Hon. Mayor and Members of the City Council:

This is the report for the week ending November 19th, 2021.

1.    Meeting Notes

The next Regular City Council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, November 23rd, 2021. Closed Session begins at 5:00 PM, followed by the Special Meeting of Richmond Housing Authority at 6:25 PM. The Regular Meeting of the Richmond City Council begins at 6:30 PM and the agenda may be found by clicking this link.

2.    Upcoming Events

Arts and Culture Commission introduces Richmond’s New Poet Laureate

The Richmond Arts and Culture Commission is proud to introduce the 2021-2023 Poet Laureate David Flores on November 19, 2021, at the CoBiz Open Mic.  from 7:00 - 9:00 PM. David will be joined by four Bay Area Poet Laureate's from Oakland, San Francisco, El Cerrito and Vallejo.

For tickets use the Eventbrite link found below.  Online Advance Tickets are $5.00 plus $2.00 service charge and $10.00 day of event.  No tickets will be sold at the door.  Limited seating, masks required.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/open-talent-night-every-3rd-friday-tickets-168151372281

RichmondWORKS On-Site Recruitment Event with Express Employment Professionals!

Representatives from Express Employment Professionals will be on-site at the RichmondWORKS office to conduct hiring interviews for various positions. Open positions include, Production, Warehouse, and Administrative; full-time and part-time positions. The on-site recruitment events will be held Tuesday November 23rd (10:00 AM – 12:00 PM) at 330 – 25th Street; Richmond, CA 94804. Please come dressed to impress and bring a copy of your resume. Qualifications: ability to provide a minimum of 2 years of verifiable work references. For more information, please visit the vendor’s website at: www.expresspros.com/RichmondCA; or contact Monica Castrillo at mcastrillo@richmondworks.org.

Holiday Tree Lighting Event

Join us for a holiday tree lighting. The event starts at 5:30 P.M. We hope to see you!

Reimagining Public Safety: Community Conversations

The Reimagining Public Safety Community Task Force presents Community Conversations to update the community on the status of implementation of the new programs approved by the City Council as recommended by the Task Force.

Upcoming topics and dates include:

• Wednesday, December 15, 2021, 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Community Crisis Response Team
• Wednesday, January 19, 2022, 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Office of Neighborhood Safety

Each Community Conversation can be accessed by the same Zoom meeting link:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86844995369?pwd=ejZsZ2lhV3N0SUo4bnlmbFEwV1lCQT09
Passcode: TASKFORCE
Or One tap mobile :
    US: +13462487799,,86844995369#  or +17207072699,,86844995369#
Or Telephone:
    Dial(for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location):
        US: +1 346 248 7799  or +1 720 707 2699  or +1 253 215 8782  or +1 312 626 6799  or +1 646 558 8656  or +1 301 715 8592
Webinar ID: 868 4499 5369
International numbers available: https://us06web.zoom.us/u/kdtDXEuLQO

For more information on the Reimagining Public Safety Community Task Force, visit the City webpage at: www.tinyurl.com/RPSCTF

 Exhibitor Applications Open for the Craneway Craft Fair- 50th Annual KPFA Holiday Benefit

The City Manager’s Office, Economic Development, Environmental and Health Initiatives Division encourages Richmond artists, craftspeople, non-profits, makers, and fair traders to consider applying for the Craneway Craft Fair- 50th Annual KPFA Holiday Benefit. Applicants are encouraged to apply early and read the Exhibitor FAQ before applying. The application can be found at, www.cranewaycraftfair.com/artcraftapplication.

The Craneway Craft Fair - 50th Annual KPFA Holiday Benefit will be held on November 27th and 28th from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. For event details visit, www.cranewaycraftfair.com, or follow them on Instagram.

Travel Safe Richmond Virtual Community Open House

Richmond’s approach to improve roadway safety and make it easier to walk and bike! Please join us for a community open house and share your thoughts and concerns about roadway safety in Richmond. We need your input!

Date: Wednesday, December 8, 2021 Time: 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM

Location: Virtual Zoom Meeting
Visit www.TravelSafeRichmond.organd click on the “Events” tab to access the direct link to the meeting

Contact: Lydia Elias, Planner | travelsafe@ci.richmond.ca.us

Viaje Seguro Richmond Reunión Comunitaria Virtual

El Proyecto de la Ciudad de Richmond para mejorar la seguridad vial y hacer que sea más fácil caminar y andar en bicicleta! Únase a nosotros para una reunión comunitaria y comparta sus pensamientos e inquietudes sobre la seguridad vial en Richmond. ¡Necesitamos su Opinión!

Fecha: Miércoles 8 de diciembre de 2021   Hora: 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM

Ubicación: Reunión Virtual por Zoom
Visite www.TravelSafeRichmond.orgy haga clic en “Eventos” para acceder al Enlace directo de la reunión

Contacto: Lydia Elias, Planner | travelsafe@ci.richmond.ca.us

ClimbHire Tech Training Information Presentation

The City Manager’s Office, Economic Development, the Economic Development Working Group, and CoBiz Richmond are excited to announce upcoming informational events by ClimbHire, a technical career training company. ClimbHire trains diverse and determined talent to break into new careers through a 16–30-week online program focused on four distinct tech tracks: customer experience, financial services, Salesforce administration, and Google project management. Throughout each of the four learning tracks, Climbers build community, learn concrete skills, earn respected certification, develop soft skills, prepare for interviews, and successfully navigate a new career.
CoBiz Richmond is partnering with ClimbHire to present three free informational presentations about the ClimbHire experience and benefits. ClimbHire does not require a college degree, and Climbers pay $0 upfront. The information sessions will be held on December 9, and January 13, from 6:00 PM-7:00 PM at CoBiz Richmond (1503 Macdonald Avenue, Suite A, Richmond, CA). You can register for the free events at https://bit.ly/3GNMUQ3 or visit https://www.cobizrichmond.com/.

Candy Cane Basketball Tournament – One Day Only!

Registration is now open! Sign up online at tinyurl.com/richmondrecreation or visit in person for coaches at the Recreation Complex (3230 Macdonald Ave.). Call 510-620-6960 for more information.

3.    City Clerk’s Office

City Of Richmond Redistricting

Visit: http://www.ci.richmond.ca.us/4099/Redistricting-Pre-2021-Census

Public Participation Map Kits are available under the "Draw Map" tab on the webpage. Blank paper maps are available in the lobby of the City Hall Building located at 450 Civic Center Plaza, Richmond. Find your current district using the Interactive Mapping Tool

City of Richmond Redistricting Process

Every ten years, local governments use new census data to redraw their district lines to reflect how local populations have changed. Assembly Bill 849 (2019) requires cities and counties to engage communities in the redistricting process by holding public hearings and/or workshops and doing public outreach, including to non-English-speaking communities.

What is redistricting?

Every ten years, districts must be redrawn so that each district is substantially equal in population. This process, called redistricting, is important in ensuring that each city councilmember represents about the same number of constituents. In Richmond, the City Council is responsible for drawing council districts. Redistricting is done using U.S. Census data, which is released around March 31, 2021. For the City of Richmond, the redistricting process must be completed by April 17, 2022.

Why does redistricting matter to me?

Redistricting determines which neighborhoods and communities are grouped together into a district for purposes of electing a councilmember. 
The City Council will seek input in selecting the next district map for our City Council. You have an opportunity to share with the City Council how you think district boundaries should be drawn to best represent your community. 
You can contact the City Clerk via email to CityClerkDept@ci.richmond.ca.us or at (510) 620-6513 to find out more about how the process works.

What do the existing council districts look like?

You can find a map of the City’s current council districts here: Interactive Mapping Tool

What criteria will our City Council use when drawing district lines?

1.     Federal Laws 
·         Equal Population (based on total population of residents as determined by the most recent federal decennial census and adjusted to reassign incarcerated persons to the last known place of residence)
·         Federal Voting Rights Act
·         No Racial Gerrymandering

2. California Criteria for Cities (to the extent practicable and in the following order of priority)
·         Geographically contiguous (areas that meet only at the points of adjoining corners are not contiguous.  Areas that are separated by water and not connected by a bridge, tunnel, or ferry service are not contiguous.
·         Undivided neighborhoods and “communities of interest” (Socio-economic geographic areas that should be kept together for purposes of its effective and fair representation)
·         Easily identifiable boundaries
·         Compact (Do not bypass one group of people to get to a more distant group of people)
·         Prohibited: “Shall not favor or discriminate against a political party.”

How will our City Council notify the public about redistricting?

The City Council will reach out to local media to publicize the redistricting process. Also, we will make a good faith effort to notify community groups of various kinds about the redistricting process. Our public hearings or workshops will be provided in applicable languages if residents submit a request in advance. The City Council will notify the public about redistricting hearings or workshops, post maps online before adoption, and create a dedicated web page for all relevant information about the redistricting process.

How can I get involved?

The City Council will be holding hearings or workshops to receive public input on where district lines should be drawn. Those hearings or workshops will be held on:

4.    City Manager’s Office, Economic Development

SB 1383 Recycled Paper Content Presentation

On Wednesday, November 17th, the City Manager’s Office, Economic Development and Finance’s Purchasing Division, in collaboration with Staples, the office supply company, presented to the City’s requisition employees on the new SB 1383 paper product procurement requirements. SB 1383 Short-Lived Climate Pollutant Reduction requires City departments starting no later than January 1, 2022, to purchase printer and copy paper that is composed of at least 30% recycled content. Additionally, this state law supports the implementation strategies and policies in the City’s General Plan 2030, Climate Action Plan, and Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Policy.
To learn more about SB 1383, which will affect property owners, organic waste generators, and commercial edible food generators starting January 1, 2022, please visit www.calrecycle.ca.gov/organics/slcp/.

Pacific Community Ventures (PCV)

The City Manager’s Office, Economic Development, the Economic Development Working Group, and Richmond Main Street are excited to share Pacific Community Venture’s (PCV) small business advising and loan opportunities. PCV is a nonprofit community development financial institution (CDFI) committed to addressing the unequal access to mentorship and lack of capital for historically excluded entrepreneurs. Through a unique hybrid “high tech/high touch” programing, PCV combines affordable loans with pro-bono advising and connects businesses and entrepreneurs with advisors from across the country.

There is no minimum credit score for loans, and PCV specializes in working with small business owners who’ve had difficulty accessing capital, like female entrepreneurs, immigrant entrepreneurs, entrepreneurs of color, and borrowers that may have been turned down for SBA or traditional bank loans. PCV also provides impact measurement, evaluation and research, and tools, and small grants to create good-quality jobs that address racial and gender wealth gaps.

For more information, email director@richmondmainstreet.org or visit https://www.pacificcommunityventures.org/get-started/.

Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program

The City Manager’s Office, Economic Development, the Economic Development Working Group, and the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) are pleased to share a small business education and grant opportunity. The Verizon Small Business Digital Ready program offers free online personalized learning modules that can help businesses thrive online, with topics such as search engine optimization, remote work, and finance management. Developed by small businesses, the Small Business Digital Ready program can help small businesses move forward in four ways: personalized learning, expert coaching, peer networking, and incentives.

Business owners and entrepreneurs who complete two free courses or coaching events can apply for a Verizon Small Business Digital Ready $10,000 grant. Applications are now open to register. Verizon login is required. However, it is free to create an account.
To learn more, visit Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program.

Artist Database Form

The City of Richmond Artist Database Form is an opportunity for local artists from all media and genres available for art projects in Richmond to provide their information to the City. If you are a local artist, please fill out this form: City of Richmond Artist Database Form.

Please note: This survey is a public document and the responses are subject to public disclosure under the Public Records Act. In response to a Public Records Request, the City does not disclose personal emails and personal phone numbers. If a Public Records Act Request arises, the City will produce the record but redact the personal information.

The Lab and The Accelerator at ICA

The City Manager's Office, Economic Development is excited to share two ICA grant opportunities: The Accelerator and The Lab. ICA’s mission is to close the racial and gender wealth gap by assisting businesses—owned and operated by people of color and women in particular—with growth acceleration through mentorship and investments. Since 1996, ICA has assisted over 700 entrepreneurs and businesses in need of funding and expansion generate over $1B in revenues. Is your business for profit, located in the Bay Area, focused on strategic growth and been in operation for at least one year? Then these two grant opportunities may be right for your business. The grants are for businesses looking to raise growth capital; hone growth strategy, people strategy and better articulate why you are scalable and investable; or need capital to help achieve your next growth milestone.

• The Lab at ICA is an accelerator program for early stage, high-growth companies looking to strengthen business fundamentals, scale, & get ready for capital. Qualified companies are eligible for up to $50K in investment.
• The Accelerator at ICA is ICA’s flagship program designed for later stage companies looking to implement growth, people, & investment strategies. Qualifying participants are eligible for up to $500K in investment.

Applications are due December 1, 2021 and are reviewed on a rolling basis. Application questions can be sent to hannah@ica.fund.

5.    Internal Services

Finance

Information Technology

Website Statistics

KCRT Datanet For The Week

KCRT TV Channel 28 - New Episodes of Current Programming

New Segment / Series Episode: 

• New episodes of “The Jet Set,” “Eat Well Be Happy,” “Classic Movies,” “Colour in Your Life,” and “Creature Features”
• Multiple new episodes of “Sidewalks Entertainment” during the week
• New Public Service Announcements (PSAs) in High Definition (HD) added to the station’s lineup.

Recent Segments:

• “NewsBytes” Segments: Fire Chief Swearing-In Ceremony, Clean Air Day, National Night Out 2021, Ookwe Park Celebration, Yellow Brick Road, Transit Re-Grand Opening and BOLT Bike Sharing.
• “Your Future, Your Choice: Life after High School,” six short presentations that cover options and resources for four-year colleges, community colleges, and the building trades (video courtesy of Library and Doug Harris).
• Revised edition of GRIP Alternatives No-Cost Solar Workshop.
• Hacienda Groundbreaking
• Diversity Flag Raising
• RPD: Stop the Hate
• Redesign Shields-Reid Park
• Hope and Healing

You may find the full schedule at http://www.ci.richmond.ca.us/3176/Schedule

6.    Library and Community Services

Community Services (Recreation)

Winter Camp 2021

Join Recreation staff for a fun winter break camp! Join in for arts & crafts, games, activities, cooking, and more!

Register online here or call 510-620-6793 for more information.

We’re Hiring Tennis Instructors!

Join the City of Richmond family! This position is housed in the Community Services Department, Recreation Division. More details and application are available at https://www.ci.richmond.ca.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=2099.

Aquatics Update

Adult swimmers who want to work out with a group, improve their stamina or refine their strokes with the aid of a swim coach, can join the Richmond Plunge Masters which has workouts multiple times per week at the Richmond Plunge. This program is run through the partner organization, Richmond Swims. The Richmond Swims website has contact information. Swimmers are also welcome to come for drop-in swims, regardless of ability, any time the Plunge or Richmond Swim Center are open (see schedule for info). Please note that proof of vaccine or negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours is required to enter.

Hula Classes

Hula is a Polynesian dance form accompanied by chant or song. It was developed in the Hawaiian Islands by the Polynesians who originally settled there. The hula dramatizes or portrays the words of the oli or mele in a visual dance form.

Would you like to learn more about Hula? Hula meets on Friday from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM The cost for each class is $2.00. Join us at the Senior Center, 2525 Macdonald Avenue, Richmond, CA 94804. Call 510-620-6793 for more information or register online. Check out a snippet of our class on Facebook!

It’s Showtime!

October was full of surprises for the Recreation Division. Nevin Community Center participants took a stab at an early pumpkin carving activity, an animation workshop featuring playdough ghosts and aliens, and creative skull cake decorating. Staff also presented the Dollhouse of Doom on ZOOM show on October 29, 2021. Hosted by Nevin’s little resident ghost Mischievia, and her friend, Beetle Guy, participants were treated to monster movie trailers and classic toy commercials. Ghost hosts also showed off some of their own scary monster toys.

Some items and performances never made it to the ZOOM show but need to be mentioned.

After School participants work diligently to complete a stylish Haunted House miniature, meant to be the home of Mischievia

CSD Budget Analyst was kind enough to lend her presence during her lunch time, to read a cool story for the ZOOM viewers during the show. Richmond Recreation Complex (RRC) segment never made it to this years Dollhouse of DOOM show but Big Monster Huggs to those who contributed to our spook show!  Hopefully this lost scene will be featured in next year’s October event.

After School Program kids practiced very hard to perform their version of Michael Jackson’s
“THRILLER”. This segment never made it to this year’s Dollhouse of DOOM show but Big Monster Huggs to those who contributed to our spook show! Hopefully this lost scene will be featured in next year’s October event.

Halloween themed animation class. The set of Dollhouse of DOOM was decorated by Nevin staff and participants

Nevin staff showed kids how to creat Ectoplasim without getting SLIMED!

Baking a skull cake and creatively decorating it to celebrate “Día de los Muertos” (DAY of the DEAD).Halloween wouldn’t be complete without the traditional carving out a pumpkin! Things are looking great for the rest of 2021 and beyond!

Employment and Training

RichmondWORKS, America’s Job Center of California (AJCC)

The RichmondWORKS, America’s Job Center of California (AJCC) is located at 330 – 25th Street, Richmond, Ca. 94804 is open for various career and job search services by appointment. Career Planners are available to provide weekly one-on-one career counseling sessions, every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday by appointment.  Call RichmondWORKS now at (510) 307-8014 to make your appointment for job search and career counseling assistance.

Optical Assistant Training Opportunity!

Discover a career that combines health care, technology, and fashion – and is in demand. The Optical Assistant Training Program is designed to help you prepare for an entry-level position as an optical technician or lab technician. The Dynamic class curriculum prepares you for the National Opticianry Competency Exam administered by the American Board of Opticianry. Orientation is scheduled for Wednesday, December 8, 2021 (2:30PM-3:30PM) via zoom. For more information, and to register the orientation, click here: Optical Assistant Orientation.

English Language Learner Grant Program

The RichmondWORKS English Language Learner (ELL) Grant Program offers Richmond and West Contra Costa County residents, who speak English as a second language, the chance to work to receive training and support required to prepare for quality jobs with sustainable wages. For more information regarding the ELL program, please contact a Program Navigator at (510) 307-8045 or email: egarcia@richmondworks.org.

Prison to Employment Career Training Program

RichmondWORKS Prison to Employment (P2E) grant program will provide training, education and career opportunities to individuals who are or have been justice involved. Supportive services are available to ensure individuals receive the necessary resources and supports for success in attaining permanent employment. For more information regarding this grant program, please call 510-307-8014 or contact Lorena Rodriguez at lrodriguez@richmondworks.org.

YouthWORKS – Work Experience and Training Opportunities for Richmond Residents

Richmond YouthWORKS has several programs to provide Richmond youth, ages 18-24, with job search, work experience, and training assistance. For more information, visit the YouthWORKS Homepage, Facebook, or call 510-412-2044.

Did COVID-19 Impact Your Employment?

Richmond YouthWORKS is accepting applications from Richmond youth, ages 18-24, who are facing barriers to employment due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). YouthWORKS is here to help young adults get back to work as quickly as possible and overcome barriers to employment. Services include essential skills workshops, workforce education, Career Pathway Training, and Paid Internships. For more information, including additional programs offered through YouthWORKS Homepage, Facebook, Instagram, call 510-412-2044 or email: Chernandez@richmondworks.org

Office Administration Internship Position Available at YouthWORKS!

YouthWORKS is accepting applications from Richmond youth, ages 18-24, who are interested in learning new skills while assisting with general office management. Starting pay is $15.21 an hour; 30+ hours per week. For more information, contact Yesenia Melara at: YMelara@richmondworks.org or call (510) 412-2044.

The RichmondBUILD and YouthBUILD Construction Training Programs

Continues to accept applications for their construction pre-apprenticeship training programs. Interested applicants may sign up at the RichmondWORKS America’s Job Center of California (AJCC), located at 330 - 25th Street, Richmond CA 94804; visit the RichmondBUILD website or call (510) 621-1780 for more information

Local Employment and Training Opportunities Include:

East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) has several job opportunities. The following is a list of recruitments that are currently open. For more detailed information and application materials, please visit EBMUD JOBS today!

Ø  RichmondWORKS has an Internship Opportunity, Case Management Navigator, available for the right candidate!  This position is a temporary (18 month) paid learning experience provided through State/Federal grant programs. Hours: 30-40 hours/ week.  Salary:  $21-24/hr. DOE. This position is open until filled. For more information, please contact Monica Castrillo at mcastrillo@richmondworks.org.

Ø  Come join the future of food at Sweetgreen! Sweetgreen (SG) is a new restaurant opening in Greenbrae. There are 7 restaurants opening throughout the Bay Area. Wages start at $18.00 per hour. Entry level positions available to fill immediately. SG will provide hands-on training, as well as online learning for all team members. There are also opportunities for advancement.  For more information and to apply online, visit their website at: sweetgreen.com/careers. You may also apply by texting “sweetlife” to 97211.   

Ø  Contra Costa County Contra Costa County has a FREE Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Training Program Richmond & Contra Costa County Workforce Development Boards, in conjunction with Contra Costa College and the Emergency Medical Service Corp of Alameda County, will be presenting a FREE 4-month training program for eligible participants. For more information, please contact Cinthia Hernandez at: chernandez@richmondworks.org; or call: 510-307-8019.

Ø  Connect to an MCE Internship!  Marin Clean Energy (MCE’s) internship program is intended to be a paid, part-time, learning and development opportunity for highly motivated individuals who are interested in exploring a career in the renewable energy industry. Internship include: 10-20 hours per week - $19.00 per hour, 3-6-month remote assignments. To apply, send a resume to jobs@mcecleanenergy.org. Got questions, contact Carol at cdorsett@mcecleanenergy.org.  Visit our website at https://www.mcecleanenergy.org/ and our LinkedIn Life page at https://www.linkedin.com/company/mcecleanenergy/life/.

Ø  AMAZON has Higher Sign-On Bonuses, Plus More Hourly Pay! Real benefits include: Sign-on bonuses up to $1,000; Competitive pay up to $19.75 per hour; Flexible shifts and schedules; Healthcare, 401k, and paid time off; pre-paid tuition options; and, career advancement in high-demand fields. For more information, visit www.amazon.com/sfhourlyjobs to learn more, or text SFNOW1 to 77088 to sign up for alerts from Amazon.  Amazon is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

Equal opportunity employer/programs
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities

Library Updates

Citizen Science Kits

Go for a walk and conduct scientific research at the same time!  The Library’s Citizen Science kits work with various SciStarter projects to help you contribute to scientific research.  Learn more at www.ci.richmond.ca.us/4121

Discover & Go

Need a destination to get out of the house as the days get shorter and wetter?  Through Discover & Go, the Richmond Public Library offers free and low-cost passes to museums and other cultural institutions.  Log in with your library card at richmondlibrary.discoverandgo.net to discover where you can go!

Tutoring Help — For students in kindergarten through 12th grade!

Don’t forget, you can get homework help from live tutors in real time!  All you need is    your library card to set up an account at Richmond Public Library HelpNow--Online Tutoring or visit our homepage, www.richmondlibrary.org

Help is available in Spanish or English. Just indicate the grade level and subject of your homework to be matched with a knowledgeable tutor. If you need assistance getting started, call us in the Children’s Department at 510-620-6557.

7.    Public Works

Abatement

Abatement staff in collaboration with the Police Department’s Parking Enforcement division abated debris from homeless encampments located at South 49th Street and Seaport Avenue. We hosted the annual Fairmede/Hilltop Neighborhood clean-up event where staff provided assistance to 40 seniors as well as disabled citizens to abate weeds and debris from the Richmond Parkway, removed illegally dumped debris and graffiti from various locations.

Neighborhood Clean-Up/Seniors Assistance

Homeless Encampment Removal

Richmond Parkway Maintenance

Graffiti/Illegal Dumping Removal

Building Maintenance

Stationary Engineers performed daily pool maintenance, daily Civic Center Plaza boiler inspections, replaced parts on a heater, fixed apparatus doors, and cleared a clogged sewer line at Fire Station #68, cleared clogged sink at Fire Station #62, replaced pressure switch on the air conditioning unit on 450 Civic Center Plaza, fixed leaks on coil valve on the 2nd Floor of City Hall, assisted with a burst pipe at the Art Center, and installed cup holders at the Swim Center.

Pressure Switch Replacement 450 Civic Center Plaza

Utility Workers assisted the Housing Authority with maintenance, continued to replace bulbs at the Recreation Complex, cleaned carpets at the Family Justice Center, replaced door stop at the Main Library, disinfected common areas and maintained 27 City owned buildings.

Bulb Replacement

Engineering

Via Verdi Landslide Project
This week crews continued construction of the San Pablo Creek culvert, reconstruction of the damaged area of Via Verdi, and removal of the temporary detour road. Work included fine grading the culvert backfill, installing the storm drain system and installation of the new water main.

The project is scheduled to be completed in March of 2022.

Construction questions can be directed to the Construction Manager, Ben Kellman of mack5, at bkellman@mack5.com or (510) 595-4725.

Yellow Brick Road Project

Last week Ghilotti Bros, Inc. (GBI) continued working on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) ramps at the Lucas and Lincoln Avenue intersections. Concrete was placed at several locations. GBI also continues with storm drainage pipes and inlet installation along 7th Street. The electrical subcontractor, continued to install electrical conduits for the streetlights at the Chanslor and Bissell Avenues intersection. 

This week GBI will be removing concrete sidewalks and curbs along Bissell Avenue and replacing them with new concrete. The ADA ramps will continue to be installed along Lucas Avenue. The electrical contractor continues to pothole along 8th Street, north of Ripley Avenue. Horizontal boring along 8th Street will resume next week.

Storm Drain Installation

Parks and Landscaping

General fund crews removed a large tree stump from the Baxter Creek area, removed trees from John F. Kennedy Park, removed fallen tree debris from Booker T. Anderson Park, removed graffiti from various locations, removed pine needles and weeds from the South 55th Street sound wall, abated debris from central Richmond area parks, fixed the backflow cage at Nicholl Park, trimmed ivy at Raincloud Park, repaired play equipment at two parks and pollarded tress at the Main Library.

Fallen Tree Debris Removal

The tree crew cut or trimmed trees on/at: Fran Way, Rheem Avenue, Marina Green Park and Clinton Playlot.

Marina District

Crews continued to manually water plants on the medians of Marina Way South, removed debris from parks, replaced dog waste bags, continued to remove fallen trees, pruned shrubs on Mead Street, string cut weeds in concrete on the Bay Trail, removed encampment debris from Regatta Boulevard, removed debris from concrete beach, mowed lawns throughout and removed graffiti throughout the district.

Hilltop District

Crews performed maintenance throughout, weed abated at Country Club Vista Park, weed abated on Richmond Parkway right of ways from Atlas to Hilltop Drive and abated debris throughout the district.

Richmond Parkway Maintenance

Street Maintenance

Paving crews performed potholing in various locations, hot mix patched and assisted with removal of debris from an accident.

Hotmix Patching

Sweeping crews swept in the following neighborhood council areas on the third Monday through Friday in:  North Richmond, Iron Triangle, North Belding Woods, Atchison Village, South Belding Woods, Santa Fe, Coronado, Marina Bay and Point Richmond. Staff also swept in bike lanes in various locations.

Bike Lane Sweeping

Signs and Lines crews fabricated 21 new signs, installed 11 new signs, repaired 4 signs, installed 50 linear feet of traffic paint, removed 40 feet of blue traffic paint and installed traffic messages.

Pavement Marking Installation

Water Resource Recovery Division

Wastewater Treatment Plant – Fats, Oils, & Grease (FOG)

PLEASE! DO NOT PUT GREASE DOWN THE DRAIN! Heavy grease has been reported at Richmond's sewer treatment plant. Grease clogs pipes and can be detrimental to the function of the plant.

For more information about Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG), please call 510-620-6594.

Planta de Tratamiento de Aguas Residuales – Aceites y Grasas (FOG)

¡POR FAVOR! ¡NO PONGA GRASA POR EL DRENAJE! Se ha reportado grasa pesada en la planta de tratamiento de alcantarillado de Richmond. La grasa obstruye las tuberías y puede ser perjudicial para la función de la planta.

Para obtener más información sobre aceites y grasas (FOG), llame al 510-620-6594.

Sewer Lateral Grant Program

The City of Richmond’s Water Resource Recovery Division administers the Sewer Lateral Grant Program. The program reimburses eligible homeowners in the Richmond Municipal Sewer District (RMSD No. 1) for some of the cost to replace their sewer lateral.

The program is open and accepting applications for the Fiscal Year 2021-2022 for sewer lateral work completed between 7/1/2021-6/30/2022.

For more information about the Sewer Lateral Grant Program, please visit www.ci.richmond.ca.us/2130/Sewer-Lateral-Grant-Program or call 510-620-6594.

High Priority Critical Improvements Projects

The City of Richmond and Veolia Water (Veolia) are implementing High Priority Critical Improvements Projects at the City's Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP), which is managed and operated by Veolia. The purpose of the projects is to replace aging and unreliable infrastructure, improve treatment operating efficiency, comply with future discharge regulations and improve the functionality of the existing WWTP. The improvements were identified through previous planning efforts, including the 2010 WWTP Master Plan and the 2016 WWTP Facility Plan, to construct the following elements of the WWTP Critical Improvements Projects: (1) New screening and grit removal facilities; (2) Aeration upgrades; and (3) Demolition of existing facilities and site clearing in preparation for future WWTP Facilities. The projects are expected to take approximately 2 ½ years to complete.
Shimmick continued building the shoring towers in preparation for the walkway demolition at the aeration basin 4. They prepared, cut, secured, and hoisted the walkway sections out of the aeration basin 4-A. They also continued to work on the primary sedimentation tanks light pole circuit reconnection and building a platform at the bypass valve for easier operator access.

Ferma demobilized their last demolition equipment.

Shimmick removing the handrails of the aerator concrete structure on aeration basin 4-B for future use and installing temporary wood handrails.

Shimmick installing 8” x 8” timbers between the falsework deck and the underside of the aeration basin 4-C structure.

Crew adding horizontal timbers to reinforce tower framing under aeration basin 4-B platform in anticipation of potential flooding of the basin this past weekend.

Shimmick bracing the columns of the concrete structure in aeration basin 4-A.

Shimmick removing the cover of an opening in aeration basin 4-C as part of their selective demolition work. Calwest continued saw cutting of aeration basin 4-A platform.  Looking east, note the east walkway and the SE corner of the platform have been removed. The saw is remotely controlled by the operator.

Quarters of the aeration basin 4-A aeration platform stockpiled in Shimmick’s yard

Shimmick using the crane to hoist out of aeration basin 4-A the last piece of the walkway structure. Shimmick’s electricians continued to work on the primary sedimentation tanks light pole circuit reconnection. They ran the conduit to the previously installed panel on the outside north wall of the PST sludge pumping station.

Shimmick carpenters constructed a platform that provides operator access to the bypass valve handwheels.

Marina Bay Parkway Force Main Extension Project

The Marina Bay Parkway Force Main Extension Project extends the existing Marina Bay Parkway forcemain to a new manhole at the Intersection of Pierson Avenue and Marina Bay Parkway and installs a new gravity sewer pipeline from the Pierson/Jetty Drive intersection, across Marina Bay Parkway. This piping reconfiguration will eliminate sanitary sewer overflows that occur from depressed manholes located at the intersection of Marina Bay Parkway and Pierson Avenue.
W.R. Forde utilized directional drilling technology to bore under Marina Bay Parkway. Using this construction method eliminates the need for full road closure during construction

Directional drilling operations underway. Drilling specialty contractor Welco carefully aligns equipment. The initial pilot bore hole will be reamed to accept the new 12” Force Main. The entire route is marked with white paint.

The location and depth of the drilling rig cutting head is carefully tracked (worker with green equipment) for the entire 180 lineal feet of the drilling to keep the borehole within the desired alignment.

New 12” Force Main pipe with blue “pulling head” welded on the end. After the borehole was reamed and cleaned, this 180 lineal foot section of welded thickwall DR-11 HDPE pipe was pulled through the newly bored pathway under Marina Bay Parkway.

First Street Relief Sewer Project

The First Street Relief Sewer Project consists of approximately 3,743 lineal feet of open cut replacement of existing 6-inch sewer, approximately 1,696 lineal feet of open cut replacement of existing 8-inch sewer, approximately 631 lineal feet of open cut replacement of existing 10-inch sewer, and approximately 125 lineal feet of open cut replacement of existing 18-in sewer. This project began in July 2021 and is expected to be completed in April 2022, which is ahead of the Baykeeper due date of July 2023.

To date, D’Arcy & Harty Construction have completed replacement of more than 6,000 lineal feet of the 6,195 total lineal feet of piping included in the scope of this project. Currently the Contractor is working with the Design Team of Vivian Housen Associates to finalize routing for the remaining replacement lines at Atchison Village and 1st Street between Nevin and MacDonald. They will remobilize to complete installation of these pipes in the near future. After all the pipe replacement work is complete, final pavement restoration will begin next.

Thank you for keeping up with the activities in the City of Richmond.  Feel free to contact the City Manager’s Office if you have any questions or comments about these or any other items of interest to you.

Thank You!
Laura Snideman
City Manager
City of Richmond
450 Civic Center Plaza
Richmond, California 94804
(510) 620-6512

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