Title
Consideration of Adopting a Resolution Prepared by the Mayor that Affirms the City’s Commitment to Reopening Lake Chabot Road to Full Two-Way Vehicular Traffic
Staffreport
SUMMARY
Per a request from the Mayor, City staff presents for the City Council’s consideration the attached draft Resolution that, if adopted by majority vote of the Council, would affirm the City Council’s commitment to reopening Lake Chabot Road to full two‑way public vehicular use and directing staff to pursue funding, evaluate repair alternatives, conduct necessary engineering studies, and provide regular progress updates to City Council Facilities Committee.
BACKGROUND
Lake Chabot Road historically served as a transportation connection between San Leandro and Castro Valley, and benefited residents of the Bay-O-Vista neighborhood. Since its closure in January 2023 due to severe storm-related roadway failures, community residents have expressed ongoing concerns about emergency egress capacity during wildfire events, and also have highlighted Bay-O-Vista’s designation as a high fire hazard area.
MAYOR’S ANALYSIS
The resolution identifies reopening Lake Chabot Road as critical to community health and safety. It articulates the City Council’s intent to restore two-way vehicular access once repairs are deemed safe and feasible.
Key elements of the draft Resolution include:
• Intent to Reopen: Reaffirms the public safety value of a two-way evacuation route and directs staff to restore access as soon as practical.
• Funding: Authorizes the City Manager to pursue all eligible federal, state, regional, and local funding programs, including emergency and grant opportunities.
• Repair Alternatives: Requires evaluation of both short-term stabilization options and long-term permanent repairs, including the use of $1.5 million that was secured through the State Budget Act of 2026.
• Engineering Evaluation: Directs staff to conduct a comprehensive geotechnical assessment if necessary to determine appropriate repair methods.
• Progress Reporting: Requires regular updates at least every 120 days to the City Council Facilities Committee.
Adoption of the resolution provides staff with formal authorization and direction to advance repair planning, funding acquisition, engineering analysis, and recurring communication to the City Council.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no immediate fiscal impact associated with adoption of the resolution; however,
repair costs will depend on engineering assessments and selected alternatives. It is anticipated that future actions may be required by the City Council following a more detailed review of funding options and fiscal analyses.
ATTACHMENTS
A: Draft Resolution
PREPARED BY: Eric Engelbart, Deputy City Manager, City Manager’s office