Tiburon Planning Commission finds draft five-year CIP consistent with general plan

The Tiburon Planning Commission voted unanimously to find the town’s draft five‑year Capital Improvement Program (CIP) consistent with the goals and policies of the Town of Tiburon General Plan, a review required by the California Government Code.

Engineering Manager David Eshoo presented the draft CIP and described 29 proposed projects focused primarily on maintenance and upgrades to town facilities and infrastructure, with particular emphasis on paving, drainage, bike/pedestrian improvements and parks. Eshoo said the CIP identifies anticipated capital improvements and proposed funding sources for the next five years and focuses on fiscal year 2026 for work planning. “Again, as Chair Jeff Tsai has stated, this is required by California government code,” Eshoo said.

The commission’s motion to find the draft CIP consistent was made by Commissioner Williams, seconded by Commissioner Woodward and carried on a 4‑0 voice vote. Commissioners present who voted in favor were Chair Pro Tem Jeff Tsai, Commissioner Williams, Commissioner Woodward and Acting Chair Sy; no public comments were received before the vote.

Major projects described in staff materials and the presentation include: - Annual bicycle and pedestrian improvements: $50,000 recurring allocation for smaller repairs and signage around town. - Clayner Way safe‑pathway (TAM grant): design roughly 35% complete; the project received a $450,000 grant and would install ADA curb ramps and continuous sidewalks to improve school and neighborhood access. - Paradise Drive pavement rehabilitation: engineered estimate about $1,650,000; bids reported around $1,400,000; work planned to begin after local schools adjourn for the summer (45 working days estimated). - Main Street bridge short‑term repairs: a preliminary estimate of about $350,000 to address deteriorated structural elements while the town pursues grant funding for replacement. - Storm drain upsizing on Claire Way/Karen Way and Bel Air Play Area: engineer’s estimate $500,000; bids came in near $350,000; work intended to reduce localized flooding. - Large trash capture device at Fountain Plaza: design funded by an EPA grant ($56,000 design grant); staff said the construction would be covered by grant funding and the equipment is expected to reduce downtown flooding tied to the failing flap gate. - Broadband/fiber network conduit design: 95% complete as presented; design submitted to Caltrans for encroachment review with the intent to include the town work as an add‑alternate on a future Caltrans paving contract. - Tiburon traffic study (Parametrix): reported at about 65–70% complete with draft recommendations forthcoming; staff said Caltrans is participating on the advisory panel and the traffic study’s recommendations will be coordinated with Caltrans planning work.

Eshoo and commissioners discussed coordination with Caltrans on traffic and broadband work, grant funding and construction timelines. Eshoo said some Caltrans work has been delayed, giving the town additional time to complete its traffic study and encroachment permits. Commissioners also asked staff about alternatives to diesel backup power at the corporation yard and town facilities; Eshoo said the town’s sustainability coordinator, Grace Ledwith, is working with staff on a master plan for battery storage and additional solar to reduce reliance on diesel generators.

Commissioners commended public works staff for obtaining grants and advancing multiple projects. Several commissioners asked staff to present future CIP summaries with clearer prioritization and consolidated dollar totals (for example, amounts tied to parks, paving and drainage) and to show progress on multi‑year projects in future reports.

The commission’s finding is advisory: the CIP’s funding appropriations and final project authorizations occur through the town council’s budget adoption and contract approval processes. Staff said town council will receive the individual project funding requests during the annual budget process and on upcoming council agendas for items already approved for contract advertisement or award.

The commission closed the item with no public commenters and adjourned following the vote.