Schroder Administration Building Dedicated; Honors Father, Son Duo

CONCORD, CA— In a Thursday morning ceremony, County Connection dedicated the Schroder Administration Building in honor of Robert "Bob" Schroder and his son, Robert "Rob" Schroder.

The newly named building at County Connection headquarters on Arnold Industrial Way in Concord recognizes the Schroders' exceptional service to the community and their unwavering commitment to public transportation in Contra Costa County, the agency said.

The elder Schroder, Bob, was born in 1928 and moved to Walnut Creek with his family in 1930. Bob remained a Walnut Creek resident throughout his life. He died at age 90 in 2019 after a long life of public service. In addition to being a founding father of the Central Contra Costa Transit Authority, known as County Connection, Bob was a businessperson and a civic leader. From 1980 to 1998, he served on County Connection's Board of Directors. He also served 16 years on the Walnut Creek City Council, 16 years on the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors, and held a seat on the Metropolitan Transportation Commission.

Bob's foresight allowed for broader collaboration among local cities, making public transportation more accessible for all East Bay residents. This earned him the nickname "Mr. Transportation." His legacy was immortalized with the "Robert I. Schroder" bridge over Treat Boulevard in Walnut Creek and now at County Connection's headquarters.

Bob's son, Rob Schroder, is a Martinez resident and a public servant in his own right. Rob recently retired from the County Connection Board of Directors, where he served from 1998 to 2024. Rob also served as mayor and councilmember for the city of Martinez, where he is credited with transforming city finances, revitalizing parks and public facilities, and launching initiatives that support local businesses—solidifying his status as a true champion for the community and its residents.

"For the first time in 44 years, we will not have a Schroder sitting on our Board of Directors," said Bill Churchill, general manager of County Connection. "The Schroders embody the essence of civic leadership, and they recognized that advocating for public transit is a vital investment in economic and community growth."

Churchill, who has been with the Authority for 30 years, worked with Bob and Rob.

"In public transit, we strive to ensure reliable and accessible transit for all," Churchill said. "The Schroders truly understood that mission."

The Schroder Administration Building is now a tribute to Bob and Rob Schroders' time, talents, and shared vision for enhancing public transportation and community development in Contra Costa County.