Contra Costa County Fire Protection District Achieves Improved ISO Class 2 Rating | | |
Contra Costa County Fire Protection District has earned a significant upgrade in its national Public Protection Classification from the Insurance Services Office (ISO), improving from Class 3/8B in the Western and Central areas and Class 4/9 in the Eastern area to a unified Class 2/2Y rating across the 582 square mile service area.
This improvement reflects years of strategic investment in facilities, staffing, training, prevention, and emergency response capabilities.
Contra Costa Fire’s score rose from approximately 75 to 87.4 points out of 105.5, placing the District just three points shy of the top Class 1 designation. This significant leap is attributed to enhanced service delivery, increased staffing, new facilities, robust fire prevention efforts, and fleet modernization.
To read full Press Release click here.
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California Invests Millions to Enhance Safety, Improve Travel Times and Boost Multimodal Travel Options
The California Transportation Commission approved $3 billion in allocations to enhance safety and mobility across the state highway system and expand multimodal travel, including bike lanes and pedestrian pathways. Guided by Governor Gavin Newsom’s Build More, Faster - For All infrastructure agenda, these improvements will make California communities safer, cleaner and increase access to active transportation options.
Among the larger projects approved by the Commission in
Contra Costa County District 2:
$42,374,000 on I-680 in San Ramon and Danville, from Alcosta Boulevard to 0.1
mile north of Diablo Road, to rehabilitate pavement, upgrade guardrail, and upgrade facilities to ADA standards. This will extend pavement service life and
improve ride quality.
$14,584,000 on SR-24 in Orinda, at the Caldecott Tunnel, to rehabilitate and
upgrade the ventilation system in Bores 1, 2, and 3. This will ensure structural
integrity and prolong tunnel service life.
$999,000 on SR-24 in Lafayette, from 0.7 to 1.0 mile east of Acalanes Road, to
rehabilitate pavement due to ponding and water seepage caused by heavy
rainfall in February and March 2025, which led to cracking and settlement. This
will extend pavement life and improve safety.
To read the full Press Release click here.
| | The Exchange Club of San Ramon Valley invites all to its 24th Annual 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony on Wednesday, September 11th, from 5:30-6:30 PM at the All-Wars Memorial at Oak Hill Park, 3005 Stone Valley Road in Danville. The ceremony honors the bravery and sacrifice of the fire, police, and military personnel who responded to the 9-11 attacks. | | BART Launches Tap and Ride | | |
A new day for riders arrived Wednesday, August 20th, as BART became the Bay Area’s first Tap and Ride system. Tap and Ride will provide riders the ability to pay adult fares at BART fare gates using physical contactless credit or debit cards or mobile payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Pay. With Tap and Ride, riders will no longer need to use a Clipper card to ride BART. This will be an immense timesaver for riders who can now use their contactless bank cards to ride BART with zero registration or setup process required.
Cards accepted for Tap and Ride on BART include Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover Network. Physical bank cards must be contactless enabled, with the contactless symbol on either the front or back of the card. Riders can also use bank cards added to digital wallets such as Apple Pay and Google Pay to Tap and Ride.
Questions? Call the Clipper Customer Service Center at 877-878-8883 for assistance using contactless bank cards.
Customers also may visit Clippercard - Contactless Payments
to learn more.
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SAVE THE DATES!
Contra Costa County Community Impact Fund
Town Hall Meetings
Where should $1 Million be spent in District 2?
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You're invited to join Supervisor Andersen for a series of town hall meetings to learn more about Contra Costa County’s Community Impact Fund and to provide your input about where $1 Million should be spent in the Lamorinda, San Ramon Valley and Walnut Creek communities in District 2.
Come share your feedback and ask questions.
Wednesday, September 10 – Walnut Creek, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Parkmead Elementary School
Monday, September 15 – San Ramon Valley, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Danville Community Center
Wednesday, September 24 – Lamorinda, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Lafayette Veterans Hall
Additional information and how to RSVP to a session coming soon.
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Essential Community Services
School is back in session which can bring along with it added stress. When a student, colleague, or family member is in crisis, knowing where to turn can make all the difference. These trusted resources are available 24/7 to provide support, guidance, and life-saving intervention.
The Wellness in Schools Program Resource Hub features an organized library of mental health supports - sorted into easy-to-navigate categories for school staff, students, and families. Explore curated links to crisis response, culturally responsive supports, classroom tools, and more. It is designed to help you quickly find the right resources to meet the unique needs of your school community.
Call or text 988 to connect with trained counselors who can help with thoughts of suicide, mental health crisis, or substance use concerns. Available 24/7, free, and confidential.
Contra Costa County's mobile crisis team can come directly to the location of a mental health emergency to provide immediate, in-person support, and stabilization. If you or someone you know is experiencing a behavioral health crisis, call the A3 Miles Hall Crisis Call Center at 844-844-5544, available 24/7.
Offering suicide prevention trainings, a 24 hour crisis line, and 211 navigation to connect people with local resources, including housing, food, counseling, and more.
To get connected to county mental health and substance use services for children, teens, and adults. Call the 24/7 ACCESS line at 1-888-678-7277
| | The Arc of California Community Impact Survey | | |
The Arc of California invites you to take its 2025 Community Impact Survey and make your voice heard. This 20-question survey, open through August 31st, takes just 7 to 10 minutes to complete and is open to the entire disability community, including individuals with developmental disabilities, family members, caregivers, service providers, regional center staff, special educators, therapists, medical professionals and advocates. Your feedback is critical to helping The Arc understand the real challenges facing our community and will directly guide the advocacy, policy, and programs they focus on in the coming year.
Click here to start survey.
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Contra Costa County to Perform
Topographical Survey on Pinehurst Road, Canyon
The Contra Costa County Public Works Department will be performing topographical survey work on Pinehurst Road starting Monday, August 25th through Friday, August 29th, barring unforeseen circumstances. Work will take place at Milepost 1.7 and extend approximately 200 feet in both directions. Work will occur between 7 AM to 5 PM and is subject to change based on observed traffic conditions.
There are no anticipated traffic impacts, but drivers may consider alternative routes during working hours. As always, please slow when traveling through this work zone.
| | Wildfire & Disaster Preparedness Guide | | | | |
Wildfires are becoming more common and intense, particularly in areas with dry climates and high populations, this necessitates a heightened focus on preparedness and mitigation efforts.
Please visit SRVFPD to learn more.
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Call for Nominations
The Danville Area Chamber of Commerce
2025 Community Awards
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Help Danville Chamber of Commerce honor the outstanding achievements of Danville's local business and nonprofit community. Nominations are now being accepting in 13 categories, including Businessperson of the Year, Nonprofit of the Year, Emerging Business of the Year, and more.
📅 Nominations Deadline: Friday, September 12, 2025 – 5:00 PM
📍 Awards Celebration: Tuesday, September 30, 2025
🏆 Submit your nominations today and join us at the Community Awards
Celebration on September 30!
Submit your nomination HERE.
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Sustainability Awards Gala September 17th!
The 17th Annual Sustainability Awards Gala and Fundraiser will be held on September 17th at the Pleasant Hill Community Center. This fun and inspiring event also features Central Contra Costa Sanitary District, who will present their Pollution Prevention Awards, and the Contra Costa Green Business Program will present new and re-certified green businesses.
Early bird tickets are on sale now and you can save $15 per ticket if you order before August 31st. Purchase tickets Here.
| | September Community Health Series | |
Prostate Cancer Awareness - Staying Ahead of the Game: Prostate Cancer Screening and Prevention
Date: Tuesday, September 16, 2025
Time: 12:30 – 1:00PM
Speaker: Dr. Richard Long, MD, Urology
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Ovarian Cancer Awareness - Focus on Ovarian Cancer and Its Treatment
Date: Wednesday, September 17, 2025
Time: 12:30 – 1:00PM
Speaker: Kelly Rose Schmidt, Physician Assistant, Gynecologic Oncology
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Lafayette Town Hall Theatre Presents Alabaster
This prize-winning play Alabaster is a deeply moving and surprisingly funny reminder that even after the storm, new beginnings are always possible. The Show runs August 16th through September 6th. Pay-What-You-Can tickets available for all performances at the door (starting at $2)
For the play synopsis, show times, and for tickets, click here
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Countywide Transportation Plan to be Updated
The Contra Costa Transportation Authority is updating the Countywide Transportation Plan, and they want to hear from you!
Whether you drive, bike, walk, ride transit, or scoot around our county, how you get around matters. Your input will help them plan for safer streets, connected communities, and smoother commutes.
Step inside their new 3-D Online Open House to see what tomorrow’s transportation improvements could look like in your own neighborhood. Then spend five quick minutes on the survey embedded in the site. Your feedback will guide 25 years of transportation investments and solutions.
As a thank you, you’ll be entered for a chance to win a $100 gift card!
Explore the Open House and take the survey at:
OpenHouse.CCTA
| | Wildcat Canyon Road Slope Failure Repair Construction Begins | | |
Contra Costa County Public Works began construction of the Wildcat Canyon Road Slope Failure Repair Project on Monday, August 11th and anticipates construction will continue through December 2025, barring unforeseen circumstances. Work will occur between 7AM and 5PM, Monday through Saturday, weather permitting. Work will take place on Wildcat Canyon Road approximately 500 feet west of the intersection with San Pablo Dam Road, Orinda
Wildcat Canyon Road will remain fully closed to all users, bicyclists included, between San Pablo Dam Road and Inspiration Point during construction, 24 hours per day. Message boards will alert drivers about the work.
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Mental Health Services Act Three Year Plan Update
The Mental Health Services Act (MHSA) Three Year Program and Expenditure Plan for Fiscal Year 2025-26 Annual Update, has been posted for a 30-day public comment and review period. The Plan includes the change to the updated budgeted amount for Capital Facilities Projects. The Public Comment period will run from August 21st through September 20th.
In November 2004, California voters passed Proposition 63 to establish the Mental Health Services Act. MHSA provides state funding for counties to expand and enhance the public behavioral health system of care.
The MHSA supports wellness, recovery and self-sufficiency by providing a wide range of services and resources to prevent mental health issues, offer early support and strengthen the public behavioral health system. This includes necessary tools like infrastructure, technology and training to make these services available.
The document is available at the following link: MHSA
If you would like to submit a public comment related to this document, please complete the 2025 MHSA Public Comment Form and send it via email to:
MHSA@cchealth.org
or mail it to:
Mental Health Services Act (MHSA)
1340 Arnold Drive, Suite 200
Martinez, CA 94553
| | Contra Costa Crisis Center is Hiring | | |
Looking for meaningful work that truly matters? The Contra Costa Crisis Center is hiring and they are looking for compassionate, dedicated individuals to join their team.
Whether you're answering life-saving 988 crisis calls, supporting families through community outreach, or helping people connect to housing, food, and mental health resources through 211, every role at the Crisis Center makes a real impact.
They offer a supportive work environment, growth opportunities, and the chance to help people through their most difficult moments.
Apply Here.
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The Orinda Theatre Presents an Evening with Jonathan Butler
Sunset Jazz Festivals & The Orinda Theatre invite you to a very special evening of music with the internationally celebrated Jonathan Butler, performance live at the iconic Orinda Theatre on Friday, August 29th 8:00pm - doors open at 7:00pm
Enjoy Jonathan's signature sound in a comfortable theatre with premium sound, lighting, and ambiance. Make a night of it, arrive early and enjoy dinner at one of Orinda's favorite local spots: Casa Orinda, Saffron Indian Restaurant & Bar, The Fourth Bore Taproom & Grill, Shelby's, or La Piazza Bar & Grill
Click here to reserve your seats!
| | Contra Costa Resource Conservation District is Recruiting | | |
Are you passionate about agriculture, natural resource stewardship and watershed conservation in Contra Costa County? Now is your chance to make a meaningful impact in your county.
The Contra Costa Resource Conservation District is seeking a dedicated community member to fill an open seat on the Board of Directors, with a term running through November 30, 2028. CCRCD is a state legislated special district with a mission to inspire, support and educate conservation efforts protecting the natural beauty and resources in our county.
Deadline to apply: Friday, August 29th by 5 PM
How to apply:
By mail at: 2001 Clayton Road, Ste. 200, Concord, CA 94520-2405
or
Email: Patty Pell at ppell@ccrcd.org
Application Forms Available: HERE.
Visit www.ccrcd.org for additional information or reach out to
Patty Pell at ppell@ccrcd.org with any questions.
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EBRPD Free Fishing Day on August 30th
Saturday, August 30th, is a free fishing day in the East Bay Regional Park District as both Park District fishing fees and state fishing license requirements are waived for visitors. Fishing is a great way to spend time outdoors, from first-timers to seasoned anglers. It’s a fun activity for all ages that offers a chance to slow down, enjoy nature, and connect with family and friends.
There are plenty of opportunities in the East Bay to cast a line. The Park District offers 10 fishing lakes, five bay and delta shoreline piers, and 25 miles of bay and delta shoreline for fishing.
Click here for more information: EBRPD
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Waste Reduction Community Grant Applications Open
Republic Services will award a community waste reduction project within the RecycleSmart service area with a $3,000 grant. Projects must be related to recycling, composting or other waste-reduction initiatives. These can be new projects or existing projects that need some help expanding.
The winner will be selected based on public voting by Central Contra Costa residents, on ContraCostaRecycles.com from Nov. 1–30, in conjunction with the Recycling Pledge.
Project must be located in Republic Services’ RecycleSmart service area: Alamo, Blackhawk, Danville, Diablo, Lafayette, Moraga, Orinda, or Walnut Creek.
For more information and to apply click here
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Join the San Ramon Valley Education Foundation’s 42nd Run for Education on Sunday, October 12th. Walk or run with friends, family, neighbors, teammates, and colleagues in support of the schools. Come for The Run and stay for the fun: enjoy the kids’ zone, inflatable games, face painter, exhibitor booths, and more!
The Run for Education is a community tradition in the San Ramon Valley spanning more than 40 years. By participating, you are helping fund STEAM grants and innovative programs across our 35 San Ramon Valley Unified School District public schools representing the communities of Alamo, Danville, and San Ramon.
REGISTER HERE
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The Tax-Aide Program is Looking for Volunteers!
Tax-Aide is looking for volunteers with diverse backgrounds and experiences to become members of a team providing free tax preparation service in Contra Costa County. While prior tax preparation experience is beneficial, it is not a requirement. The program provides comprehensive training and ongoing support to ensure all volunteers feel confident and capable in their roles.
Volunteer positions include Tax Counselors, who are trained by Tax-Aide and certified by the IRS and Client Facilitators, who schedule appointments and assist clients at tax sites.
To learn more and apply on-line, visit Tax-Aide or call (925) 726-3199 for additional information. Orientation Sessions will be held in December 2025 and Certification Classes start in January 2026. Tax preparation service is from February through April 15, 2026.
The Tax-Aide program is administered by the AARP Foundation in cooperation with the Internal Revenue Service, the California Franchise Tax Board and Contra Costa County. Volunteers do not need to be AARP members.
| | Contra Costa County Probation Seeks Applicants for Juvenile Justice Coordinating Council | | |
Applications are now open for individuals interested in serving on the 20-member Juvenile Justice Coordinating Council (JJCC). The JJCC is a multi-agency advisory body that contributes to the development and implementation of a countywide juvenile justice plan. It is composed of several critical parts, including, but not limited to, an assessment of existing law enforcement, probation, education, mental health, health, social services, drugs, alcohol, and youth resources, which specifically target both at-promise as well as system-involved youth, and their families.
The JJCC will also coordinate the work of governmental and non-governmental organizations engaged in activities designed to reduce the incidence of juvenile crime and delinquency in the greater community. Further, the JJCC will develop information and intelligence sharing systems to ensure county actions are fully coordinated and equipped to provide data and appropriate outcome measures.
The following position is vacant and will be held for a two-year term:
One (1) At-Large Community Representative seat, residing or working within Contra Costa County.
Applications are due by 5 PM Friday, October 3rd. All applicants who submit by the deadline will be invited to the public interview process conducted by the Public Protection Committee on October 20th. Selected applicants will be submitted for the Board of Supervisors approval on their November 4th meeting agenda.
Click here to apply
To read more on the Juvenile Justice Coordinating Council visit CCProbation.
| | To learn more about Contra Costa Health Department and services provided visit CCHealth.org. | |
AB109 CAB Looking for Members from Central County!
The Community Advisory Board (CAB) for AB 109 Public Realignment was established by the Community Corrections Partnership (CCP) Executive Committee in December 2012 to provide input on community needs; assess implementation of the realignment plan; review data on realignment outcomes; advise the CCP on community engagement strategies; offer recommendations for ongoing realignment planning; advise County agencies regarding programs for implementation in the County; and encourage outcomes that are consistent with the County’s Reentry Strategic Plan.
The CAB is composed of Members with expertise in workforce development, behavioral health issues, post-release reentry services, services for reentering women, criminal and drug court, crime survivors, domestic violence prevention, adult education within a correctional setting, law and policy related to issues of the formerly incarcerated, and anyone interested in public safety issues. All CAB members either live or work in Contra Costa County.
Meetings are the 2nd Thursday of each month from 10am to 12pm at the Probation Department: 50 Douglas Drive, Second Floor, Martinez.
For more information and the application, click here.
| | District 2 Volunteer Opportunities | | |
Alamo Municipal Advisory Committee - Youth Representative Seat and Alternate Seat
To advise on issues and concerns related to services provided by the County or other local agencies located within Alamo, which includes parks & recreation, lighting & landscaping, land use, code enforcement, public safety, and transportation. For more information go to ContraCosta-Alamo.
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County Service Area P-2A (Blackhawk) Citizen Advisory Committee - Alternate Seat (Blackhawk residents only)
The P-2A advises the Board of Supervisors on the needs of the Blackhawk community for extended police services which shall include, but not be limited to, enforcement of the State Vehicle Code, crime prevention, litter control, and other issues. Police Advisory Committee meetings are open to the public and are held on the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 6PM, Blackhawk County Club, Lakeside Room, 599 Lakeside Drive, Danville.
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Measure X Community Advisory Board - Alternate Seat
Supervisor Andersen is looking for an individual from the Lamorinda Area who represents broad and diverse voices and perspectives to fill the District 2 Alternate Seat. To be considered for this seat, candidates must either live or work in District 2. The Measure X Community Advisory Board currently meets quarterly.
Measure X is a countywide 20-year, ½ cent sales tax approved by Contra Costa County voters on November 3, 2020. Collection of the tax began on April 1, 2021. The ballot measure language stated that the intent of Measure X is “to keep Contra Costa’s regional hospital open and staffed; fund community health centers, emergency response; support crucial safety-net services; invest in early childhood services; protect vulnerable populations; and for other essential county services.”
To learn more about the Measure X Advisory Body visit click here.
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