1 TRANSPAC Committee Meeting Summary Minutes
MEETING DATE: November 14, 2024
MEMBERS PRESENT: Sue Noack (Chair), Pleasant Hill; Carlyn Obringer (Vice Chair) Concord; Loella Haskew, Walnut Creek;
Peter Cloven, Clayton; Ken Carlson, Contra Costa
County; Mark Ross, Martinez
PLANNING COMMISSIONERS PRESENT:
STAFF PRESENT: Josh Roden, Brookfield Properties; 'ƵLJũĞƌŬĞ͕ථŝƚLJ of Concord; Michael Stangl, East Bay Regional Park
District; Matt Todd, TRANSPAC; Tiffany Gephart,
TRANSPAC
MINUTES PREPARED BY: Tiffany Gephart
1. CONVENE REGULAR MEETING / PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE / SELF-INTRODUCTIONS Chair Noack called the meeting to order at 9:00 A.M.
2. PUBLIC COMMENT
There were no comments from the public.
3. CONSENT AGENDA
a. Approval of Minutes:
x Minutes of the September 12, 2024, TRANSPAC Board Meeting. b. CCTA Executive Director’s Report Regarding CCTA Actions/Discussion Items. c. Items Approved by The CCTA For Circulation to the Regional Transportation Planning Committees and Related Items of Interest.
d. RTPC meeting summary letters.
e. CCTA Meeting Updates and Countywide Information Links. f. Correspondence and Communication.
g. Transportation Fund for Clean Air (TFCA) Fund – Fiscal Year 2024/2025 Call for Projects (Amended). Approve the amended recommendation, which allocates $249,384 in available subregional TFCA funding, in addition to $37,616 in Measure J Line 21a funding, for the Walnut Creek Bikeway Project and the 511 Contra Costa "Active 4 Me" Program and community engagement initiatives for the FY 2024-2025 TFCA cycle.
2 h. TRANSPAC TAC Appointments to CCTA Committees. Approve the appointment of Aaron Elias (Concord) as the alternate representative to the CBPAC for the term ending December 31, 2025, and as the alternate representative to the TCC for the term ending March 31, 2025. i. TRANSPAC Quarterly Financial Reports. Accept the quarterly financial report for the period ended September 30, 2024.
j. 2025 TRANSPAC Meeting Schedule. Approve the TRANSPAC Meeting Schedule for 2025.
On a motion by Commissioner Haskew seconded by Commissioner Carlson to approve the consent agenda by unanimous vote of the members present (Obringer, Cloven, Haskew, Noack, Carlson, Ross).
End Consent Agenda
4. Request For Appropriation of Measure J Funds for Iron Horse Trail Rehabilitation.
Tiffany Gephart provided an overview of the Measure J Line 13, program and introduced Michael Stangl from the East Bay Regional Parks District. A copy of the presentation is included with the meeting materials available at transpac.us.
Mr. Stangl provided details on completed projects funded by Measure J within the TRANSPAC region, which included improvements to the Contra Costa Canal Trail and the Iron Horse Trail, among others, between 2013 and 2019. He then outlined the proposed 2025 TRANSPAC project, which seeks up to $500,000 for the rehabilitation of two sections of the Iron Horse Trail, covering approximately 1.5 miles. These sections include areas between Concord Avenue and Diamond Boulevard, as well as between Walden and Ignacio Valley. Mr. Stangl noted that while initial estimates were around $800,000 for both sections, costs are expected to exceed $1 million, with Measure J funds serving as matching contributions.
Mr. Stangl emphasized the importance of rehabilitating these heavily used trails, which serve commuters and recreational users alike. He outlined the project details, including asphalt and concrete replacement, noise and dust mitigation measures, and coordination with local jurisdictions. The project is scheduled for the summer of 2025 to minimize disruption for school commuters. Mr. Stangl also described efforts to enhance communication with the public, such as using electronic message boards to notify trail users about upcoming work.
Commissioner Carlson highlighted the timing of the project in relation to the Schroeder Bridge over Treat Boulevard, which requires urgent repairs due to bearing pad failures. He noted that $1.2 million in funding had been secured for the bridge project, which aligns with the proposed trail rehabilitation schedule. He emphasized the importance of maintaining these vital connections within the regional transportation network.
3 Mr. Stangl acknowledged Commissioner Carlson’s input and reiterated his commitment to coordination, emphasizing the value of collaborative planning with other agencies and projects.
He noted that while trail closures can initially prompt public criticism, the long-term benefits of rehabilitation ultimately garner appreciation. He stressed the importance of effective communication and planning to ensure the success of these initiatives.
Commissioner Carlson emphasized the urgency of addressing infrastructure needs, expressing concern about potential costs and consequences of delaying necessary repairs. He noted that prolonging action could lead to significantly higher expenses and even force closures or demolitions, scenarios that must be avoided.
Mr. Stangl concurred, sharing his experience managing paving for the district over the past five years. He highlighted the importance of proactive investment in maintenance and infrastructure, noting that previous studies recommended doubling the budget to meet the district’s needs. Mr.
Stangl underscored the rising costs of repairs and aging infrastructure, emphasizing the need to act swiftly and efficiently.
Commissioner Obringer expressed gratitude for the improvements made in North Concord, noting that the community had long felt underinvested in by both the park district and the city.
She acknowledged the positive impact of these efforts and expressed enthusiasm for the proposed repairs in her City Council district. She inquired about the bidding process for the project and whether any challenges were anticipated in meeting the proposed timeline and budget.
Mr. Stangl responded by describing the district’s job order contracting (JOC) system, which has enhanced the organization’s flexibility and efficiency. He explained that new bids would be issued within the next couple of months under a two-year span, ensuring the process could accommodate the upcoming trail work. However, he acknowledged the variability in contractor performance as a recurring challenge. Mr. Stangl highlighted the importance of managing contractors effectively.
On a motion by Commissioner Carlson seconded by Commissioner Obringer to approve the programming of $500,000 of Measure J Program 13 Pedestrian, Bicycle, and Trail Facilities funds to rehabilitate the specified sections of the Iron Horse Regional Trail by unanimous vote of the members present (Cloven, Haskew, Noack, Obringer, Carlson, Ross).
5. Concord Reuse Project Update.
Mr. Todd introduced Josh Roden from Brookfield Properties and Guy Bjerke from the City of Concord, to provide an overview of the conceptual land use plan and project phasing strategy for the Concord Reuse Project (formerly the Concord Naval Weapons Station). The goal of the presentation was to detail the progress made towards the specific plan for the redevelopment
4 of the Concord Naval Weapons Station site. The presentation is included with the agenda packet and is available at transpac.us.
Commissioner Haskew inquired about the Navy’s cleanup responsibilities concerning the former Coast Guard property. Mr. Bjerke clarified that the Coast Guard property is not part of the Navy’s remediation obligations, as it was transferred previously. The current property owners are working on their own remediation assessments, which are expected to be minimal due to the site’s prior residential use.
Mr. Roden detailed planned infrastructure developments, including a new fire station to serve both the existing gap area and the redevelopment project. Additionally, a second fire station is proposed for the southern portion of the development. The project also includes improvements to Kenny Road, which runs beneath Highway 4, providing critical connectivity between the northern and southern areas of the development.
Coordination with East Bay Regional Parks was another focal point. Mr. Roden described plans for a staging area and improved access south of Bailey Road. The East Bay Regional Park District is also working to rehabilitate an existing building into a visitor center, which will feature educational components about the Port Chicago Memorial in collaboration with the National Park Service.
Mr. Roden provided an overview of the conceptual land use plan, emphasizing major infrastructure components and access considerations. The design focuses on connecting the area to the BART station and utilizing key roadways, such as Willow Pass Road and Port Chicago Highway, to establish links to Highway 4, downtown Concord, and Bailey Road. A main arterial road is planned to run centrally, providing connectivity from BART to Bailey Road. Additionally, a perimeter collector road will encircle the development, offering scenic access to the rehabilitated Mount Diablo Creek corridor. This rehabilitation effort aims to restore the creek’s native vegetation, manage flooding, and enhance riparian habitats.
Mr. Roden highlighted the proposed conceptual land use plan, which incorporates residential areas (various shades of yellow), mixed-use districts (shaded purple with higher densities), a Higher Education Campus district (light blue), and an innovation commercial district (salmon).
The plan also includes significant green spaces, such as the tournament sports park and citywide park near Mount Diablo Creek. Infrastructure improvements, such as a realigned Willow Pass Road and a new bridge crossing the creek, essential components of the first phase of development.
The open space plan showcases over 800 acres dedicated to parks and recreational areas.
Notable features include the Ridge Top Park, a linear park offering pedestrian-friendly connections between BART, Thurgood Marshall Park, and other key areas.
The project will be implemented in five major phases, guided by utility access and infrastructure constraints. Phase 1 will focus on creating horizontal mixed-use developments with commercial
5 and residential components, including affordable housing near the BART station. This proximity will facilitate access to transit and improve funding opportunities for affordable housing.
Subsequent phases will introduce the Campus District and innovation areas, expanding residential and commercial opportunities as infrastructure becomes operational. Public-private partnerships have been pivotal to this process, with Brookfield Properties and local stakeholders emphasizing community engagement to shape the foundational aspects of the plan.
While awaiting approval of the term sheet with the Navy, the development team is conducting traffic studies and engaging with utility and infrastructure providers, including PG&E, Contra Costa Water District, and Central Sanitary District. This preparatory work ensures that foundational elements are addressed before the specific plan progresses further.
The plan includes 55 acres for school sites, with considerations for declining enrollment and existing schools on the west side of the project. Legal agreements guarantee provisions for a food bank, permanent supportive housing, and a veterans’ hall, while the development also incorporates financial contributions for sports parks, libraries, and other civic amenities.
Looking ahead, the project timeline anticipates full approval of the Environmental Report, Specific Plan, and Disposition and Development Agreement by 2027. A Memorandum of Understanding and purchase agreement with the Navy are expected to finalize in 2028, enabling the first phase of property transfers and initial improvements to begin.
Commissioner Obringer inquired about upcoming virtual meetings, noting a session scheduled for December 12, 2024. Mr. Roden elaborated on the community engagement approach, which includes quarterly workshops or open houses held in various formats to accommodate public input. The December session, conducted virtually, will feature updates and potentially breakout rooms for feedback. Earlier sessions had been in-person, organized as stations where attendees could interact on specific topics like parks and open spaces, which emerged as a community priority.
Mr. Roden discussed the ongoing transportation analysis. The study, which is still in progress, examines the impacts on existing roadways like Port Chicago Highway and Willow Pass Road, which will be rebuilt. Plans include extending Evora Road through the project area, connecting to Port Chicago Highway, and creating a link under Highway 4. The analysis considers potential mitigations, including auxiliary lanes on Highway 4, and highlights the need for state and federal funding to address broader infrastructure challenges.
Mr. Bjerke added that once the draft transportation mitigation concepts are ready, consultations with local jurisdictions will ensure alignment with community needs. The County Transportation Authority’s model is being utilized, with Brookfield Properties engaging transportation experts to guide the process.
6 When asked about alternative transportation, Mr. Roden mentioned exploring autonomous shuttle systems paired with pedestrian and bike lanes. While in the conceptual phase, the initiative aims to leverage the project's scope for innovative solutions, potentially establishing the area as a testing ground for advanced transportation technologies.
Regarding sustainability, Mr. Roden detailed plans for a recycled water system, incorporating infrastructure early in the development process while aligning funding strategies to prioritize financial feasibility. The project is structured so that each phase—beginning with phase one— can operate independently, ensuring financial viability without dependency on later phases.
Energy considerations are a key focus, with discussions on creating a micro district independent of PG&E, integrating solar energy across residential buildings, and leveraging expertise from Brookfield Renewable and Brookfield Infrastructure. The goal is to future-proof the development for a transition to all-electric systems, aligning with California’s evolving energy standards. These plans reflect a commitment to balancing innovative infrastructure, sustainability, and financial practicality while actively engaging with the community and local stakeholders to address their priorities and concerns.
Commissioner Ross asked how many houses and people are anticipated to occupy the site. Mr.
Roden explained that there are approximately 12,272 homes in the community, of which around 8,000 are considered single-family residences. These include both attached townhomes and detached houses on smaller lots, reflecting a higher-density housing model compared to more conventional neighborhoods like those currently in Concord. Additionally, about 4,000 residences are comprised of garden-style apartments and podium-style buildings with five to six stories, bringing the area's total population to just over 30,000 residents. Josh also highlighted the presence of 6 million square feet of commercial and institutional space.
6. TRANSPAC CCTA Representative Report.
Planning Committee
Commissioner Haskew shared that the planning committee's latest session had been canceled.
However, she emphasized the value of a recent two-and-a-half-day CCTA retreat, during which members conducted in-depth discussions on future strategies and ways for the agency to adapt to emerging challenges to enhance its effectiveness.
Administration and Projects Committee
Following Commissioner Haskew’s update, Commissioner Noack noted that while the APC meeting did not produce any notably significant updates, she echoed Commissioner Haskew’s sentiments about the importance and productivity of the CCTA off-site retreat, highlighting its role in shaping the agency’s future direction.
7 7. METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION REPORT.
No comments from the Board.
8. TAC ORAL REPORTS BY JURISDICTION.
No comments from the TAC.
9. BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS.
At the TRANSPAC meeting, Commissioners Carlson, Noack and Obringer expressed their gratitude and appreciation for outgoing Commissioners Mark Ross, Loella Haskew, and Peter Cloven and their contributions. Commissioners, Ross, Haskew and Cloven reflected on their time in public service and on TRANSPAC and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve.
10. MANAGING DIRECTOR’S REPORT.
No comments from the Managing Director.
11. ADJOURN / NEXT MEETING.
The meeting adjourned at 10:17 a.m. The next regular meeting will be held on February 13, 2024, at the City of Pleasant Hill Large Community Room – 100 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill.