East 14th Street, once called "the ugliest street in the East Bay" by a local journalist, has many obstacles to overcome. The street, which becomes Mission Boulevard south of Interstate 238 is one of the longest continuous roadways in the East Bay. Prior to the construction of the local freeway system, it served as the state highway linking many East Bay communities. Much of the existing highway commercial development reflects this history.
This streetscape project is intended to reduce the scale of the street and make it more pedestrian friendly. By creating a consistent design in the public area, the project creates a sense of place and an identifier for the neighborhoods it encompasses. It is hoped, that this public investment will stimulate additional private investment in the area and revitalize the boulevard.
Improvements include: Undergrounding of all utilities, new hardscapes such as widened sidewalks, intersection bulb-outs with trees, improved bus stops, curbed and planted medians, lighting, and street furniture such as bus shelters, benches and trash cans.
Phase I
The first phase of the E. 14th Street/Mission Blvd. (E. 14th Street between 159th and 162nd) streetscape improvement
project was completed in Spring 2005.
Phase II
Now that Phase I is complete, work has already begun on Phase II which will include E. 14th Street from 162nd
Avenue south to Interstate 238. PG&E is currently working with the County to complete the design and construction
drawings for the relocation of utility wires underground. Design and construction drawings for the other components
of the streetscape, is also underway and is expected to be completed by the end of 2009. Construction will be scheduled
once the drawings are completed.
Phase III
Phase III which will include Mission Boulevard between Interstate 238 and the Hayward City limits has
not yet been scheduled.
