Graffiti at the railroad crossing near the 101 freeway and Mulberry has become a persistent issue, prompting city leaders to seek solutions. During a recent City Council Budget Study Session, concerns were raised about the ongoing maintenance of this site, which is owned by Union Pacific. The responsibility for graffiti removal falls under a maintenance agreement with Caltrans, which has faced criticism for its slow response to clean-up efforts.

City officials highlighted the frustration surrounding the lack of action from Caltrans, with Mayor Sam Liccardo reportedly pressuring District 4 to address the problem. The discussion revealed that while Caltrans is responsible for the exterior maintenance of the structure, the city has limited influence over the situation. In contrast, another railroad bridge further south, owned by VTA, has seen more effective maintenance and graffiti removal.

Council members expressed hope that collaboration between the mayor's office and local beautification initiatives could lead to improvements. Additionally, there are ongoing efforts to secure funding from state representatives, including Senator Cortese, aimed at enhancing the overall aesthetics of the area and addressing issues of unsheltered individuals and blight.

As the city continues to advocate for better maintenance and beautification, the importance of holding Caltrans accountable for its service level agreements remains a key focus. The council emphasized the need for timely responses to maintenance reports, aiming to improve the community's visual landscape and overall quality of life.