Garin to Pleasanton Ridge Public Access Project

The Garin to Pleasanton Ridge Public Access Project, managed by the East Bay Regional Park District, aims to establish a regional trail connecting Garin and Pleasanton Ridge Regional Parks through the former Chouinard and Owen properties in Union City and unincorporated Alameda County. The scope of work includes the construction of approximately one-half mile of new multi-use trail, the realignment of a portion of the Stonybrook Trail, and the provision of public access along selected existing ranch roads. Key infrastructure developments include a new public trailhead and staging area at the Chouinard property, which requires the removal of existing buildings, the installation of four seasonal tributary crossings, and the creation of an at-grade pedestrian crossing of Palomares Road. Additional site improvements involve slope stabilization features, retaining walls, and ADA-compliant facilities, including a single-stall vault toilet, one accessible parking space, and compliant paths of travel. The project is subject to strict environmental and engineering standards, requiring adherence to the District's Trail Construction and Modification Best Management Practices to ensure proper drainage, erosion control, and fire safety. Environmental reviews under CEQA, including an Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration, have determined that impacts on biological, cultural, and aesthetic resources are mitigated to a less-than-significant level. Construction must also comply with the General Construction Permit and include the implementation of a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan. The project is coordinated by Principal Planner Kim Thai and involves oversight from various trustee agencies, including the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.