The City of Pittsburg has been recognized by the American Public Works Association (APWA) with an award in the Environmental Category (less than $5 million) for its innovative Living Green Trail project, located on the north side of Frontage Road. This transformational initiative successfully repurposed an unused, neglected space into a vibrant and functional community asset.
A once-forgotten space in the East Bay city has been transformed into a vibrant eco-friendly trail, earning an American Public Works Association award for its innovative approach to environmental sustainability and community enhancement.
The Living Green Trail was developed with the goal of addressing chronic illegal dumping in the area while enhancing active transportation opportunities for residents. The project transformed an overlooked corridor into a safe and sustainable walking path connecting the surrounding neighborhood to the BART Pittsburg Center Station. The project was made possible by a grant from the Caltrans Clean California Program, which supported the City’s vision for sustainability and community improvement.
“This award reflects our commitment to sustainability and smart urban design. By revitalizing this space, we have not only improved walkability and accessibility for our residents, but also implemented environmental solutions that contribute to a greener future,” said John Samuelson, City of Pittsburg Director of Public Works/City Engineer.
The project repurposed existing pavement for its own bioretention planter areas that treat stormwater runoff, and added a roadway “diet” as an engineering control to dissuade vehicular speeding on Frontage Road. The project added approximately 17,000 square feet of walking paths, improving pedestrian connectivity from Dover Way to Chelsea Way. The trail includes a fitness station, a bike repair station, and a water fountain to encourage healthy and active lifestyles. Additionally, artwork created by 4th and 5th graders from Los Medanos Elementary School showcase the vision of “Living Green,” and add a unique, community-driven aesthetic to the space.
The City of Pittsburg extends its gratitude to the APWA for this honor and to the residents, community partners, and City staff who contributed to making the Living Green Trail a reality. This award-winning project stands as a testament to Pittsburg’s dedication to sustainable urban development and community enhancement.
For more information about the Living Green Trail or other City initiatives, please visit www.pittsburglivinggreen.com
About The City of Pittsburg
Incorporated in 1903, Pittsburg is located on the south shore of the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta in Northern California, 30 miles east of San Francisco. The City has a population of 77,752, and operates under the council/manager form of government with its own Police, Public Works, Community and Economic Development, Finance, Community Services, and Recreation Departments, as well as its own utility divisions operating as the Pittsburg Power Company and Pittsburg Water. With more than 5,000 new housing units in the development pipeline, as well as large industrial corridors slated for redevelopment, Pittsburg is one of the fastest growing cities in Contra Costa County
