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Director’s Corner

It’s been a mighty, tidy past few weeks, Caltrans!

Greetings, Caltrans Family. It’s time to come clean about how we are having a positive impact on the quality of life in California.

Specifically, I want to summarize three recent developments that many of you have helped with.

Oct. 4 was California Clean Air Day, which Caltrans has participated in since its inception in 2018. Hundreds of you made pledges to do more to help make California air safer to breathe. Events occurred in every Caltrans district throughout September and early October.

We can all commit to making lifestyle changes whenever feasible to help keep the air clean in our communities. Change can start small, like taking public transit to work once a week, and lead to larger investments, like purchasing a zero-emission vehicle. Together, we can inspire and lead California toward a brighter, cleaner future for all.

In September, I participated in the Office of Traffic Safety’s news conference to launch a new “Safety is Sharing, Safety is Caring” public awareness campaign. In collaboration with the California Highway Patrol, Automobile Club of Southern California, Southern California Association of Governments and the city of Long Beach, the statewide campaign coincided with California’s Pedestrian Safety Month and aims to improve the safety of people who use our roads to bike and walk with the primary goal of reducing injuries and fatal crashes.

Pedestrian and bicycle deaths account for nearly 29 percent of all traffic deaths in California. That is beyond unacceptable. We must do more to improve safety.

By focusing on education, awareness and collaborative efforts, the new campaign helps to create a safer environment for everyone who uses California's roadways. The campaign features a new video in English and Spanish on digital platforms, audio messages on radio and streaming services, and digital billboards. I encourage you to watch.

Caltrans’  policy (DP-37) focuses on travel safety, and multi-modal options for all transportation projects. Whether people are walking, biking, using public transportation or their personal vehicles, our state highways must provide connectivity that meets the needs of all the traveling public..

On Sept. 23, our Stormwater Program’s “Let’s Change This to That” campaign partnered with the California Coastal Commission to advocate for cleaner coastlines and pollutant-free water. Numerous events were held across the state with the goal of preserving the natural splendor of California’s water resources and ensuring that all Californians understand their impact on community waterways, such as lakes, rivers, creeks, and the ocean.

Beyond trash collection, “Let’s Change This to That” encourages everyone to take preventative actions to stop pollutants at the source such as picking up after pets, properly disposing of waste, maintaining vehicles to prevent leaks and mitigate wear, and much more. These thoughtful behaviors contribute significantly to maintaining water quality and decreasing pollution.

Meanwhile, our efforts to raise awareness and projects tied to the governor’s Clean California initiative continue. For example, in mid-September,  I attended the unveiling of a murals project that features bright, life-size murals, drought-resistant landscaping and improved lighting at East Market Street, Alisal Street and Sanborn Road along U.S. Highway 101 in Salinas. You can find out about coming Clean California events by visiting this webpage.

Caltrans continues to work toward a safer, prosperous, more-equitable future for all of us to adapt to our changing climate appropriately. Together, we are clearly – and cleanly – making a difference.

News

Art project transforms Bay Area gateway site

By Gia Whiteside
District 4 senior public information specialist, Clean California

Caltrans, in partnership with the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency through a Clean California local grant, has transformed Yerba Buena Garden/Moscone Transit Center to become the gateway to downtown San Francisco into a colorful vision through landscaping and artwork (murals).

This renovation will visually welcome convention attendees, commuters, tourists, residents and neighboring communities with beautiful drought-resistant plants and flowers as the visitors stroll through the Yerba Buena Gardens/Moscone Transit Center.

Two local artists were chosen as the muralists: Dee Jae Pa’ Este and Caltrans Bay Area’s very own Graphic Designer Ismael Vera Cruz.

This project’s funding also allows the Yerba Buena Community Benefit District’s Clean Team to double its cleaning and power-washing efforts to keep the sidewalks around the venues clean.

This partnership is a win-win for everyone who visits the city of San Francisco’s convention district.

Clean team bags 283 pounds at Orange County beach

By Eric Corona
District 12 Clean California Program manager

Coastal Cleanup Day on Sept. 23 was a huge success at Huntington State Beach in Orange County.

The event was staffed by more than 370 volunteers, including Katella High School students and faculty.

A teacher by the name of Leone Walsh stated the volunteers’ motto was, “Do What You Are Supposed to Do!” Leone and her students participated in countless activities, donating their time and money to recycling effort and keeping their neighboring communities clean.

With about 283 pounds collected at event at Huntington State Beach, and a total of over 4,000 volunteers and 18,987 pounds of trash for the entire day, Coastal Cleanup, in partner with OC Coastkeeper’s, was a big hit.

This year continued the trend of surpassing participation from the year prior, so we are pushing to keep the momentum going.

‘In Memory of the Opportunity Center’

By Samantha O’Reilly
District 2 Clean California PIO

For almost 60 years, the Shasta County Opportunity Center facilitated productive and meaningful employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

Caltrans had the privilege of utilizing this program for several contracts; including litter abatement, rest area janitorial services, and mailroom services before the program shut down on June 30. While active it made a meaningful impact to those involved, and forged bonds that survived the program.

Former Employment Services Instructor II Mykle Thomas led the litter abatement crew contracted with Caltrans for almost two years before the program was shut down due to funding issues. Thomas worked for the Opportunity Center for four years before becoming the crew instructor. Due to COVID precautions, the Opportunity Center kept the crew down to four workers, around half of their pre-pandemic numbers.

Thomas’ crew worked closely with Caltrans landscaping and maintenance. They started and ended each day in the Redding Caltrans Maintenance Yard in Special Crews. Over time, the Opportunity Center Litter-Abatement Crew and Caltrans staff developed a friendship and appreciation for each other’s strong work ethic, kindness, sense of humor and learned to count on each other.

It was also clear how much Thomas cared for his crew. As the program came to a close, Thomas worked hard to help his crew transition and look for new work. Thomas’ favorite part of the job was helping his staff learn people skills that would benefit them in life and in future jobs.

”Mykle made sure they were all set before he even made sure he was okay,” said Charlie Kimball, Litter Crew-North supervisor.

When Thomas first started with the crew, he worked with Sheri Yeomans, District 2 water manager, learning how to put up signs safely along the roadway. Thomas made sure his crew was always following the rules and never cut corners on safety.

”Mykle was very attentive with the guys and made sure they were safe,” Yeomans said.

Everybody at Caltrans touched their lives in one way or another, but Kimball, Yeomans and Lou Romero, former litter crew supervisor and current Integrated Maintenance Management System coordinator, worked with the Opportunity Center crew the most and had a significant impact, Thomas said.

Romero made it a point to connect with them every Monday to see how their weekend went and how they were doing. Romero often made cookies and treats for the Opportunity Center crew.

”It was my way of saying thank you to them and good job,” Romero said. “The program benefitted everybody. I wish there was some way to keep it going.”

While the crew was small, they were also mighty. Caltrans employees who had the opportunity to work with them said that the crew was always ready to work and get the job done, no matter what the weather was like. It could be 112 degrees or pouring rain and this crew never complained. They were known for their hard work and amazing work ethic.

While the crew was small, they were also mighty. Caltrans employees who had the opportunity to work with them said that the crew was always ready to work and get the job done, no matter what the weather was like. It could be 112 degrees or pouring rain and this crew never complained. They were known for their hard work and amazing work ethic.

”They were fantastic and always happy to be out working,” Romero said. “I could see the happiness and enthusiasm in their eyes. You could tell they really cared for each other as a team. They really worked well together.”

As the time drew near for the program to end, Thomas wondered how he could maintain the connection with his guys. The months of time spent working with each other created strong bonds and a sense of comradery that everyone in the group would miss out on. In the spur of the moment, Thomas asked the crew if they wanted to adopt a section of the highway. Adopting a section of the highway would be their way to continue the great work of keeping highways clear and help keep the fellowship alive.

For Thomas, naming their Adopt-A-Highway sign “In Memory of the Opportunity Center” was an act of pride and he wanted to honor the parents and people who started the program more than 60 years ago. Thomas’ goal was to show that the program is gone but the will of the program is still alive and well. He also wants the people who were involved in the program to keep that memory alive and know that the program made a difference.

”It was a really great program,” Romero said. “I was sad to see it go.”

Hats Off

Traveler to Trinidad touts rest-area attendant

By Meriah Miracle
District 1 public information officer

“Hi, my name is Sheri Schmiedl. We recently made a trip to Trinidad and [stopped] at the rest place on the east side of the street. And there is a person by the name of Jeff that takes care of it. And I’m telling you, you couldn’t get any better.

“That place is spotless. He’s cleaning it all the time. He greets the people. I just couldn’t believe it. It made our trip so neat. And we stayed there more than one night, going to the state beaches and going back to that rest area because it was so nice.

“Beautiful trees, beautiful trails. Thank you very much.”

Ninety-year-old Registered Nurse Sheri Schmiedl reached out to the District 1 Public Information Office after her trip in June just to share her appreciation for Jeff Callaway, who has served as the attendant of the Trinidad Rest Area for 16 years.

Callaway maintains the restroom facilities, clears the redwood viewing trails of debris and branches, and removes trash from the grounds. He also tests water quality to ensure it’s safe to use and reports that data to Caltrans staff monthly. Perhaps most importantly, he connects with travelers who need a place to rest and stretch their legs before they head back out onto windy and often unfamiliar roads.

Callaway’s employment represents a 30-year partnership between Caltrans and the Humboldt Community Access and Resource Center (HCAR) to provide rest area maintenance at the two locations north of Trinidad on U.S. Highway 101.

HCAR is a private non-profit agency that supports more than 300 individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities with employment, independent living and day programs among other services.

Executive Director Kim Nash said the partnership with Caltrans creates opportunities for people who may be discriminated against or not considered for community employment.

“What makes Caltrans unique is their commitment to working with people with disabilities because they understand these folks can provide quality, reliable work,” Nash said. She highlighted that HCAR’s clients are paid prevailing wages with health care benefits.

Maintenance Facility Coordinator Mike Thiel has been working with Jeff and HCAR for nearly 16 years. “It’s always been a pleasure working, visiting, repairing equipment breakdowns, and solving issues with these guys” Thiel said. “When visiting the rest area, I usually leave with a smile.”

Callaway said he loves his job, and his favorite part is meeting people from all over the world. He’s even become friends with travelers from as far away as Argentina, collecting phone numbers initially and now adding them to his ever-growing list of Facebook friends.

Schmiedl emphasized that she travels a lot, and Callaway helped make her trip so wonderful she can’t wait to come back and visit Trinidad again soon. Callaway said he felt “happy and really good” to have someone compliment his hard work.

Nash added, “Knowing that someone took the time to recognize the quality of services provided by Jeff and HCAR on behalf of Caltrans is noteworthy. We understand that most people likely call to complain about roads, but this person saw excellence.”

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District 5 engineer wows Central Coast lawmaker

The following email was sent by Monterey County Supervisor Mary L. Adams (Fifth District) to Peter Hendrix, division chief for traffic in Caltrans District 5, on Sept. 8.

“I write to let you know what a magnificent job your staff person [District 5 Senior Transportation Engineer] Kathy Kleinschmidt did on helping us address a very difficult problem we have in Monterey County. As the Fifth District Supervisor for Monterey County, I oversee the area embracing Highway 1 from the City of Monterey all the way down the coast to the San Luis Obispo line. In fact, my district has more coastline than any other supervisorial district in the state.

“We are so grateful to you for sending Kathy to the CTCDC meeting in Rancho Cucamonga to present on our issue. Clearly, she must have spent a lot of time preparing, editing and then presenting what was a magnificent presentation outlining the significant problems and safety hazards of people illegally camping along Highway 1 through my district.

“Her professionalism and comprehensive approach while presenting on the No Camping Signs to the CTCDC was outstanding. In fact, while most of the other items were only discussed for ten minutes or so each, our item was discussed for nearly sixty minutes. Her strong ability engaged the commissioners which led to questions being asked and great responses received. The fact that the CTCDC approved the sign unanimously is a solid tribute to her preparedness and excellence.

“Throughout my tenure on the Monterey County Board of Supervisors, I have interacted with many exceptional CalTrans staff and Kathy most certainly is among them. I enjoy the positive relationship we have with CalTrans and would be happy to assist you in any matter here in Monterey County should the circumstance arise.”

Health and Safety

How to become a mental health ally

By the Employee Assistance Program

There are few experiences more isolating than suffering with a mental health condition.

People who have never felt more than some occasional blues or anxiety won’t likely understand the depth of distress that a serious mental health problem can cause. They may observe you routinely going through the motions of your day, while internally, you’re miserable.

Plus, you’re worried about telling anyone how you feel for fear of being ridiculed. Some people’s inconsiderate use of language about mental health — such as referring to others as “crazy” — can quickly cause a person to clam up to avoid becoming a topic of office conversation.

Mental health allies are people who create safe spaces where others can feel comfortable discussing their mental state and seeking treatment. Allies share their own mental health stories, and they encourage struggling individuals to seek help.

To be a mental health ally, educate yourself and your colleagues about behavioral health issues. Prepare to talk one-on-one with teammates who might be struggling, use supportive language, and encourage your work group to be sensitive to others’ mental health challenges.

Sometimes an informal conversation with someone is all that’s needed; other times, particularly when a person is in crisis, a next step for safety is indicated. Mental health allies are attuned to listen for the differences, knowing where their own role begins and ends.

When someone is struggling with a mental health problem, it’s usually difficult for them to request help. Eliminate one barrier by starting the conversation yourself. Ask simple questions like, “I noticed you’ve been having trouble with things lately; what can I do to help?” This creates a safe space for someone to talk about their problem and move toward assistance without needing to seek it out.

Having a workplace culture where colleagues demonstrate understanding and empathy helps people feel more comfortable seeking mental health support.

By sharing your own mental health experience, whether it’s with a serious lifelong mental illness or your daily struggles with anxiety, you open the door for people to see themselves in your story and feel less alone.

Who’s New

Sudha Kodali, chief of the Office of Capital Improvement Programs, Division of Financial Programming

Sudha Kodali is the new chief of the Office of Capital Improvement Programs within the Division of Financial Programming.

Since joining Caltrans in 2005, Sudha has worked across a variety of functional units, such as the North Region Division of Project Development, Transportation Management Plan, Contract Engineering within the Division of Construction, Advance Planning and Forecasting, and the Office of Capital Improvement Programming at both District 3 and Headquarters.  Some of her notable accomplishments include:

• Delivering capital Improvement projects in compliance with local, state and federal regulations, standards and procedures.
• Reviewing local development-intergovernmental products to assess the local development proposals for impacts and evaluate results and mitigation for new developments on the State Highway System.
• Managing the Statewide Transportation Improvement Program, coordinating the Border Infrastructure Program, and Senate Bill 1 program projects, including programming, amendments, time extensions, and allocations, for the southern districts in Districts 7, 8, 11 and 12.

Sudha was born and raised in India and immigrated to the United States in 2002.  She received her master’s degree in civil engineering in December 2004 from the University of Texas, Arlington. 

While out of the office, she enjoys watching movies, cooking and spending time with her husband and their son and daughter.

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Marlon Regisford, District 7 deputy district director of planning and local assistance

Marlon Regisford is District 7’s new deputy district director of planning and local assistance.

Marlon is a 17-year veteran of Caltrans. He most recently served as the deputy district director of planning, local assistance and environmental in District 10.

He is responsible for the delivery of division functions, including development of long-range strategic plans for preliminary planning and feasibility studies. In addition, he supports Regional Transportation Planning and Transit Agency partners in their Regional Planning and Project Development activities, and provides oversight of environmental review to ensure compliance with federal and state laws and regulations.

Marlon develops innovative and effective transportation strategies for the district and provides technical support and assistance to local cities and counties that enhance the delivery of locally sponsored projects utilizing transportation funds.

Previously, Marlon served as Caltrans Headquarters’ sustainability projects manager. Prior to that, Marlon served as the District 12 system planning branch chief, overseeing active transportation, freight, modeling/forecasting, grants, air quality, Park and Ride, and Rideshare functions.

Marlon has also served as District Complete Streets coordinator.

Marlon holds a bachelor of science degree in urban and regional planning from Cal Poly Pomona, and a master of science degree in transportation management from San Jose State University.

Marlon has previously served on the American Planning Association, California Chapter, Orange County Section Board.

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Matt Rocco, assistant deputy director of Public Affairs

Matt Rocco is the new assistant deputy director of Public Affairs.

Matt has spent the past 30 years working in the communications/public relations field, and most recently as the acting assistant deputy director of Public Affairs.

Over the past 17 years at Caltrans, Matt has promoted the department’s vision to the public and discussed a wide variety of transportation subjects with the media, including the need for stable state and federal transportation funding, sustainability efforts by the department and projects that place California at the forefront in innovative transportation solutions.

In addition to continuous efforts to raise awareness and educate the public on the department’s priorities – Safety, Equity, Climate Action and Economic Prosperity – Matt and his team are overseeing the management of three public education campaigns for safety, stormwater pollution awareness and Clean California. 

Earlier in his career, Matt worked on public service campaigns, including educating the public on HIV prevention during the height of the AIDS crisis. In this respect, he continues to champion diversity, equity and inclusion with his work at Caltrans and his advocacy of the LGBTQ+ community. 

Matt earned his master of public administration degree and bachelor of arts in communications/public relations. He lives in Sacramento with his husband, two dogs and three cats. 

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John Yang, District 7’s deputy district director for Construction

John Yang is District 7’s new deputy district director for Construction.

John has been with District 7 for 32 years and brings a wealth of experience from various disciplines in Caltrans. He served as District 7’s acting deputy district director in Construction for the last six months. He was also the acting deputy district director for District 7's Maintenance Division for six months in 2013.

Between 1991 and 1997, John went through District 7's rotation program and worked in Office of Project Development A, Operations, District Construction, Seismic Design, and Structures Construction.

In 1997, he was promoted to take on the role of district office engineer and responsible for all PS&E delivery through DES OE. In 2005, he took on the role of district traffic manager overseeing the operations of Transportation Management Plan (TMP), Traffic Management Team (TMT), Planned Lane Closure reviews and Transportation Management Center (TMC).

In 2013, John was promoted to be the principal transportation engineer in charge of Interstate 5 North and South Corridor construction and assisting the deputy district director overseeing the operation of the Division of Construction.

John is committed to implementing the department’s foundational principles of safety, equity, climate action and economic prosperity for our communities. He aims to advance the District Construction’s delivery culture, empower construction managers and their staff to meet delivery commitments, and satisfy the needs of our communities and stakeholders.

John and his wife, Stella, have one daughter and three grandchildren.

Obituaries

Kulwant Dhaliwal, retired District 6 Construction employee

Note: The following obituary was shared with District 6 employees in an email on Sept. 11.

With deep sadness and a heavy heart, you all are informed of the passing of our dear colleague and friend Kulwant Dhaliwal on Sept. 5.

He was 78.

Kulwant started his career at Caltrans District 6 in 1992 in Bakersfield Construction Office. After 23 years of state service, he retired in May 2015. Upon retirement he kept himself busy with his family, gardening (very passionate) and long walks in the park adjoining his house.

Kulwant was enthusiastic, energetic, encouraging, passionate, humorous, happy, always smiling, and willing to help anyone in need. He touched so many people in so many ways and made everyone who knew him laugh with the stories he shared.

Kulwant lived a full life, filled with joy and happiness. He is survived by his only daughter, Dupinder Kaur Chahal, grandkids and friends.

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Christopher Willard Martin, retired Caltrans supervisor

Note: The following obituary was posted on the Marshall Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel website earlier this year.

Retired Caltrans employee Christopher Willard Martin, 72, of Pismo Beach passed away unexpectedly at Marian Regional Medical Hospital in Santa Maria on April 4.

Chris was born to Leslie and Willard Martin on May 25, 1950,  in Sutter Creek. He spent his young life traveling the globe from Okinawa to Germany as an “Army brat,” but California was always home.

Chris graduated from Jackson High School in Jackson in 1968. He was known to be a loving parent and involved member of the community, who coached Little League when his children were young and played in local softball leagues, where he was legendary on the field.

He completed an impressive 40 years of service with Caltrans, working to keep people and the environment safe as a HazMat and storm water drainage specialist among other roles, and retired as a supervisor.

Always quick to laugh and smile, Chris spent his life making friends everywhere he went. An avid golfer, Chris could often be found out on the course with friends, or at his beloved Pismo Beach Moose Lodge. Traveling was also his passion, between baseball fields and golf courses, he was always on the road to new adventures. He loved hosting gatherings, spending time with friends and family, meeting new people, watching sports and cheering on his favorite team, the Baltimore Orioles. Chris had a warm heart; to know him was to be his friend.

Chris will be remembered as a loyal family member and friend, a wonderful father and an incredible “G-pa” to his three grandchildren. An irreplaceable source of good times and love, he is sorely missed.

He is survived by his loving fiancee, Maxine; his children, Tony and Maren; his daughter-in-law Miki; his sisters, Karen, Meghan and Lisa; his grandchildren, Gavin, Hannah and Lily; his nieces and nephews; and many lifelong friends. He is predeceased by his best friend, Willie “Uncle Bill” Perales.