Second and Fourth Street Intersection Redesign Moves Ahead in San Rafael: What the Contracts Cover

SAN RAFAEL, Marin County — October 31, 2026. A redesign of the complicated junction where Second Street and Fourth Street meet in western downtown San Rafael moved toward construction with council action on October 19. The project aims to simplify traffic movements and improve pedestrian and bicycle connections while maintaining access for surrounding businesses and neighborhoods.

What was approved?

The city’s October 16 agenda briefing proposed a construction agreement with Ghilotti Bros., Inc. of approximately $2.3 million, with a contractual ceiling of $2.875 million including contingency, plus a separate construction management and inspection agreement with Consor North America. Public reporting on the October 19 meeting confirms council approval of both contracts.

How the streets could change

The city describes a redesign intended to make the five-legged intersection easier to navigate, with a simplified signal arrangement, shorter pedestrian crossings, accessible curb features, new pavement and lighting, a transit stop and a protected bicycle connection toward West End Avenue.

These are project design features, not a report that the crossing has already been rebuilt. Traffic changes during construction may be different from the final lane arrangement. Drivers, cyclists and pedestrians should rely on current posted controls and any subsequent traffic notices.

Where the money comes from

San Rafael’s briefing identifies a $3 million federal grant as the principal source for the broader project, together with a local gas tax contribution of approximately $398,000. Funding amounts and contract ceilings should not be casually added together as though each represented a separate construction cost: the amounts cover different roles and authorizations within the same effort.

What to monitor next

Residents near Second, Fourth, Marquard and West End should watch for official notices on construction stages, temporary detours, business access and parking restrictions. The award of a contract is a milestone, but the city must still manage the field work and publish the operational changes.

Sources: City of San Rafael October 16 project and agenda update; October 19 public council meeting records; downtown project background. Dates of specific work-zone closures remain subject to construction notices.

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