Major Novato Boulevard Overhaul Finally Set To Begin After Years In The Making

NOVATO, CA — A long‑planned reconstruction of Novato Boulevard between Diablo Avenue and Grant Avenue moved closer to reality as the City Council approved awarding a construction contract for the multi‑agency project at their late September meeting.

The capital improvement project dates back to 2001, and has been delayed by environmental review, utility coordination and funding, staff said.

“We are finally at a momentous stage where we’re ready to go to construction,” said Chris Benigni Novato Public Works Director, calling the overhaul “a great improvement for the city.”

The work will unfold largely in three layers. First, Novato Sanitary District will replace sewer mains and laterals from homes to the centerline trunk. Then North Marin Water District will replace water lines and services. Finally, the city will rebuild the surface.

On the surface, staff said Novato Boulevard will gain bike lanes on both sides, continuous sidewalks on both sides, upgraded ADA curb ramps, and a center two‑way left‑turn lane to pull turning vehicles out of the through lanes. New storm drains and bio‑retention areas will collect and treat runoff before it reaches creeks.

“We are going to add sidewalks on the portions of Novato Boulevard where there currently are not sidewalks on both sides of the street,” said project engineer Elisa Sarlatte. “We will be adding bike lanes throughout the full length from Diablo to Grant on both sides of the street, and then we’ll have a full traffic lane in either direction with a shared center lane.”

Benigni said the Sanitary District hoped to break ground in late September and estimated a 24‑month overall construction timeline.

The city received a formal bid protest the afternoon of the meeting.

On advice of the City Attorney, the council approved the contract award subject to resolution of the protest before the city manager signs. If needed, staff said, the item would return to the council.