The Tulare County Resource Management Agency (RMA)- Public Works branch, plays a critical role in maintaining and improving the county’s infrastructure. Within RMA, three distinct management groups oversee various aspects of public works, including engineering, surveying, and maintenance operations. One of these groups, Management Group 2 (MG2) – Design and Construction Management, is responsible for the planning, design, and construction of roadway and infrastructure improvement projects throughout the county.
Under the leadership of RMA Director Reed Schenke, P.E. and Chief Engineer Hernan Beltran, P.E., MG2 is structured into eight specialized teams, each dedicated to a unique aspect of project development. These teams work collaboratively to ensure the successful execution of construction and maintenance projects, from initial design to final completion.
Led by Michael Winton, P.E., the Alpha team focuses on operational improvements and community development projects. Their work enhances road efficiency and safety through initiatives such as traffic signal optimization, data-driven analysis of accident hotspots, and targeted maintenance in high-risk areas. Alpha is committed to ensuring that projects effectively address the needs and long-term maintenance of the County’s roads and infrastructure.
Bravo, our bridge team, is essential to maintain the County’s bridge network. Bravo coordinates with the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) to inspect and identify bridges in need of maintenance, repairs, or reconstruction. The team oversees the upkeep of more than 231 bridges measuring over 20 feet and over 1,000 crossings measuring less than 20 feet. These include approximately 40 bridges, 916 pipe culverts, and 234 box culverts. Maintenance is performed through in-house coordination with the Roadyard division (Road yards are part of MG1: discussed in the last edition of In the Works). Their responsibilities also include coordinating environmental studies, hydrologic assessments, and structural rehabilitation efforts with consultants.
Under the direction of Claudia Sanchez, P.E., the Delta team focuses on community road repair projects. Their work helps preserve and improve road conditions utilize various repair techniques, including surface overlay, chip sealing, slurry sealing, striping, and signage upgrades. Delta is also partners with other agencies and cities to provide a smooth roadway network throughout the County.
Following the March 2023 storms, severe flooding caused extensive damage to critical transportation infrastructure, requiring emergency repairs at over 360 locations. The Emergency Recovery team, led by Grey Tompkins, P.E., spearheads the County’s restoration efforts. The team works closely with Caltrans and FEMA conducting field inspections, coordinating with consultants, and securing funding to rebuild.
Also led by Grey Tompkins, P.E., the Echo team ensures that engineering designs come to life through effective construction management. Echo oversees all aspects of project execution, from material procurement to site work, ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal regulations. The team maintains project schedules, budgets, and inspection records while collaborating with contractors to keep construction on track.
The Golf team, led by Supervising Civil Designer Pedro Ornelas, provides comprehensive graphic support for engineering projects. Their work includes developing and refining exhibits, technical drawings and visual plans. Additionally, Golf assists MG1 (Operations & Maintenance) by creating design plans for American with Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant infrastructure upgrades.
The Romeo team, led by Teresa Arteaga, is responsible for securing property rights and access for construction projects. This team negotiates easements and land acquisitions, ensuring that public infrastructure projects move forward while respecting private property rights. Romeo also collaborates with appraisal experts, manages right-of-way contracts, and oversees relocation assistance programs when necessary.
The Sierra team, supervised by Karla Arteaga, provides administrative and logistical support,
ensuring that projects stay on schedule and within budget. They assist with Caltrans communication, financial tracking, procurement, and bid openings, as well as handling public requests and board agenda items. Their role is vital in reducing the workload on engineers and ensuring smooth project execution.
Together, the teams within MG2 form a dynamic force dedicated to improving, maintaining, and expanding Tulare County’s infrastructure. Whether designing new roadways, repairing storm damage, or ensuring construction compliance, MG2 plays a pivotal role in keeping the county’s transportation network safe and functional for the community.
Stay tuned for the next edition of In the Works where we will highlight the Surveyor’s Office (MG4).
