Full Notification

On July 1, 2016, the Town of Moraga was notified by Caltrans representatives that the Town’s application for funding assistance from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) for the initial emergency response and permanent repair of the sinkhole on Rheem Boulevard at Center Street was approved. The Town’s acceptance of FHWA financial assistance requires the Town to follow strict FHWA guidelines and approvals for each step of the process. The Town has been diligently working with Caltrans Office of Local Assistance, who administers the federal funds. Since July 1, approvals for the preliminary engineering and environmental phases of the project have been achieved.

Unfortunately, the Town’s original plan to award a contract for construction of the permanent repair work prior to the rainy season, which typically begins in mid-October, is no longer viable. The Town will move forward with our contingency “winterization” plan in the next few weeks to secure the work site, install storm water management and erosion protection measures, and patch any voids in the 96-inch culvert to allow Laguna Creek to pass through without creating further damage. Winterizing the site will allow for vehicles to continue safely traversing Rheem Boulevard and Center Street in its current lane configuration with one lane open in each direction. Without this work, the roadway would need to be closed during the rainy season. The Town’s contractor and inspectors will maintain and monitor the site for any changes or damage throughout the winter season while the storm water and erosion protection measures are in place.

The Town expects to receive authorization from Caltrans to bid the permanent repair work so that construction can begin next year after the rainy season, which traditionally ends in mid-April. The community will be notified prior to the beginning of any road closure or permanent repair work. Staff continues to work diligently to get Rheem Boulevard and the community back to normal. We anticipate lots of work ahead and appreciate your support. This update and all past updates can be found on the Town website’s dedicated Sinkhole webpage. Thank you for your continued patience.

For Additional Information - please contact Edric Kwan, Moraga Director of Public Works via e-mail ([email protected]) or via telephone (925-888-7026).