El Sereno allocates $3.47M for Ohlone Greenway safety and improvement project

El Cerrito's City Council meeting on May 20, 2025, spotlighted critical funding discussions surrounding the Ohlone Greenway, a vital bike and pedestrian pathway. Council Member Catanis raised concerns about the allocation of $9.78 million in grant funding from the 1 Bay Area program, specifically questioning how much of that amount has been directed toward necessary repairs and safety enhancements for the Greenway.

Public Works Director Yvette Ortiz responded, clarifying that approximately $3.47 million of the grant was specifically earmarked for the Ohlone Greenway BART Station area access safety and placemaking improvements project, which was completed in 2020. This project included significant upgrades such as widening the path, adding lighting, and improving pedestrian crossings, all aimed at enhancing safety and accessibility.

Ortiz emphasized that while the grant funding addressed some maintenance needs, it is not intended for ongoing operational costs. The city is actively seeking additional grants to tackle further maintenance and improvements along the Greenway. Currently, priority repairs near Eureka are underway, funded by the city's Measure J return to source funds, with hopes to complete this project by summer.

Looking ahead, Ortiz noted that design funding has been secured for the last segment of the Ohlone trail that has yet to be renovated, indicating a proactive approach to maintaining and enhancing this essential community resource. The city plans to provide more detailed information on infrastructure maintenance as part of its biannual budget process, ensuring that the community remains informed about ongoing and future improvements.