Council approves $140,000 additional Calistoga share for Vine Trail amid utility and archaeological delays

The Calistoga City Council on April 30 approved Amendment No. 3 to the funding agreement for the Napa Valley Vine Trail Saint Helena–Calistoga segment, adding $140,000 to the city’s contribution to a $740,000 contingency pool.

Napa Valley Transportation Authority project manager Grant Bailey told the council that construction has encountered unmarked underground utilities, an extended wet season and design conflicts, driving a need for extra contingency. He said the total contingency request is $740,000 split among jurisdictions and partners; Calistoga’s share is 19% (about $140,000). NVTA is pursuing a contractor claim (estimated around $400,000) and will seek reimbursement from PG&E for delays and unknown utilities; NVTA said it would temporarily use general funds and reimburse partners if PG&E grants relief.

NVTA also described costly archaeological and tribal‑monitoring requirements under CEQA and Assembly Bill 52: much of the alignment is environmentally sensitive and artifact discoveries have required on‑site tribal monitors and archaeologists, increasing time and costs. Bailey said the preferred practice is to document and return artifacts to tribal custody when appropriate.

Council members asked about completion timing and safety at road crossings. NVTA said the trail is targeted for turnover to the public in late June or early July, with a ribbon cutting in late July; safety features at vehicle crossings will include yield signs, truncated domes and activated HAWK pedestrian signals timed to opening (one signal to be energized the week after the meeting and a second in early June).

Public commenters supported the trail but urged improved safety at Highway 29 crossings and asked whether tree and landscaping mitigation would be more extensive than simple plantings. Public Works Director Derek Raynor said the city’s total cost for its section, including the additional $140,000, would be roughly $594,250 and that the project helps Calistoga meet Measure T obligations for class‑1 bike facilities.

Councilmember Cooper moved to adopt the resolution approving the additional funding; the council approved it by roll call vote (all ayes). NVTA and city staff said they will continue to pursue reimbursement claims and keep the city informed of any further funding needs.

The council approved the resolution at the meeting; staff will report back on claims and reimbursements.