Hayward’s Roads Surge to New Heights: PCI Score Hits 78

UPDATE: Hayward’s roads are seeing a dramatic improvement, according to a newly released report from the Metropolitan Transportation Committee (MTC). The city’s Pavement Condition Index (PCI) has surged from 69 in 2019 to 78 in 2025, marking a significant leap in street quality that local residents are celebrating.

Car enthusiasts like Jermaine Shaffer are particularly thrilled. Shaffer, who drives a vintage 1947 Chevrolet Fleetline, recalls the treacherous potholes that once plagued Hesperian Boulevard. “That’s a big deal to not have to dodge potholes in the street,” he stated, emphasizing the relief felt by the classic car community. “It’s too expensive to fix, so you have to preserve what you have.”

The MTC’s report, released this month, highlights that average road conditions across the Bay Area have stagnated at a “fair” score of 67 out of 100. However, Hayward’s dedicated road improvement program has made it stand out. Public Works Director Alex Ameri noted that major projects, particularly along Mission Boulevard, have been completed in multiple phases, enhancing the overall driving experience.

Hayward’s roads have seen a total investment of $12.5 million this past year alone, funded through various sources, including the county’s Measure BB revenue and the California Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017. This funding has allowed repairs to be made on 65 roads, including Winton Avenue, a road that Shaffer describes as “100% better” than before.

The city has also adopted innovative tools like Street Saver, a software that helps track and predict road deterioration, allowing for smarter allocation of resources. As MTC spokesperson John Goodwin stated, “Street Saver allows a city like Hayward to predict the deterioration of a given stretch of pavement, and then make decisions on how best to use the available budget.”

Local improvements are not just unique to Hayward. Other cities like Larkspur have also reported notable advancements, boasting a PCI of 87 in 2024, up from 65 in 2020. However, Goodwin points out that while Larkspur has a smaller road network, Hayward’s progress is commendable given its extensive infrastructure.

The other major Bay Area cities have shown modest improvements as well, with San Jose rising from 66 to 73, San Francisco increasing from 74 to 75, and Oakland moving from 55 to 58.

Residents are eager for further improvements, as Hayward’s city council aims to elevate its PCI score to 80 in the coming years. “Consistent investment in roadway maintenance and repair will yield results,” Goodwin remarked, underscoring the potential for continued enhancement across the region.

As Hayward continues to prioritize road safety and quality, local car enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike are feeling the benefits of these improvements. The push for better roads is not just about infrastructure; it’s about preserving cherished vehicles and ensuring safe travel for all.

Stay tuned for more updates as Hayward works towards its ambitious road improvement goals.