Marin County Approves $2.2 Million for Underground Utility Lines
Marin County supervisors have taken a significant step forward in improving infrastructure along the Redwood Highway Frontage Road in Strawberry. The board approved a $2.2 million allocation to bury utility lines as part of a larger project that totals $4.5 million. This funding is specifically designated for the construction phase, while the remaining amount will cover the utility phase.
The project will focus on a 0.4-mile corridor between Belvedere Drive and Seminary Drive. This area is part of a long-term initiative that began years ago near the Strawberry Village shopping center. Supervisor Stephanie Moulton-Peters highlighted the importance of this second phase, which involves collaboration with Pacific Gas and Electric Co. (PG&E). She noted that there is a strict deadline tied to Rule 20A, a regulation set by the California Public Utilities Commission.
Rule 20A requires PG&E to allocate specific work credits annually for communities seeking to move overhead electrical lines underground. Moulton-Peters emphasized that failure to meet the deadline could result in losing access to critical funding, making it essential to move forward with the project.
The project will involve constructing underground conduits for use by multiple utility providers, including PG&E, AT&T, and Comcast. One of the most complex aspects of the work includes drilling horizontally beneath Highway 101. A staff report outlined the challenges associated with this task, noting that unexpected objects and obstacles may be encountered below the highway.
To account for these uncertainties, the project budget includes a 25% contingency fund. The report identified several potential subsurface conditions, such as soft bay mud soils, hard rock outcrops, variable depths and locations of existing utilities, groundwater fluctuations, and the possibility of encountering buried manmade objects. These factors underscore the need for careful planning and execution.
Construction is expected to begin in early August and continue through late October. During this time, street parking will be limited, which may impact local businesses and residents. However, the project is seen as a necessary investment in both safety and community development.
Moulton-Peters also mentioned that the undergrounding project will be followed by another phase focused on creating bike lanes. Initial discussions about a potential bike path have already begun, with the goal of opening up right-of-way space for a dedicated lane. This could provide a safer and more convenient route for adults and older students traveling from Strawberry to Mill Valley, particularly for those using the pedestrian overcrossing to reach the middle school.
Planning for the bike lane phase will include outreach to frontage road businesses to address parking needs and ensure that the project benefits the entire community. This approach reflects a broader commitment to sustainable and accessible transportation options.
Fire officials have also expressed support for the project. Chief Chris Tubbs of the Southern Marin Fire Protection District praised the undergrounding of power lines as a crucial step in preventing wildfires and enhancing public safety. He noted that reducing ignition sources and maintaining clear evacuation routes directly improves the effectiveness of emergency response efforts.
With the approval of the funding and the start of construction, the project marks an important milestone for the community. It represents a collaborative effort between county officials, utility providers, and local residents to create a safer, more connected, and more resilient environment.
