District 11 Community Affairs
At Caltrans District 11, we believe transportation should unite—not divide—communities. Our Community Affairs Unit works hand in hand with residents, local organizations, and public agencies to create inclusive, people-centered infrastructure. Through equity-driven partnerships, we collaborate with community-based organizations and non-profits to foster engagement, sustainability, and economic mobility while addressing the historical impacts of transportation infrastructure on underserved neighborhoods.
From Reconnecting Communities and freeway closures for cultural and civic events to community art projects along highways, we are dedicated to transforming transportation spaces into opportunities for connection, empowerment, and vibrant, thriving communities.
Our Initiatives
Reconnecting Communities Initiative
This initiative addresses the historical impacts of transportation infrastructure by investing in mobility, accessibility, and community-driven solutions in places like Southeastern San Diego and National City. Key efforts include:
- Community Connectors Conference: A two-day event co-hosted with Mundo Gardens, the Urban Collaborative Project, Smart Growth America, and others. It brings together experts, advocates, and government leaders to discuss equitable practices, government-community partnerships, environmental justice, systemic racism, tribal epistemology, and anti-displacement strategies.
- Equity Site Visits: Bringing policymakers and transportation leaders to meet directly with community partners, hear their stories, and experience the neighborhoods impacted by past infrastructure decisions. Visits have included Barrio Logan, City Heights, and the U.S.-Mexico border.
commUNITY Bike, Walk & Beautify Freeway Closures
Reimagining transportation spaces by transforming full freeway closures into community events. In 2023, a maintenance closure of SR-15 became an opportunity for hundreds of residents to walk and bike safely, participate in cleanups, contribute to temporary public art, visit resource booths, and even witness a freeway fashion show. In 2024, the event expanded to the I-805/43rd St interchange. This is part of a broader effort to:
- Partner with cities and organizations to host freeway closures for community events, including cultural festivals, marathons, and gatherings that celebrate and strengthen local identity.
- Support sustainable mobility efforts by encouraging walking, biking, and public transit in underserved corridors.
commUNITY Bike, Walk & Beautify Event Gallery
Community Art on Freeways
Transforming underpasses, retaining walls, and freeway-adjacent spaces into vibrant public art that reflects the culture, history, and identity of local communities. This initiative enhances public spaces while fostering a deeper sense of community ownership.
Community Art Gallery
Community Partnerships & Outreach
Engaging residents through listening sessions, public meetings, and bilingual outreach to ensure that transportation projects reflect the voices and needs of those most impacted. We work closely with local leaders, non-profits, and grassroots organizations to turn community vision into action.
Promise Zone Partnerships
Supporting the federally designated San Diego Promise Zone, we engage in community cleanups, town halls, school events, and public outreach in Southeast San Diego and Logan Heights, with the goal of transforming local priorities into tangible projects.
Workforce Development
By creating pathways to employment, we provide job training, mentorship, and hiring events with a focus on underrepresented communities, formerly incarcerated individuals, and those experiencing homelessness. Programs like the Construction Protégé Program and targeted maintenance hiring efforts ensure job opportunities are accessible to those who need them most.Want to collaborate with us?
Connect with our Community Affairs team to learn more about partnerships, upcoming events, and ways to engage.