Albany launches CIP 24015 for shared‑use path repairs; $800,000 budgeted, staff warn of drainage and invasive‑tree challenges

At the meeting the Commission heard a project kickoff for CIP 24015, a two‑phase shared‑use path pavement renewal program budgeted at $800,000 to address deferred maintenance across Albany’s shared‑use paths, including the Albany Greenway, the Buchanan bikeway and the San Pablo/Monroe bikeway.

CIP program manager Alison Creo (transcript spelling varies) said the budget is modest and prioritization will be required: "The budget is $800,000 total over two different phases," she said, adding that staff will prioritize acute needs and preventative treatments (crack sealing and slurry) and coordinate with park rehabilitation work.

Staff described a particular maintenance challenge at the greenway: a decomposed‑granite (DG) shoulder that has become a drainage channel and that, where tree roots have uplifted the path, requires more extensive repair. Staff highlighted a thicket of 'tree of heaven' — an aggressively rooting, invasive species — where repeated root regrowth makes localized fixes less durable and where complete removal requires large excavation or herbicide use (which is limited under the city's integrated pest management policy).

Staff said phase one will target Greenway renewal and drainage management and that parallel 'pedestrian' paths in worse condition may require partial removal and replacement; the projects will be coordinated to minimize closures. Public commenter Carrie Schulman urged staff to preserve a low‑stress alternative route during work and suggested doing pedestrian path repairs first so an alternate route remains while the Greenway is closed.

Commissioners recommended using thermoplastic markings for better longevity, testing stabilized DG alternatives in a pilot (staff will test a wax‑based stabilizer at Pier Street Park), and planning generous temporary detours (including using an adjacent travel lane where feasible) so cyclists and pedestrians can pass safely during construction. Staff will return with scoping, prioritization and refined budget recommendations.