Caltrans staff provided a series of district updates covering grant opportunities, signage, tunnel closures and planning processes.

Tasha (Caltrans) said the Clean California program is offering a new funding round to support litter abatement and public‑space beautification on locally owned right‑of‑way, with an application window of about one month and a grant timeline of roughly one year. She said local agencies and tribal governments are eligible and that the statewide pot is $25 million; Caltrans district staff will coordinate application submissions with local agencies.

On the welcome signs project, staff reported manufacturing delays earlier in the year but said a contractor has now signed and is scheduled to pour foundations, pave and install the monument. On Collier Tunnel and the safety/roadside recreation area, staff said ongoing mechanical and wastewater issues will require more work and Caltrans will pursue longer‑term remedies and return to the commission with options.

Tasha said the district received four responses to the SHOP 10‑year plan survey from Del Norte agencies; the district will provide an asset‑manager response to those comments and the Caltrans project list may change because the latest state fund estimate is about 16% lower than the previous cycle. She said emergency and safety projects continue to be funded off the top of SHOP, and statewide emergency needs have grown; district staff will circulate updates.

Caltrans also said a district transit plan is launching, including a location‑based survey and focus groups with transit partners; Del Norte agencies will be included. Staff announced upcoming public engagement events, including more “Transgrade: Coffee with Caltrans” sessions.