Clean California project provides brighter, LED lighting portals in the Bay Area

Drivers traveling through some of the East Bay’s most iconic gateways will soon experience a brighter and more visually unified journey with the completion of the Clean California portal lighting project. 

The $7.34 million investment, funded entirely through Gov. Gavin Newsom’s statewide Clean California initiative, brings programmable architectural lighting to three of the region’s most iconic gateways: the Caldecott Tunnel, Posey Tube, and the Yerba Buena Island portal—key structures that serve millions of travelers each year. 

The project introduces modern LED lighting capable of shifting between white illumination and seasonal color displays, enhancing nighttime visibility while celebrating the architectural identity of each structure. These upgrades elevate the driving experience, unify the aesthetic of regional transportation corridors, and support statewide goals to beautify the state highway system. 

“This project represents an exciting step forward, demonstrating Caltrans’ commitment to improving the quality of life and the visual character of our transportation system,” said David Ambuehl, Caltrans District 4 Director. “The Bay Area’s portals are not only functional infrastructure, but also historic and cultural landmarks. Through the Clean California initiative, we are highlighting their unique architecture in a way that connects communities and enhances pride in our shared transportation network.”

Key project features:

• Unified Aesthetic: Creates a consistent visual experience across Bay Area gateways, reinforcing architectural identity and regional pride.
• Clean California Investment: Fully funded through the statewide initiative to beautify and improve public spaces along the state highway system.
• Programmable LED Lighting: New energy-efficient lighting capable of white or color displays for holidays, cultural celebrations, and community events.

Until now, lighting at these structures focused solely on operational illumination. This project elevates these gateways into visually cohesive landmarks that reinforce regional identity and create opportunities for community engagement through color-themed displays.