Caltrans project at Pine Grove Elementary will add sidewalks and new driveways; utilities caused setbacks

Joe Cruz, representing the district's coordination with Caltrans, updated trustees on the Highway 88 safety and widening project affecting Pine Grove Elementary. The project includes three relocated driveways (Driveways 14–16), continuous sidewalks, an eight‑foot shoulder to add parking, traffic lights and a safer bus exit positioned more than 300 feet from the nearest intersection to meet Caltrans regulations.

Cruz said crews removed two relatively recent septic tanks but unexpectedly uncovered a third, older septic tank during excavation, which required removal and triggered a funding discussion about scope. "As they started digging the driveway out, they ran into another septic tank...So that was a setback for the project," Cruz said. He also reported crews discovered an unmarked Amador Water Agency line that sits two feet above the planned driveway grade; the water agency is scheduled to relocate the line on Monday to minimize delays.

The district and Caltrans have a contingency plan in case school starts before all surface work is completed. Cruz said the contractor has staged portable restroom facilities for staff and planned to complete school‑side sidewalks and septic connections immediately before classes resume; the overall project completion date remains October 15. Trustees pressed staff on grading for the bus exit, vehicle access during icy conditions, and whether Caltrans will reimburse short‑term district expenses such as rented restroom trailers; staff said the district is not bearing project costs and that Caltrans purchased a strip of the property years ago.

Cruz emphasized the project’s safety goals: continuous sidewalks, safer bus stops, parking, and a bus exit meeting Caltrans’ 300‑foot clearance rule. Board members thanked staff for the update and asked for follow‑up as the contractor completes electrical and paving work.