The first of three phases of the long-awaited rehabilitation of Sir Francis Drake Boulevard began this week. The first phase consists of repairing a slide along the edge of the roadway west of Shafter Bridge; preliminary work, such as the installation of portable message boards and fencing to protect sensitive vegetation and prevent materials from reaching Lagunitas Creek, is underway. An arborist and biologist will be on site to ensure environmental concerns are properly addressed. The entire project is estimated to be complete by early October.