Transportation awards given, received at meeting

Barbara O'Keefe, deputy director of transportation in Tehama County, was more than surprised when she was recognized during a recent Corning City Council meeting.

"I had no idea I was receiving this," O'Keefe said of the plaque. She has served as deputy director of transportation for at least 15 years.

O'Keefe was at the meeting to present two awards on behalf of Caltrans and the Tehama County Transportation Commission, one to Mayor Gary Strack and the other to John Brewer, director of public works.

"I came here tonight to give out awards, not receive one," O'Keefe said. "This is such a wonderful thing to have happen."

On the plaque was a proclamation recognizing O'Keefe's efforts during Phase I of the South Avenue Interchange Project completed in 2009, which made significant lane, ramp and signalization improvements to the South Avenue overcrossing, on-ramps and exits from Interstate 5. The proclamation states O'Keefe was instrumental in advocating and securing $5.9 million in funding for the project from the California Transportation Commission, as well as monitored the project and helped coordinate temporary freeway ramp closures that minimized negative effects on area businesses.

She has also been very instrumental in providing Corning residents with free TRAX bus transportation for the annual Christmas House Tour in town.

While presenting the "2011 Excellence in Transportation Award" certificates to Strack, O'Keefe noted the mayor is the chair of the county's Transpiration Commission.

"The commission has benefited from your leadership and dedication. As a public servant I have been honored to work with Mayor Strack," she said.

O'Keefe said it has been a privilege to work in different capacities with Brewer for 19 years.

Brewer was recently promoted to city manager, but will keep his duties as director of Public Works.