LAMORINDA WEEKLY | Town council gives staff a thumbs up on Laguna Creek's early design stage


Courtesy Moraga Public Works Dept.

After input received from public meetings via Zoom, which included a Community Workshop, the Planning Commission and the Park and Recreation Commission, Moraga's town council was given an update by staff as to preferences for the design of the Laguna Creek Restoration Project currently at the 15% stage.

The Project is meant to avoid another major flooding of the Pavilion, located at the Hacienda de las Flores in Moraga, like the one that occurred during the winter of 2005-06, which also caused major damage to structures and features on the property.

Restoration work will consist of removing Laguna Creek's existing 8-foot diameter culvert adjacent to the Pavilion building; constructing a natural channel to provide habitat for endangered species; relocating a Central Contra Costa Sanitary District sewer line; constructing a vehicular bridge over the creek; and improving public accessibility and protections.

Moraga Public Works Director/Town Engineer Shawn Knapp and Associate Civil Engineer Mark Summers addressed the public's preferences during the council's March 24 meeting. Also present were representatives from BKF Engineering and Restoration Design Group. Major points of discussion were the bridge width, ADA parking, the pedestrian trail, and required guardrails.

It was also pointed out that many dead or dying trees, as well as those not considered California natives, will be removed during construction where necessary. However, restoration planting of oaks, baccharis, buckeye and numerous multi-colored blooming trees will take their places. The unsightly shed that often makes its photo-bombing appearance in wedding pictures will also be eliminated.

Knapp and Summers' staff report revealed to council the most popular public feedback options. "Move the ADA accessible parking stall to the front of the building to maintain access, facilitate movement around the building, and allow for a narrower bridge." To accommodate pedestrians, "have a decomposed granite (or other durable material) trail that is more accessible for wheelchairs, strollers, and heeled shoes." And, "utilize new guardrails/barriers similar in appearance to the wooden ones used elsewhere on the grounds."

The council was pleased with the public's 15% design stage input and directed staff to proceed with the project.