Longstanding problems with a portion of Sir Francis Drake Boulevard in West Marin will be solved this summer now that a contract has been signed between the County of Marin and a Bay Area construction contractor.
Engineered Soil Repairs of Walnut Creek was awarded a $340,692 contract to fix Drake Boulevard just east of the top of Olema Hill. Work will include the drilling and installation of concrete piers and tiebacks to repair the slide area along with roadway work to restore the lane.
Severe storms in March 2011 wiped out the eastbound lane, leading to a quest for federal funding for repairs. After more than two years of one-way, stop-controlled traffic through the area, Caltrans has authorized repairs and construction work is scheduled to begin by the end of June.
Marin County District 4 Supervisor Steve Kinsey, who represents residents in the Olema area, was euphoric at the news and simply stated, “Finally.”
One-way traffic control will be maintained for the duration of construction, and drivers should anticipate short delays as the contractor positions large equipment to affect the repairs. Weather-permitting, the job is expected to be completed before Labor Day weekend.