Caltrans Repaving California-Oregon Border Highway

Meanwhile, wildfires continue to harm the state.

Source : Wikimedia

October 4, 2024

Author : Patty Allen

Caltrans is set to begin repaving a two-mile section of State Route 161, which runs along the California-Oregon border. Starting Sunday, September 22, the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) crews will begin work west of Tulelake, from just west of South Merrill Road to just east of Hill Road in Siskiyou County. The project is part of an ongoing effort to improve road conditions for both local drivers and freight hauliers who frequently use this important route.

The $2.6 million project will involve asphalt recycling, along with striping and shoulder work, aimed at making the highway smoother and safer for all who use it. According to Caltrans, the project is scheduled to start Sunday night at 9 p.m. and will continue into Monday, with one-way traffic control in place. Weekday work hours will run from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., with drivers facing potential delays of up to 15 minutes. The lead contractor for the project is Hat Creek Construction & Materials, Inc., and the work is expected to be completed by late October, pending weather conditions.

“This pavement project improves a section of State Route 161 that links State Route 139 and US 97 just south of the Oregon border,” said Caltrans District 2 Director Dave Moore. “Starting the effort in late September affords the Department time to complete work and have this roadway repaved before winter arrives.”

Caltrans has advised drivers to plan ahead for traffic delays during the project. Moreover, the agency has reminded the public that all construction projects are subject to change due to weather or unforeseen circumstances.

While this repaving project is improving a small but critical stretch of road, the state of California is making broader strides in modernizing its transportation infrastructure. Just recently, California was awarded $149.7 million by the U.S. Department of Transportation to support its zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) infrastructure development. This funding is part of a federal effort to combat climate change by encouraging the use of electric vehicles (EVs) and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

A significant portion of this funding will go toward the West Coast Truck Charging and Fueling Corridor Project, which aims to build charging stations for medium- and heavy-duty zero-emission vehicles along key freight routes in California, Oregon, and Washington. This project will cover 2,500 miles of freight corridors, including major routes that connect to the California-Oregon border, ensuring that goods can move efficiently between the states while reducing carbon emissions.

The new infrastructure will be essential in helping California meet its climate goals, as well as providing needed support for underserved and disadvantaged communities along these routes. “Decarbonizing the transportation and goods movement sectors is essential for fighting the climate crisis and protecting public health in communities along busy corridors,” said U.S. Senator Alex Padilla of California.

However, while California is making progress on its climate and transportation goals, the state continues to face challenges with its ongoing wildfire season. Recently, multiple wildfires have erupted in Southern California, fueled by blistering heat waves. Large plumes of smoke have filled the skies over parts of the region, as firefighters battle to contain at least three major fires. Tens of thousands of homes and structures are at risk as crews work around the clock to protect communities.

For more information on the State Route 161 repaving project, visit the Caltrans District 2 webpage or call (530) 225-3426. To stay up to date on the state’s road conditions, drivers can use the Caltrans QuickMap app.

Category : State Government Freeways and Highways

Related Article