Board authorizes eminent-domain step to secure right-of-way for Stephenson Bridge rehabilitation

The Solano County Board of Supervisors on Jan. 14 adopted a resolution of necessity to acquire, by eminent domain if needed, a 1.45-acre portion of APN 0107-020-040 for the Stephenson Bridge rehabilitation project.

The resolution authorizes initiation of eminent-domain proceedings if negotiations with the parcel's trustees cannot be completed. County engineers and surveyors told the board the right-of-way is required to realign the road approaches, install scour protection and allow structural rehabilitation of the historic tied‑arch bridge that spans Putah Creek between Winters and Davis.

Why it matters: Staff said the bridge is seismically vulnerable and scour-critical; federal and state bridge funding has been secured and will be at risk if the county cannot deliver the project on schedule. Without the work, planners said the structure's condition could deteriorate further and public access and safety would be jeopardized.

What staff presented

Resource Management engineering manager Matt Tuggle and county surveyor Chris Ferrucci outlined the rehabilitation plan: seismic and scour protection using new deep foundations, carbon-fiber…