Calistoga highlights record capital season: microgrid, Vine Trail and $60M in projects

Public Works Director Derek Raynor presented an overview of department accomplishments and a busy capital program at the May 21 Calistoga City Council meeting, detailing large investments that will affect streets, water and wastewater infrastructure and regional connections.

Raynor said the department’s O&M budget for the current fiscal year is about $12.6 million, split among general fund, water and wastewater enterprise funds, and that the capital budget this year is unusually high at about $15.2 million. He said the city is participating in roughly $60 million of work in the valley, including projects funded by partners.

Significant items Raynor highlighted included a microgrid resiliency center (described in the presentation as a roughly $30 million project, primarily funded by PG&E), Vineyard and Vine Trail regional connectivity (a $16 million project to connect Calistoga and St. Helena with Calistoga’s contribution cited as about $600,000), and a large Riverside Ponds emergency repair project currently under construction (about $6.5 million as stated in the presentation).

Raynor also described ongoing upgrades to SCADA systems for water and wastewater treatment plants, replacement of generators at treatment facilities, and multiple street improvement projects that will require temporary closures and parking restrictions in the coming weeks.

Council members asked clarifying questions about grant coverage and what portion of the capital program is grant‑funded; Raynor said about one‑third of the $15.2 million capital total on the slide is grant covered. Council thanked Public Works staff and noted the microgrid and Vine Trail projects will be important regional investments.

What’s next: the city will publicize short‑term closure and parking restrictions for street work and schedule additional project updates as major milestone activities occur.