Engineering

Purpose and Functions

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Organization chart [PDF]

Develops and manages the Public Works Capital Improvement Program (CIP), which includes transportation (auto, bike, pedestrian), sanitary sewer, storm drain, and refuse facilities. Manages other departments' CIP projects as requested. Provides development review services and permitting.

The division develops project concepts, budgets and grant requests based on input from the public, commissions and Council, as well as documents such as the General Plan, Beach Area Plan, utility master plans, etc. The division annually develops a 3-Year Capital Improvement Plan based on this work for commission review and Council approval.

Project design and construction management may be done in-house or through consultants depending on project size and complexity. Staff works closely with other public agencies (CalTrans, Army Corps of Engineers, Regional Boards, etc.) on design, construction, maintenance and permitting of projects within the City.

The division provides development review services in close coordination with the Planning Department for private development proposals, to ensure that requirements are met for traffic impacts, sewers, drainage, refuse and recycling collection, accessibility, street lighting, etc. Engineering staff are available during office hours to issue permits and provide public information and access to plans and maps.

The division provides engineering support to other Departments as needed. Staff perform important duties in City disaster response and recovery efforts.

Goals & Challenges

Major Goals:

Complete the annual Capital Improvement Program on time and within budget
Develop annual budget and prioritized 3-Year CIP with public and Commission input
Explore and develop all project funding opportunities
Increase the department's project inspection management effectiveness
Provide efficient and effective service to the development community
Provide efficient and effective customer service

Major Upcoming Issues/Challenges:

Completion of CIP projects within the proposed schedule and budget, and with a minimum of disruption to public when funds become available, especially:
- Murray Street Bridge Seismic Retrofit
- East Cliff Slope Repair Projects
- Various Wastewater Collection and Treatment Plant Rehabilitation Projects
- Annual Street Rehabilitation, Overlay and Cape Seal Programs
- Mission Street Utility Undergrounding Phase 3 (Mission Hill)
- Riverside Avenue Utility Undergrounding and Streetscape
Develop staffing to improve inspection services and project development
Continue to use design development teams (engineers, planners, inspectors, maintenance staff) to provide input into Capital Project Designs
Increase the public's understanding of the department's capital improvement program
Funding Street Maintenance, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction