Honoring Women in Contra Costa | | |
International Women’s Day will be celebrated in Contra Costa County at the Board of Supervisors meeting on March 17th, recognizing the achievements, leadership, and contributions of women across our county.
The morning's keynote address will be given by former County Supervisor Sunne McPeak. The Contra Costa Commission for Women and Girls will be recognizing the National Council of Negro Women, Alameda Section, with their President Aisha Willams, who will share a few words on behalf of NCNW.
Each Supervisor has selected outstanding women in their district to
honor and recognize. ⭐
District 1 – Supervisor John Gioia: Patricia Durham
District 2 – Supervisor Candace Andersen: Kathy Chiverton
District 4 – Supervisor Ken Carlson: Cathy McRoberts
District 5 – Supervisor Shanelle Scales-Preston: Nancy Parent
District 3 – Supervisor Diane Burgis: Janet Frazier & Debbie Toth
The event will bring together residents, leaders, and advocates to honor the impact women make in Contra Costa and beyond.
To stay up to date on county events visit contracosta.ca.gov.
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New Traffic Signal Coming to Mt. Diablo Scenic Blvd
& Diablo/Blackhawk Rd.
Starting Monday, March 16th, Contra Costa County Public Works will install a new traffic signal at the intersection of Mt. Diablo Scenic Boulevard and Diablo/Blackhawk Road. This project is being done in partnership with Davidon Homes, DeSilva Gates, and MCH. Work will take place Monday through Friday from 7 AM to 5 PM. The anticipated project completion date is June 3rd.
The project replaces the existing three-way stop with a traffic signal and adds a dedicated right-turn lane from southbound Mt. Diablo Scenic Boulevard onto westbound Diablo Road. Lane closures will be in place 9 AM to 2:30 PM, drivers should plan for 5-10 minute delays.
These improvements are funded jointly by Davidon Homes, the Town of Danville, and Contra Costa County.
| | To read full Press Release visit HERE. | | |
Innovation on Tour at Anthro Energy
This past week, Supervisor Andersen joined Marilyn Ezzy-Ashcraft, Mayor of Alameda, for a tour of Anthro Energy, an innovative battery technology company based in Alameda.
During the visit, the group learned about Anthro Energy’s cutting-edge work developing advanced electrolyte materials designed to improve the durability, stability, and safety of next-generation batteries. The company’s technology focuses on strengthening the internal chemistry of batteries so they can better withstand physical stress, reduce the risk of failure, and maintain performance over longer periods of use.
Anthro Energy’s work has important implications for a wide range of applications, including consumer electronics, electric vehicles, and energy storage systems. By improving the resilience and safety of batteries, the company is helping address one of the key challenges in the transition to cleaner energy technologies.
Supervisor Andersen appreciated the opportunity to see firsthand the innovative work being done locally and to learn how companies like Anthro Energy are contributing to advances in battery development in the region. The visit also highlighted the important role that East Bay companies play in supporting innovation, sustainability, and economic growth across the Bay Area.
| | Pictured with Supervisor Andersen are Qudus Lawal, Head of Government Affairs for Anthro, Maya Prasad, Government Programs Associate and City of Alameda Mayor Ezzy-Ashcraft. | | To learn more about Anthro's technology visit HERE. | |
Search & Rescue Training in Lafayette March 14th
A training exercise is scheduled for Saturday, March 14th from 8 AM to 2:30 PM in downtown Lafayette involving approximately 60 members of the Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff Search and Rescue Team (SAR).
As part of the scheduled training, community members may notice uniformed SAR members moving around the Mt. Diablo Boulevard business district and on the Lafayette Ridge Trail in Briones Regional Park. Search team members will be visiting businesses, introducing themselves, and letting the businesses know that this is a training.
The training exercise will be a missing persons search in an urban setting. This is just an exercise and will not use the Community Warning System (CWS) or other emergency alert systems.
If you see the team during the exercise, give them a wave and thank them for their dedication to keeping our community safe! These volunteers donate countless hours to help others when they are most vulnerable.
If you have questions on Saturday about the exercise, call the Lafayette Police non-emergency dispatch line at (925) 284-5010.
Click here to learn more about SAR
Click here to sign up for the Community Warning System (CWS)
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Court Seeks Public Input Through Strategic Plan Survey
The Contra Costa County Superior Court is inviting residents, court users, and community organizations to share their feedback through a public online survey to help shape the Court’s 2027–2029 Strategic Plan.
The survey will be available March 9th through March 20th and will gather input on topics such as court operations, jury service, and access to court services. Feedback from the community plays an important role in helping the Court identify priorities and set goals for improving public service.
All residents and court users in Contra Costa County are encouraged to participate and share their experiences to help strengthen transparency, efficiency, and access to justice.
To participate in the survey visit HERE.
| | Family Justice Center Presents International Women's Day! | | To learn more about the Family Justice Center and their programs visit HERE. | |
Plumbers & Steamfitters Apprenticeship Applications Available
Plumbers Local 159 was chartered into the United Association on April 3rd, 1915 in Martinez, California. Almost 100 years later, the offices are still headquartered in Martinez, which include a union hiring hall, Journeyman and Apprentice Training facility and assembly hall. With over 500 members and over 100 union contractors, they provide skilled plumbers, steamfitters, HVAC Refrigeration technicians and service plumbers for work in Contra Costa County and beyond.
Plumbing, Steamfitting, and Welding Apprenticeship Application period is open from March 30th through April 10th. For more information, visit UA Local 159.
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Girls Empowerment Camp Ignites
Confidence and Leadership
The Contra Costa County Fire Protection District will host its Girls Empowerment Camp May 2nd-3rd, giving young women the opportunity to explore careers in the fire service while building confidence, teamwork, and leadership skills.
Participants spend the day learning directly from firefighters and first responders, gaining hands-on experience with equipment, rescue techniques, and emergency response training. The camp also provides a chance for participants to hear personal stories from women currently serving in the fire service, offering valuable insight into the profession and the many career paths within public safety.
Programs like this help inspire the next generation of leaders by encouraging young women across Contra Costa County to consider careers in firefighting and emergency services while strengthening their sense of empowerment and community connection.
To learn more about Girls Empowerment Camp visit HERE.
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Congressional Art Competition
Each year, Congressman DeSaulnier hosts the 10th Congressional District High School Art Competition and Exhibition. The exhibition is a judged art show, open to high school students from public and private schools in the Tenth Congressional District of California, as well as high school students home-schooled within the district.
The exhibition will be displayed publicly and will culminate in a closing awards event. The winning artwork of our district's competition will be displayed for one year in the U.S. Capitol. The exhibit in Washington will include the winning artwork from all participating districts from around the country. Additionally, the winner will receive two round-trip airline tickets to join the exhibition in Washington, D.C. The winning artwork will also be featured on House.gov's Congressional Art Competition page.
Submissions will be accepted until April 9th at 5:00 PM PT
For more information and the rules, visit Congressman DeSaulnier.
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Senator Tim Grayson to Host FREE Senior Scam Stopper Seminar
Senator Tim Grayson and Contractors State License Board invite you to attend a FREE Senior Scam Stopper Seminar. Panelists include representatives from Department of Financial Protection and Innovation and the California Department of Insurance.
Tuesday, March 17, 10am - 12pm
Center for Community Arts
111 N. Widget Lane, Walnut Creek, CA 94598
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Contra Costa County Public Works to Perform Delineator Replacement Work on San Pablo Dam Road
The Contra Costa County Public Works Department will replace delineatorsto enhance safety on San Pablo Dam Road, between Tri Lane and Wildcat Canyon Road, starting Monday, March 23, 2026, through Thursday, March 26, 2026, barring unforeseen circumstances. The work will occur from 8:00 a.m. through 3:30 p.m., weather permitting.
The work will be scheduled to minimize impacts to commute traffic. Message boards will be posted to advise drivers of the scheduled work. A pilot car will be used to direct traffic through the work area. Drivers can expect delays of 10-15 minutes and are encouraged to use alternative routes.
| To read the full Press Release visit HERE. | | Board of Supervisors to Celebrate 4th Annual Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Month May 12th | | |
Join the Board at 1025 Escobar Street in Martinez to enjoy the celebration.
To keep up to date on County Events visit HERE.
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Blackhawk Plaza FAQ's
Residents may have heard about lawsuits, foreclosures, and financial issues concerning Blackhawk Plaza. The County is not involved in these legal matters and does not have “legal standing” to be part of these lawsuits.
On February 3, 2026, an Orange County Superior Court Judge appointed a Receiver to oversee the operations of Blackhawk Plaza. This is very welcome news. The objective of the receiver is to stabilize operations while preserving and maximizing the value of Blackhawk Plaza. The Receiver and his team are currently evaluating the operational, financial, and physical condition of the property, including assessing deferred maintenance items, reviewing vendor relationships, and implementing initial steps to stabilize day-to-day operations.
To date, the County has not received any applications to build housing or otherwise redevelop Blackhawk Plaza. It is highly unlikely that this would occur when lawsuits are pending and the property is under the control of the Receiver.
However, if we do receive an application or learn of a change in ownership, we will provide updates in these FAQ’s.
You can view Blackhawk FAQ's HERE.
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Daytime Full Closures of Stone Valley Road On-Ramp to Southbound 680 in Alamo
Monday Through Friday 10am to 6pm
Caltrans will continue full closures of the Stone Valley Road on-ramp to southbound 680 in Alamo, Monday through Friday from 10 AM to 6 PM through August 2026.
These closures are necessary to support ongoing fiber optic installation, ramp metering system improvements, and widening of the Stone Valley Road on-ramp. Work includes reconstruction of the retaining wall and soundwall (Tentative completion Summer 2026) as part of continued infrastructure improvements along the I-680 corridor in Contra Costa County.
Detour Information:
During the temporary closure of Stone Valley Road on-ramp:
Left or Right Turn from Stone Valley Road to NB Danville Road
- Right Turn to EB Livorna
- Enter SB 680 On-Ramp
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The Contra Costa County Probation Department
is Hiring!
The Contra Costa County Probation Department is now accepting applications for the classifications of Deputy Probation Officer I and Deputy Probation Officer II.
Mission:
An unwavering commitment to justice, even in the face of adversity, an ethical application of the law, and a proven approach to rehabilitation.
Vision:
A talented Probation team working collaboratively to create opportunities for those we serve to experience a positive outcome that strengthens the individual and makes the community safe.
Values:
Integrity | Equity | Excellence
If you are interested in joining the Probation Team, and would like more information, click on these links for more information:
Deputy Probation Officer I and Deputy Probation Officer II.
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FREE Tax Help through United Way Bay Area!
Tax season is here, and free help is available for those who need it. Community members can receive FREE tax preparation assistance from trained volunteers at locations throughout the Bay Area. These services help ensure you claim valuable tax credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit, which can significantly increase your refund.
Appointments are available in person, and many residents may also qualify to file their taxes online for free.
To schedule an appointment at a nearby location, call 211 or visit United Way Bay Area to learn more and find a site near you. Taking advantage of this free service can save money on tax preparation and help ensure your return is filed accurately.
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FREE VIRTUAL HOME & WORM COMPOSTING WORKSHOPS
The Contra Costa County Department of Conservation & Development invite you to join their free virtual composting workshops to learn how to reduce waste and create nutrient-rich compost at home.
All residents are welcome to join any or all of the virtual workshops. Subjects include home composting as well as how to start and maintain a worm bin.
2026 Workshop Schedule
March 28 - Home Composting
May 2 - Vermicomposting (Worm Composting)
October 24 - Home Composting
December 5 - Vermicomposting (Worm Composting)
Workshops will be held live on Zoom. A Zoom link will be sent the week before the event.
Click the desired workshop date above to register via Eventbrite
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District 2 Volunteer Opportunities
Contra Costa County Planning Commission (District 2 seat available)
Responsibilities include: Exercise all powers and duties prescribed by law, including consideration of matters referred to it by the zoning administrator except those powers and duties specifically reserved or delegated to other divisions of the planning agency; Initiate preparation of general plans, specific plans, regulations, programs and legislation to implement the planning power of the county; Be generally responsible for advising the legislative body of matters relating to planning; Be the advisory agency as designated in Title 9 of this code for the purpose of passing on subdivisions; Hear and decide all applications or requests for proposed entitlements estimated to generate one hundred or more peak hour trips unless otherwise provided by this code or board order; Hear and make recommendations regarding proposed development agreements when it is hearing the related project applications being processed concurrently with the development agreements.
Submit an Application.
Click here for information on volunteering for an advisory board
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County Wide Volunteer Opportunities
Civil Grand Jury
Contra Costa County Superior Court is now accepting applications for Civil Grand Jury service for FY 26-27. The Civil Grand Jury is made up of 19 members who serve for one year, July through June, to monitor, review and report on city and county governments, special districts, and school districts.
Every effort is made to ensure that the Grand Jury reflects the makeup of the residents of the county. Individuals selected for service will be expected to be available from June 15th to June 18th and June 22nd to June 26th to attend an orientation where they will meet with department heads, become familiar with their colleagues, learn about juror responsibilities and procedures, and select committees on which they will serve. Grand jurors must be United State citizens, 18 years of age or older, who have been a resident of Contra Costa County for at least one year prior to selection. Citizens who work should apply only if they can be released from their jobs to perform their jury duties. Deadline to Submit is April 3rd. Grand Jury Application.
Submit an Application.
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