Slurry work presents a challenge for drivers on El Cerrito’s Potrero Avenue

 Drivers traveling on and around Potrero Avenue, particularly at intersections, have faced some interesting challenges in recent days as the city slurry seal project continues. 

A Facebook post by the City of El Cerrito tells drivers to “expect minor traffic delays and temporary lane adjustments in work zones.”

When that post was shared on El Cerrito Wire a commenter responded, “ ‘minor traffic delays’ is an offensive description of the s**t show I went through this morning. [Sept. 15.]”

The length of some of the blocks around Potrero Avenue and Arlington Boulevard has added to the challenge of navigating around the work, as does the proximity of two schools, Korematsu Middle School and Madera Elementary. 

According to the city Facebook post, the work is part of the city’s 2026 slurry seal Measure A-funded street improvement program and is in year two of a five-year pavement maintenance plan. 

The city’s goal is to bring El Cerrito streets up to a "good" quality rating citywide.

According to the city post, crews are working on 23 street segments in the vicinity of Potrero Avenue and the work includes:

• Patch paving and crack sealing

• Applying protective slurry seal treatments

• Installing enhanced traffic striping and pavement markings

• Adding neighborhood-requested traffic signs and safety upgrades at spot locations citywide

More information is available at: https://www.elcerrito.gov/1785/2026-Slurry-Seal-Project

Video taken 10:45 am Sept 16 at Navellier and Potrero.