Hats Off

True blue: In District 4, rising to the challenge

Note: The following email was sent to District 4 Public Information Officer David Hafner by Jean Boagiages of San Francisco.

I just want to share with you a photo of the paint work that Caltrans is doing under the bridge.

We have a terrible graffiti problem, but today, Caltrans is on top of it.

I'm sure I speak for the neighborhood when I thank Caltrans for keeping this up.  Our Potrero Gateway project will benefit.

District 5 tree crew lauded for prompt, welcome help 

Note: The following email was sent to District 5 on May 20 by the daughters of Geri McClellan: Susan Pico, Trish Graybill and Kerry McCarthy.

“We want to express our sincere gratitude to Caltrans Santa Barbara Area Maintenance Superintendent Aldo Estrada and the Caltrans tree crew for the work done in front of our parents’ home in Santa Barbara.

“A hit-and-run accident left our 95-year-old mother with extensive structural damage to the property, a gas leak, and debris found four houses away. She was without gas, thus no hot water for cooking, dishes (and) baths, and without a dryer, stove or heater for a week.

“Whereas the insurance company has taken over two months to decide how they will address the incident, Caltrans stepped in immediately to assess damage and correct the situation. Several times we heard Mr. Estrada say that they would be back first thing in the morning because it was essential to have the utilities working for Mom. 

“The project involved removing huge roots that had dangerously wrapped around a city water main. These had to be carefully taken out to reach the gas line that was crushed during the accident.

“(The Caltrans crew’s) work ethic and skill level is one we should be proud of in this community and one I am so thankful to have witnessed. We are so appreciative of the tree crew's dedication and commitment to their jobs, which stood out above all else. It was not an easy task: long hours, hot days, and a dangerous situation. 

“We also were put at ease from the start by the wonderful communication and expertise of the supervisor, Aldo Estrada. What a great team they make. They brought calm to our chaos with exceptional support and a job well done.