Grade Road Improvement Project - Phase 1.
5. Designate the Director, Department of Public Works, as the County Officer responsible
for administering the construction contract in accordance with Board Policy F-41, Public
Works Construction Contracts.
EQUITY IMPACT STATEMENT
The County of San Diego is committed to supporting a transportation network that is safe and
accessible for all users and modes of travel. The Cole Grade Road Improvement Project supports
equitable mobility by improving access and safety for motorists, pedestrians, bicyclists, and
people with disabilities in the community of Valley Center. Phase 1 improvements will add
continuous bicycle lanes, pedestrian pathways, and upgraded Americans with Disabilities Act
(ADA)-compliant facilities to enhance connectivity and safety for all users. The Department of
Public Works (DPW) considers community health, safety, and accessibility indicators to ensure
that transportation investments benefit all residents. The proposed improvements will provide
safer, more equitable transportation options for residents, including children, older adults, and
people with mobility challenges.
SUSTAINABILITY IMPACT STATEMENT
The project supports environmental and economic sustainability goals of the County. The project
incorporates stormwater quality improvements for local habitats, consistent with County
standards. Additionally, the project will implement energy-efficient lighting and use recycled
durable pavement materials designed for long-term resiliency. Asphalt concrete and aggregate
base is typically composed of at least 25% recycled aggregate saving thousands of tons of
aggregate each year and supporting the County’s sustainability goal to reduce pollution and waste
through recycling. Together, these features will help extend the roadway’s service life, reduce
maintenance needs, and support safe, efficient travel for all users in the Valley Center
community.
FISCAL IMPACT
Funds for this request are partially included in the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Operational Plan in the
Department of Public Works, Road Fund. If approved, this request will result in additional costs
and revenue of $23,250,000 related to recommendation 2, for total construction costs of
$27,250,000, including contingency. The funding sources are Transnet ($16,000,000), available
prior year General Fund fund balance ($1,000,000), bond proceeds ($4,000,000), San Diego Gas
& Electric Transmission ($2,300,000), San Diego Gas & Electric 20A Program ($2,050,000),
AT&T ($450,000), Mediacom ($450,000) and Valley Center Municipal Water District
($1,000,000). There will be no change in net General Fund costs and no additional staff years.
BUSINESS IMPACT STATEMENT
This project will improve the condition of the road which will facilitate the transit of goods and
ease movement to jobs, schools, shopping and other services. County of San Diego construction
contracts are also publicly advertised and competitively bid and help stimulate the local
economy. All workers employed on public works projects must be paid prevailing wages
determined by the California Department of Industrial Relations, according to the type of work
and location of the project. Construction is administered in conformance with federal standards
for labor practices, wage requirements, safety standards, the County of San Diego’s Working
Families Ordinance and are subject to ongoing reporting and verification of compliance with
these federal provisions. Construction activities may cause temporary traffic delays or limited
access for businesses and residents along Cole Grade Road during work hours. The Department