.org/nno.

Campfire gatherings first became popular in the United States around the turn of the last century, with growth in the National Park system. At the time, there was an incentive to get more children out of urban cities and into the nature of these new National Parks, and the result was the emergence of summer camps and campfire programs. By the 1920s, more than 1,000 summer camps were offering outdoor activities such as canoeing, archery, hiking, arts and crafts, and fire-making. These camps also developed new traditions like campfires, s’mores, and sing-a-longs. Today, this tradition continues throughout the East Bay Regional Park District.

Experience unforgettable evenings under the stars with captivating campfire programs at Del Valle Regional Park, Big Break Regional Shoreline, Dumbarton Quarry Campground on the Bay, and Anthony Chabot Campground. These family-friendly events offer nature education, storytelling, and stargazing, while fostering a deep appreciation for the outdoors. Engage in hands-on activities, learn about local wildlife, and connect with the community around the warmth of the fire with naturalist-led campfire programs. Go to www.ebparks.org/calendar and search for “campfire.” Campfire programs are subject to change due to Park District fire restrictions and National Weather Services-Bay Area Fire Advisories and Red Flag Warnings.

Did you know that California has a state bat? The pallid bat was designated as the California state bat in October 2023. Its golden fur, diverse range of habitats, and positive effects on the environment fit in well with the rest of the Golden State’s symbols. These golden-haired pallid bats, as well as other bat species, are found at parks throughout East Bay Regional Park District. Join Park District naturalists for bat-related activities all summer long! Go to www.ebparks.org/calendar and search for “bats.” Learn more about the bats of the East Bay at www.ebparks.org/programs/digital-learning/naturalist-videos/plants-animals/bats.

The East Bay Regional Park District is the largest regional park system in the nation, comprising 73 parks, 55 miles of shoreline, and over 1,330 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and environmental education. The Park District receives an estimated 30 million visits annually throughout Alameda and Contra Costa counties in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Hills and inland East Bay Regional Parks closed due to extreme fire conditions, excessive heat

Contra Loma Park in Antioch closed, Ambrose Aquatic Center in Pittsburg open

By Dave Mason Public Information Supervisor, Public Affairs East Bay Regional Park District

Many East Bay Regional Parks will remain open for visitors during this week’s increased temperatures. Park guests are encouraged to take special precautions to prepare for the heat while enjoying the open shoreline parks and swimming facilities.

The National Weather Service-Bay Area issued a Red Flag Warning and Excessive Heat Warning for inland East Bay areas and an Excessive Heat Watch for coastal and bayside areas beginning Monday, July 1, at 11 p.m. The Red Flag Warning means that dry and windy conditions are expected, leading to extreme fire weather risks.

Due to possible high fire risk, the Park District will be closing the parks/areas below beginning Tuesday, July 2, through Friday morning (subject to change).

Park Closures:

•   Wildcat Canyon •   Tilden (trails only) •   Huckleberry •   Sibley •   Leona Canyon •   Claremont Canyon •   Anthony Chabot •   Sobrante Ridge

•   Sunol •   Ohlone •   Mission Peak •   Vargas Plateau •   Five Canyons •   Garin/Dry Creek •   Pleasanton Ridge •   Dublin Hills

•   Sycamore Valley •   Bishop Ranch •   Las Trampas •   Briones •   Carquinez/Crockett Hills •   Black Diamond Mines •   Contra Loma

•   Deer Valley •   Round Valley •   Morgan Territory •   Brushy Peak •   Vasco Hills •   Vasco Caves •   Waterbird

Swim facilities and Shoreline Regional Parks will remain open. Follow these safety rules and tips:

•   Avoid the hottest part of the day. If you do visit, go in the morning or early evening when it is cooler.

•   Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.

•   Wear sunscreen and lightweight, light-colored clothing.

•   Avoid drinking alcohol and caffeine, which can worsen the heat’s effects on your body.

•   Don’t forget your pets! Carry water for them.

•   Swim only in designated areas.

•   No smoking. Smoking is prohibited in all regional trails, parks, and shorelines.

•   No open fires or barbecues of any type. Gas-fueled stoves are permitted.

•   Stay on designated roads – no off-road driving. Heat from a vehicle’s undercarriage can start a fire.

•   Secure all tow chains – dragging tow chains can spark fires.

Contra Loma Park & Swimming Lagoon in Antioch Closed, Ambrose Aquatic Center in Pittsburg Open

The Contra Loma Swim Lagoon is closed for the 2024 swim season and has been closed for the past few years due to ongoing renovations.

However, the Park District has partnered with the City of Pittsburg and the Ambrose Parks and Recreation District to provide alternative swim access and programs at Ambrose Aquatic Center in Pittsburg. The District’s support allows the Aquatic Center to be opened seven days a week during the 2024 swim season. Visit www.ambroserec.org/ambrose-aquatic-center for more information.

See updated list of park closures.

The East Bay Regional Park District is the largest regional park system in the nation, comprising 73 parks, 55 miles of shoreline, and over 1,330 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and environmental education. The Park District receives an estimated 30 million visits annually throughout Alameda and Contra Costa counties in the San Francisco Bay Area.

As visitation to East Bay Regional Parks increases in warmer months, encounters with coyotes become more common. Coyotes are native to California and are found in various wildland habitats, as well as in rural and urban areas. They hold cultural and ecological importance throughout the state.

Coyote parents are active and protective of den sites from spring through fall, when new pups are born. It is a normal reaction for them to run away when spotted, although some have become used to human presence and will continue their activities while being watched. Visitors are encouraged to keep coyote safety precautions in mind when visiting Regional Parks throughout the year.

Coyote Safety Tips

Avoid hiking alone so you have help in case of emergency.

Keep children and pets nearby; keep your dog(s) on a leash.

Be aware of your surroundings as you walk, jog, or ride.

Stay on trails.

Never attempt to feed a coyote.

What To Do If You See a Coyote

Keep an eye on the coyote and observe from afar. Do not approach or engage with the coyote; walk away calmly and leave the area quickly. Do not run. If you have small children, keep them close by. If you have a small dog, keep them on a leash.

What To Do If Approached By A Coyote

Rarely, a coyote may approach you. If a coyote moves within 50 feet and does not go away on its own, encourage the coyote to move away to help it retain a natural fear of humans.

Be as big and loud as possible; shout in a deep, loud, and aggressive voice.

Wave your arms.

Keep dogs and children nearby.

Maintain eye contact, which can make coyotes uncomfortable and timid.

If the coyote continues to approach, do not run or turn your back on the coyote but continue to exaggerate the above gestures while backing away slowly.

Help protect all wildlife and their environment. Never feed, approach, or pet wild animals. For emergencies, contact 911 or the East Bay Regional Park District Public Safety line (510) 881-1833, 24 hours a day.

For more information, visit www.ebparks.org/safety.

The East Bay Regional Park District is the largest regional park system in the nation, comprising 73 parks, 55 miles of shoreline, and over 1,330 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and environmental education. The Park District receives an estimated 30 million visits annually throughout Alameda and Contra Costa counties in the San Francisco Bay Area.

By Clint Elsholz, Superintendent, Diablo Range District, CA State Parks

California State Parks, in partnership with the California State Parks Foundation, Mount Diablo Cyclists, and community donors, began construction on June 3, on 22 new bike turnouts at Mount Diablo State Park (SP). Once completed, these new turnouts will bring the total turnouts in the park to 67. Turnouts allow bicyclists, who move at slower speeds as they pedal uphill, to pull out of the main traffic lane into their own lane so that vehicles can pass safely.

“State Parks is very excited to implement these critical safety measures with our partners,” said Diablo Range District Superintendent Clint Elsholz. “Each turnout can provide our visitors with a safer and more enjoyable park experience.”

Project construction is expected to be completed by fall 2024. Here is what the public can expect during construction:

• The three park roads receiving new turnouts (South Gate Road, Summit Road and North Gate Road) will be closed on weekdays, from 8 a.m. on Monday through 2 p.m. on Friday. The park will be fully open on the weekends during the project.
• This work will be done in three phases, with the first phase beginning on June 3, on South Gate Road. Southgate Road will remain closed on weekdays for approximately five weeks until the project moves to Summit Road and then to North Gate Road.
• Vehicles, bicyclists, equestrians, and hikers will be prohibited on the closed roads until the project is completed.
• Camping will only be allowed on Friday and Saturday nights in campgrounds along closed roads.
• All trails and fire roads will remain open throughout the project.

At the completion of this important road safety project, California State Parks and its partners will plan a celebration event to commemorate these safety improvements and recognize contributors to the project. Road closures updates and celebration event information will be provided at parks.ca.gov/MountDiablo.

Public safety at this popular destination remains a priority for State Parks. Over the past few years, several safety enhancements have been implemented, such as double yellow line striping on the roads, designating passing areas, repaving portions of the road, improving safety signage, and installing designated bike turnouts. To date, State Parks has installed 45 bike turnouts at Mount Diablo SP. Along South Gate Road, there are a total of 17 turnouts, 16 along North Gate Road, and 12 along Summit Road.

Visitors to Mount Diablo SP are encouraged to share the road. Here are some tips to keep your visit safe and enjoyable: 

All Users 

• Check the weather, bring water, and wear layers.
• Don’t forget sunscreen.
• Obey park rules.
• Park in designated areas.
• Tell someone where you are going and when you plan on returning.
• Help us keep animals wild by viewing them from a safe distance. Do not touch or feed them.

Drivers and Cyclists

• Observe posted speed limits.
• Stay in your lane on blind curves and do not cut corners.
• Do not pass on double yellow lines and until you have a clear view of oncoming traffic, and it is safe to do so.
• Wearing headphones that cover both ears is illegal. Wear only one headphone if you must. 

Hikers

• Use the “buddy system” – hike with a friend or family member.
• Drink and carry plenty of water (a minimum of 1 quart every 2 hours).
• Wear sturdy, comfortable, closed-toe shoes to help prevent injury.
• Stay within designated trails. Do not walk off-trail or enter closed areas.

Equestrian Riders

• Check the weather, bring water, and know where to find water. Bring snacks for you and your horse.
• Know your level. Trails can be beginner, intermediate, and advanced.
• Groom and condition your horse before leaving the barn.
• Bring your own first aid kit and cell phone. Attach it to your body, not your horse or saddle.
• Ride with a buddy.
• Wear a helmet and protective clothing.
• Carry a compass and a trail map.
• Although the rule is that cyclists and hikers yield to horses, be prepared for that not to happen.
• If your horse kicks, tie something red in its tail.
• Make sure to leave enough distance between horses. You should be able to see the hooves of the horse in front of you. 

For detailed information on Mount Diablo State Park, please visit parks.ca.gov/MountDiablo.

California State Parks provide for the health, inspiration and education of the people of California by helping to preserve the state’s extraordinary biological diversity, protecting its most valued natural and cultural resources, and creating opportunities for high quality outdoor recreation.