The estimated project cost is $941,396. This project is funded by 68.2% East Bay Regional Park District Measure WW funds, 23.333% Park Dedication funds that have accumulated in the CSA R-9 census tract; and 8.5% Contra Costa County Library Department funds.
On April 5, 2012, Public Works staff reported to the Transportation, Water and Infrastructure Committee (TWIC) on the County Service Area Measure WW funds (Measure WW is a voter-approved EBRPD Measure passed in 2008). TWIC asked staff to develop a draft expenditure plan for each of the specific CSAs that are within the purview of the County Board of Supervisors. District I staff and community stakeholders in the El Sobrante area have recommended allocation of the Measure WW funds to the El Sobrante Mini Park Project. On October 3, 2013, County staff reported back to TWIC with a recommendation for this project in CSA R-9 (El Sobrante). Staff received authorization from TWIC to submit this proposal to the Board of Supervisors to approve submitting a project application to the EBRPD by March 31, 2014. Measure WW funds available to El Sobrante (CSA R-9) are $641,740. Once approval by the EBRPD is received, County staff will begin the implementation of the project, including the final design documents.
The purpose of the work is to renovate existing landscape, parking lot and recreational facilities on the County land adjacent to the El Sobrante Library. The existing recreational facilities include gardens (reading, demonstration, and memorial), landscaped walkways along Appian Way and Garden Road, and landscaped pathways leading to a riparian interpretive trail along San Pablo Creek. The work will renovate the existing landscaping along all the above-mentioned landscaped walkways and improve landscaping around the reading garden. An existing open space located at the rear of the library will be converted to a shaded plaza with a raised podium for events. New tables, chairs, and landscaping will be placed throughout the plaza. An existing path, tile benches, and flagpole located at the intersection of Garden Road and Appian Way will also be renovated with new native landscaping, rain garden, interpretive panel, and new signage. Three trees located in the parking lot may be removed. Prior to tree removal, nesting bird surveys will be conducted. In order to minimize damage to any nearby trees, any roots exposed during excavation will be cut cleanly and tree branches will be trimmed. Real Property transactions may be necessary in support of this project. Upkeep of the improvements will be part of the routine maintenance of County facilities.
Delay in approving the project will result in a delay of design and construction and may jeopardize funding.