1 TRANSPAC Committee Meeting Summary Minutes
MEETING DATE: February 13, 2025
MEMBERS PRESENT: Carlyn Obringer, Concord (Chair); Ken Carlson, Contra Costa County (Vice Chair); Sue Noack, Pleasant Hill; Kevin Wilk, Walnut Creek; Richard Enea, Clayton; Greg Young,
Martinez
PLANNING COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Molly Clopp, Walnut Creek STAFF PRESENT: Abhishek Parikh, Concord; Ryan McClain Pleasant Hill; Samantha Harris, Contra Costa County, Colin Clarke,
CCTA, Joan Hoang, CCTA; Matt Braughton, Kittelson;
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. Election of Chair and Vice Chair.
On a motion by Commissioner Noack seconded by Commissioner Carlson to elect Carlyn Obringer, the current Vice Chair, to assume the role of TRANSPAC Chair by unanimous vote of the members present (Noack, Obringer, Wilk, Enea, Carlson, Young).
On a motion by Commissioner Noack seconded by Commissioner Wilk to elect Ken Carlson the Vice Chair for the term February 1, 2025, through January 31, 2026, by unanimous vote of the members present (Noack, Obringer, Wilk, Enea, Carlson, Young).
4. Consent Agenda
On a motion by Commissioner Wilk seconded by Commissioner Noack to approve the consent agenda by unanimous vote of the members present (Noack, Obringer, Wilk, Enea, Carlson, Young).
End Consent Agenda
2 5. TRANSPAC ANNUAL FINANCIAL REPORT AS OF JUNE 30, 2024, AND 2023 WITH INDEPENDENT AUDITORS’ REPORT.
The TRANSPAC annual financial report for the fiscal years ending June 30, 2024, and June 30, 2023, including an independent auditor’s report. Mr. Todd provided an overview of the audit, emphasizing its compliance with TRANSPAC’s Joint Powers Agreement (JPA) and Government Code Section 6505. The audit was described as "clean," with the only notable adjustment relating to an expense from the 2023-24 fiscal year that had initially been recorded in 2024-25 with the discrepancy being corrected in accordance with the auditor’s recommendation.
On a motion by Commissioner Noack seconded by Commissioner Carlson to accept the audit report by unanimous vote of the members present (Noack, Obringer, Wilk, Enea, Carlson, Young).
6. TRANSPAC FY 2024/2025 WORKPLAN PROGRESS REPORT.
Mr. Todd provided an update on key initiatives, including regional coordination, transportation demand management programs, funding allocations, and policy discussions. Highlights included funding approvals for Iron Horse Trail maintenance, bike improvements in Walnut Creek, and Safe Routes to School programs. There was also discussion on upcoming agenda items, including a review of the TRANSPAC Subregional Transportation Mitigation Program, updates on the 511 Contra Costa program, Assembly Bill 413/California Daylighting law, and a call for projects for Transportation Fund for Clean Air (TFCA) funding.
Board members raised specific concerns, including the status of student transit passes previously funded through 511 Contra Costa, the availability of funding for electric vehicle charging infrastructure, and an update on Measure J Line 20a accessible transportation programs. It was noted that mid-year reports on these programs would be gathered in June and presented in early fall.
7. CALIFORNIA DAYLIGHTING LAW (AB413).
A copy of the presentation is included in the agenda materials available at transpac.us.
Ryan McClain, the Pleasant Hill Transportation Manager, provided a presentation on Assembly Bill 413, the California Daylighting Law. He emphasized that with new law took effect in the beginning of 2025 and it became apparent that there was a lack of public awareness and understanding of the law and its impacts. In response, the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) discussed how each TRANSPAC jurisdiction planned to approach and publicize the new regulations and handle enforcement.
Mr. McClain clarified that Assembly Bill 413 pertains to "daylighting," which in this context refers to ensuring that drivers approaching a crosswalk have an unobstructed view of pedestrians. The law mandates a 20-foot no-parking zone on the approach side of crosswalks, reduced to 15 feet if there is a curb extension. This regulation applies not only to marked crosswalks but also to unmarked crosswalks, which exist wherever sidewalks extend across an intersection, even if no painted lines are present.
3 Mr. McClain acknowledged that many drivers are unaware of unmarked crosswalks and their associated rules, posing a challenge for enforcement. He explained that while some cities discussed painting red curbs or installing no-parking signs to raise awareness, the consensus was to instead, focus on education efforts, including online resources, newsletters, warning notices placed on vehicles, and website updates to inform the public.
During the discussion, concerns were raised about enforcement, including whether officers would be required to measure distances and how citations would be handled. Mr. McClain noted that the violation would result in a parking ticket rather than a moving violation, and enforcement practices would vary by jurisdiction. He also addressed concerns regarding the practicality of the law in high-density areas like San Francisco, where parking is already scarce.
Commissioner Enea commented that state legislators are considering amendments to the law to provide cities with greater flexibility in implementation. Some jurisdictions, particularly smaller cities with limited downtown areas, may have different enforcement approaches. Mr. McClain reiterated that the primary goal is education and voluntary compliance, rather than immediate widespread ticketing.
Commissioner Carlson raised a point regarding the placement of red curbs in relation to intersections, ensuring that enforcement and public education efforts clearly distinguish between the approach and departure sides of a crosswalk. McClain confirmed that the restriction applies only to the approach side, further emphasizing the importance of clarity in outreach materials.
8. DRAFT CONTRA COSTA COUNTYWIDE COMPREHENSIVE TRANSPORTATION SAFETY ACTION PLAN FOR LOCAL AGENCIES.
A copy of the presentation is included in the agenda materials available at transpac.us.
Mr. Clarke from the Transportation Authority provided an overview, explaining that the TRANSPAC TAC had reviewed the item in October and November. This item had been intended for discussion with TRANSPAC in December prior to the CCTA Board approving the plan (also in December). He emphasized the importance of gathering feedback from various jurisdictions and noted that any verbal or written comments received would be considered moving forward.
Mr. Clarke explained that the initiative, which began around 2023, was designed to empower local agencies to serve as lead applicants for the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant program.
This initiative aimed to address state and federal compliance while integrating local road safety plans into a coordinated, countywide approach. He elaborated on public engagement efforts, which included leveraging the Countywide Transportation Plan (CTP) and participating in community events to gather input. As a result, the effort resulted in a $1.6 million grant application involving multiple agencies.
Mr. Clarke then provided an overview of the Safe Systems Approach and highlighted the policy goal of eliminating traffic fatalities by 2034, with a 50% reduction target by 2029. Mr. Clarke also discussed data analysis conducted between 2008 and 2017, which identified common collision patterns such as pedestrian incidents, right-turn slip lanes, and other high-risk factors.
4 Mr. Clarke provided additional insights, summarizing the top three collision types for each jurisdiction. He noted that common incidents included broadside collisions at intersections and single-vehicle crashes involving fixed objects. He emphasized the high priority placed on pedestrian safety due to their vulnerability in severe accidents. Mr. Clarke further outlined how the findings were compiled from local road safety plans adopted by each jurisdiction.
Discussing the economic impact of collisions, Mr. Clarke presented data demonstrating the significant financial burden resulting from traffic incidents. He explained that annual costs attributable to crashes within Contra Costa County amounted to approximately $1.3 billion, factoring in emergency response, loss of productivity, legal expenses, and medical care.
Commissioner Obringer asked for clarification regarding the data sources cited in the presentation. Mr. Clarke explained that the Transportation Injury Mapping System (TIMS), maintained by UC Berkeley, compiles data from the California Highway Patrol (CHP) to spatially map crash locations. Commissioner Enea sought additional clarification regarding TIMS, confirming that it relies on CHP data for mapping injury and fatal collisions.
Commissioner Noack shared her observations regarding public concerns over recent roadway modifications aimed at enhancing safety. She noted that some community members perceived these changes as contributing to congestion rather than improving safety. Commissioner Noack suggested that broader public outreach efforts were necessary to communicate the economic and safety benefits of such projects. She proposed that cities incorporate key findings from the presentation into public communications, including newsletters and council presentations.
Mr. Clarke acknowledged the challenge of public perception and noted that CCTA had shared this information with the Bay Area Council in an effort to reach business communities. Commissioner Noack emphasized that outreach efforts should extend beyond businesses to directly inform the public. She recommended incorporating relevant slides into city presentations and newsletters to better convey the rationale behind transportation safety initiatives.
9. COUNTYWIDE EMERGENCY EVACUATION PLAN.
John Hoang, Director of Planning for the Contra Costa Transportation Authority, presented on the Countywide Emergency Evacuation Plan. He shared that the project had finally reached a significant milestone, as Caltrans approved an agreement the previous morning after a long waiting period.
Mr. Hoang explained that the application was submitted in January 2024, with the grant award notification received in the summer. The agreement was then taken to the Board for approval in September, with final signatures obtained just the previous day.
The project is funded through the Caltrans Sustainable Transportation Planning grant under the Climate Adaptation Planning Category. Mr. Hoang noted that similar evacuation planning grants had been successfully secured by other regions in Southern California. The Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA) took the lead on this effort due to the direct link between transportation and evacuation, as well as ongoing projects that would enhance evacuation capabilities. The total project cost is approximately $1.7 million, with $1.5 million covered by the grant and CCTA providing a local match of $208,000.
5 This countywide initiative involves collaboration with all sub-regions, including West County, East County, Central (TRANSPAC), and Southwest County. Mr. Hoang emphasized that the project aims to leverage the existing Local Hazard Mitigation Plan, recently completed by the County Office of Emergency Services (OES), utilizing its structure and stakeholders in the plan's development. The initiative also seeks to address evacuation needs in compliance with legislation such as SB 99 and AB 747, which mandate safe evacuation planning at the local level.
Mr. Hoang outlined the various hazards the plan seeks to mitigate, including earthquakes, sea level rise, and wildfires—an increasingly significant concern in both Southern and Northern California. He cited the devastating Paradise fire as an event that initially prompted CCTA to explore evacuation planning. Other potential disasters under consideration include tsunamis, landslides, and refinery-related incidents in the Martinez and Richmond areas. Given the inevitable strain that any evacuation would place on the county’s transportation network, CCTA’s involvement is crucial in ensuring the region’s resilience and ability to move residents to safety efficiently.
The project originated from discussions with staff in Lafayette and Orinda, who were dealing with local evacuation challenges. These conversations led to the realization that a countywide effort would be more beneficial, particularly for underserved communities. As part of the grant requirement 50% of the grant would serve underserved communities. Mr. Hoang explained that underserved communities overlap significantly with Economic Priority Communities (EPCs), and both will be included in the planning.
The initiative will require extensive community engagement, involving county OES, fire districts, committees, and interested commissioners. Mr. Hoang acknowledged the significant effort required to bring together various stakeholders. The project’s approach involves evaluating five different sub-regions and developing up to six emergency event scenarios for each. Modeling will be used to identify evacuation routes, assess emergency activities, prioritize responses, estimate associated costs, and coordinate efforts with first responders. These findings will be consolidated into strategic recommendations.
The scope of work includes forming a technical advisory committee, engaging stakeholders, conducting a resiliency assessment, and ensuring that cities receive actionable plans. Given the interconnected nature of municipalities—such as Pleasant Hill, Concord, and Martinez—multi-city coordination will be essential. Transit agencies will also play a significant role, as mass transit must be integrated into evacuation strategies. Mr. Hoang noted that BART has already expressed interest in participating. Additionally, the plan will examine contraflow measures to optimize evacuation routes.
Now that the agreement has been executed, CCTA plans to release a Request for Proposals (RFP).
If the process proceeds as anticipated, a contractor will be selected within the next few months, with the project expected to be completed by June 2027.
Commissioner Enea highlighted the presence of a gasoline pipeline running through the town, questioning whether it posed any evacuation risks.
6 Commissioner Young sought clarification on whether 50% of the $1.7 million budget would be specifically allocated to underserved communities or if the requirement only referred to the project’s focus. Mr. Hoang responded that 50% of the work would be dedicated to these communities, though the financial allocation would align proportionally. Commissioner Young emphasized the importance of ensuring that real resources are directed toward underserved areas. Commissioner Obringer affirmed Commissioner Young’s concerns and requested that Mr.
Hoang provide additional information to TRANSPAC staff for better clarity.
10. FORM 700 FILING REQUIREMENTS FOR 2025.
Tiffany Gephart discussed the Form 700 filing requirement and noted the deadline for this year’s filing is April 1, 2025. Ms. Gephart encouraged all members to submit their filings electronically through the NetFile system. Ms. Gephart noted that TRANSPAC staff will be reviewing the NetFile database to ensure all newly appointed members are added and will contact members individually.
11. TRANSPAC CCTA REPRESENTATIVE REPORTS.
There were no CCTA Representative Reports.
12. METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION REPORT.
Commissioner Noack provided an update on the latest activities at the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC). She began by highlighting ongoing efforts to address the fiscal cliff facing transit agencies. MTC is in the early stages of working with legislators to explore potential revenue measures. Three primary options are being considered:
1. A four-county option with a half-cent sales tax.
2. A four-county option with a variable rate—three counties at a half-cent, while San Francisco would have a seven-eighths-cent tax to address the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) shortfall.
3. A nine-county, 30-year hybrid proposal, which combines a half-cent sales tax with a parcel tax.
Commissioner Noack noted that polling results on these options would be presented at MTC the following morning. Additionally, meetings with legislators have already taken place, and a visit to Sacramento is scheduled for March to assess the status of the bill. There is interest in consolidating this with a housing proposal, but also concern about how that will impact the overall support.
Another major issue MTC is addressing is the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge bike lane. Currently, there is an active barrier seven days a week. MTC has submitted a proposal to the San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission (BCDC) to modify this to the weekend (Friday, Saturday and Sunday). This would allow the lane to serve as a shoulder during the heavy commute days, Monday through Thursday, with the goal of reducing congestion caused by accidents or stalled vehicles. The proposal is scheduled for a hearing in March, and is receiving a lot of feedback. In the long term, MTC is proposing to convert the third lane on the bridge into a HighOccupancy Vehicle (HOV) or bus-only transit lane.
7 Commissioner Noack also discussed the recently approved toll increase, set to take effect in 2026 under the Bay Area Toll Authority. By 2027, there will be a price differential for bridge crossings between drivers using FasTrak and those without it. The goal is to encourage FasTrak adoption, as the cost of invoicing and collecting unpaid tolls is substantial—resulting in losses of $25–35 million annually.
Commissioner Young inquired about whether unpaid tolls impact vehicle registration through the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Commissioner Noack confirmed that unpaid tolls are reported to the DMV, potentially affecting registration. However, enforcement was suspended during the pandemic and has only recently resumed. Additionally, MTC is emphasizing FasTrak adoption not just for bridge tolls but also for the Express Lanes expanding to Interstates 80 and 680.
Commissioner Noack concluded by announcing that at the end of the month, she would assume the role of Chair of MTC.
13. TAC ORAL REPORTS BY JURISDICTION.
No comments from the TAC.
14. BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS.
No comments from the Board.
15. MANAGING DIRECTOR’S REPORT.
Mr. Todd provided an update regarding new TRANSPAC members, stating that efforts are underway to schedule orientation meetings. Additionally, Mr. Todd noted we received an email from Bruce Olson regarding the Willow Pass Highway 4 off-ramp area which is provided as a handout at the meeting.
16. ADJOURN / NEXT MEETING.
The next regular meeting is proposed for March 13, 2025, at 9:00 A.M at the Pleasant Hill City Hall Large Community Room at 100 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill.