Robertson Boulevard safety upgrades begin; Caltrans continues Rancho Calera right‑of‑way work

Mr. Rogers briefed the Chowchilla City Council on transportation and streetscape projects. He said Caltrans and local staff are still resolving right‑of‑way issues for the Rancho Calera (Chachula) interchange and that Caltrans plans a meeting with Rancho Calera property owners to finalize those elements. "They're still trying to figure out the right of way so that they can continue on with design," he said.

Rogers also reported that contractors began work on the Robertson Boulevard Clean California project this week. The city described planned improvements that include median beautification and traffic‑calming elements at the railroad‑track corner, new ADA‑compliant curb ramps, valley gutters at Fifth Street, high‑visibility crosswalk facilities and rapid flashing beacons for pedestrians. Rogers said the project is funded through the Caltrans Clean California Local Grant Program and that the work aims to make walking safer and improve access.

Separately, council members discussed zoning updates related to economic development, a potential program-level environmental impact review for an industrial-specific plan, and continued efforts to secure a communications tower (Verizon) to improve connectivity and surveillance options. Staff indicated these items will return to the council following planning commission review or additional legal review as needed.