A Little History
Over the years...
The San Andreas Merchants Association (SAM) was formed in 1994 to support its members and help mobilize resources for the benefit of the community. Since its creation, SAM has spearheaded numerous projects aimed at enhancing the quality of life in San Andreas. Some notable achievements are listed below.
Underground Wiring
In 1998, SAM undertook a project to dramatically improve the appearance of San Andreas by successfully seeking Title 20 funds to replace the maze of overhead wires over St. Charles/Hwy 49. The underground wiring project was an incredible aesthetic improvement. SAM continues to lobby for the completion of Phase 2, burying the remaining lines from Main St. to Gold Oak Rd.
Holiday Decorations
For decades, SAM has been decorating San Andreas for the holidays. In 2023, SAM held a successful corporate sponsorship drive to raise funds for new holiday decorations for San Andreas. With the help of sponsors like Mark Twain Medical Center/ Dignity Health, Calaveras Arts Council, and the Calaveras County Board of Supervisors, SAM purchased brand new holiday banners for the lamp posts on St. Charles/Hwy 49, a new skyline garland for historic Main St., and bows and garland for the entrance to the government center.
Gateway Monuments
Working with our local 4-H group and community volunteers, SAM helped to redesign and construct a new Welcome to San Andreas monument at the end of town, welcoming visitors and enhancing civic pride.
Community Grants
In 2007, SAM applied for and received a San Andreas Rural Livable Mobility Grant through the Calaveras Council of Governments. SAM continues to work with local governments to implement elements of the plan.
Other past projects include:
Trash and Recycling Bins on St. Charles/Hwy 49: Promoting cleanliness and sustainability.
Lights on Main Street: Illuminating the heart of San Andreas.
Tree Project of 2005: Creating greenery and shade.