With a $14 million federal earmark in hand, Supervisor Piepho said, “This effort will provide an opportunity for East County leaders to discuss with neighboring counties how the transportation system will look in the future. This is a critical connection that will eliminate the cul-de-sac effect in East Contra Costa County, removing a major obstacle to job development and economic vitality.”
According to Sen. Mark DeSaulnier, “Residents and policymakers realize that Eastern Contra Costa County is “cul-de-saced,” providing only one way in and one way out. I am looking forward to working with Supervisor Piepho as we insure that this small stretch of new highway provides a safe new route for increased commerce that will respect communities and the important environment of the region.”
Metropolitan Transportation Commission Member and Orinda City Councilmember Amy Worth said that “the new State Route 239 is a critical component in promoting economic development and in creating a better flow for goods movement in the region.”
Erick Stonebarger, a Brentwood city councilman and local farmer, said it’s critical to find an alternative to Highway 4’s levee roads and old bridges as an avenue for transporting local produce.
Also in attendance at the meeting were representatives of U.S. Congress Members Ellen Tauscher and Jerry McNerney, and State Assembly Members Joan Buchanan and Tom Torlakson. The meeting also including Amy Worth from the Metropolitan Transportation Commission, County Supervisor Federal Glover’s Chief of Staff David Fraser, Town of Discovery Bay Community Services District Director David Piepho, East Contra Costa County Fire Chief Hugh Henderson and Vasco Safety Task Force member Jeff Altman. Staff from the City of Brentwood Public Works Department and Contra Costa County were also in attendance.
The group agreed that the next step in the process would be to engage stakeholders from Alameda and San Joaquin counties in the discussion.
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