Caltrans: Richardson Grove contract awarded, construction to resume when dry; completion targeted for 2027
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Summary
Caltrans reported Mercer Fraser was awarded the Richardson Grove improvement contract, tree removals are complete, and construction is expected to resume in May–June with 208 working days scheduled and a projected completion in 2027; the California Court of Appeal ruled in Caltrans’ favor on March 26, 2026.
Caltrans District 1 project staff updated the Del Norte Local Transportation Commission on April 7 about the Richardson Grove improvement project, reporting a contractor award, progress on environmental protections and a schedule to resume work when weather permits.
Brenda Howell, identified by staff as the District 1 project manager for Richardson Grove, told the commission that Mercer Fraser was awarded the contract following a bid opening in November; the contract was awarded December 15 and received contract approval on Jan. 21. Howell said that tree removal work required for the project has been completed and that additional construction will wait for dry weather, with activity expected to start in May or June. She stated, "The project has 208 working days and is scheduled for completion in 2027."
Howell told the commission that Caltrans environmental teams have been on site to salvage rare plants and relocate them within the park. She also noted a court decision affecting the project: "On 03/26/2026, the California Court of Appeal ruled in favor of Caltrans, ending more than 15 years of litigation," which Howell said removes a major legal obstacle to moving forward.
Commissioners asked about traveler delays during construction and were told that short waits are expected; a staff member said he had last heard estimates of 15–20 minutes at the most. The project team emphasized careful construction techniques — including hand work and air spading — to protect tree roots and sensitive environmental resources, and said that these protections are lengthening the number of working days.
Howell encouraged anyone seeking more detailed project documents or schedules to consult the Caltrans project website and said she had posted the link in the presentation materials. Commissioners thanked Caltrans for the update and for preserving environmental resources; no formal action was required beyond receiving the report.
