Vasco Road Safety Improvement

The Vasco Road Safety Improvement Project Phase II, identified as solicitation CP#09-55, is a public works initiative managed by the Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development and the California Transportation Commission. The project focuses on enhancing safety along a 2.5-mile stretch of rural Vasco Road between Camino Diablo Road and the southern entrance to Los Vaqueros Reservoir. This area has a documented history of high traffic volumes and high-speed incidents. Key construction elements include the installation of a concrete median barrier, road shoulders meeting current design standards, the connection of two southbound truck passing lanes, and two bridge widenings. Additional infrastructure includes drainage systems, retaining walls, signing, striping, turn pockets, guardrail adjustments, and wildlife crossing features. The project incorporates several design updates to meet current standards, including redesigned wildlife undercrossings, modifications to the bridge design over Brushy Creek, the addition of stormwater treatment facilities, and adjustments to grading and wildlife exclusion fencing. The project also involves relocating an East Bay Regional Parks District access easement. Environmental compliance has been managed under the California Environmental Quality Act, with a Mitigated Negative Declaration and associated addenda confirming that the modifications do not result in significant environmental impacts. The project was approved in mid-2026, with a Notice of Determination filed on August 26, 2026, confirming the adoption of mitigation measures and a monitoring plan.