United States Representative Jimmy Panetta announced on March 13 that $2 million in federal funding has been secured for the Yerba Buena Bridge Construction Project at Evergreen Valley College. Panetta was joined by San José Councilmember Domingo Candelas and City of San José Department of Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services Official Raymond Costantino during the announcement.
The funding is intended to support the development of a pedestrian bridge, including design planning, project management, permitting, inspection services, environmental monitoring, demolition, construction, and improvements to the existing creek channel. The project aims to improve connectivity within the Evergreen community and provide better access to parks and open spaces.
“The Yerba Buena Bridge has been, and continues to be, a crucial artery in the Evergreen Community,” said Rep. Panetta. “This is not just about rehabilitation of a bridge, it’s also about making sure that our communities are connected to opportunity. I’m proud secure this investment to ensure the federal government is playing its part in our local communities.”
San José Mayor Matt Mahan said, “At a moment when confidence in Washington is running low, Congressman Panetta is showing that leaders who stay focused on results can still deliver for their communities. That’s the kind of public service San Joséans expect and deserve.”
Councilmember Candelas added: “I want to thank Congressman Panetta for his advocacy in D.C., and for helping bring federal dollars to my district to improve the quality of life for our residents. This bridge is an important connection for our Estates neighborhood and for students at Evergreen Valley College, linking them to our parks and open spaces. Rebuilding the bridge will take continued work and coordination, but today’s progress is an important step forward. I look forward to partnering with Congressman Panetta on this and future projects that strengthen our community.”
San José City Manager Jennifer Maguire said: “This investment helps advance a critical infrastructure project that supports our commitment to creating safe, vibrant neighborhoods. Rebuilding the Yerba Buena Bridge will improve community connectivity, expand access to parks and recreation, and strengthen quality of life for residents.”
Panetta worked for this federal funding as part of the most recent appropriations package. For fiscal year 2026 he secured $3.75 million in community project funding across Santa Clara County as well as over $15 million total for 14 local projects in California’s 19th Congressional District.
Jimmy Panetta has served in Congress representing California’s 19th District since 2017 after replacing Sam Farr according to official records. He was born in Washington D.C., is currently 53 years old, lives in Carmel Valley according to his congressional biography, graduated from University of California Davis with a BA in 1991 and earned his JD from Santa Clara University in 1996 according to his official biography.