City officials address Highway 156 construction impact on San Juan Hollister Road

The San Benito County Board of Supervisors held a regular meeting on April 22, 2025, where key discussions focused on road maintenance and budget constraints. The meeting highlighted the ongoing challenges of managing local road conditions, particularly in light of recent construction projects.

One significant topic was the effectiveness of a new road repair mix that has shown better performance and is slightly cheaper than previous methods. This improvement is seen as a positive development for the county's limited road maintenance budget, which primarily allows for pothole filling rather than full repaving.

Supervisor Sotelo raised concerns about the condition of San Juan Hollister Road, which has deteriorated due to the construction of Highway 156. She inquired about the possibility of holding Caltrans accountable for the damage, as the road remains under their jurisdiction until the project is completed. The county's representatives confirmed they would reach out to Caltrans again to address the issue and explore options for immediate repairs, such as filling potholes.

Additionally, the board discussed the formation of ad hoc committees focused on road and budget management. These committees aim to prioritize projects for the upcoming fiscal year, ensuring that available funding is allocated effectively. The board emphasized the importance of having a clear understanding of current road conditions and the potential impacts of ongoing construction on traffic flow.

Overall, the meeting underscored the county's commitment to improving road safety and maintenance while navigating financial limitations and external construction impacts. The board plans to continue discussions with Caltrans and explore all available options to enhance local infrastructure.