Caltrans To Re-Open Southbound Lanes On State Route 99 Merced Pavement Rehabilitation Project
MERCED COUNTY – Caltrans announces key construction update for the State Route 99 Merced Pavement Rehabilitation Project through the City of Merced. The project, which began in the winter of 2021, is critical to repair the wear-and-tear that has created significant cracking, potholes, and other roadway damage over the years to this highly traveled state route.
Beginning on Thursday, April 4, 2024, at 5:00 a.m. Caltrans will reopen the State Route (SR-99) southbound lanes to traffic and permanently close the barricaded ‘tunnel’ lane. The ‘tunnel’ lane will remain in place for construction use only and closed to traffic while the project is completed over the next few weeks.
Caltrans anticipates upon completion later this spring that the rehabilitation project will ultimately improve the safety and ride quality for motorists and extend the life of Highway 99 through the city of Merced for up to 40 years. Motorists, passengers, truckers and commuters will notice a more comfortable ride after new concrete is installed to repair aging, damaged roadway along this busy corridor. This work will reduce the need for constant maintenance which would be more time-consuming and expensive.
Caltrans appreciates the patience and concerns of motorists traveling this corridor and want to encourage drivers to pay close attention to roadway signage, adhere to the posted speed limit, keep a safe distance between the vehicle in front of you, and pay close attention to your surroundings.
Caltrans also reminds motorists to #KnowBeforeYouGo by checking www.quickmap.dot.ca.gov for real-time highway conditions prior to travel.
For the safety of workers and other motorists, please Be Work Zone Alert.