Eureka-Arcata U.S. 101 Corridor Improvement

Caltrans has been making safety and operational improvements to U.S. 101 between Eureka and Arcata. These improvements include the Indianola Undercrossing which is now known at the Brad Mettam Memorial Interchange, a northbound traffic signal at Airport Road, acceleration and deceleration lane improvements, cable median barrier, bridge and rail replacements at Jacoby Creek and Gannon Slough, and tide gate replacements.

The corridor improvements are intended to reduce collision risks, reduce operational conflicts, improve access, and support safer travel for drivers, bicyclists, pedestrians, freight, emergency responders, and local communities.

Indianola Undercrossing/Brad Mettam Memorial Interchange

This undercrossing is designed to improve safety and traffic movement along one of Humboldt County’s most traveled corridors by separating Indianola Cutoff traffic from the U.S. 101 mainline. Instead of crossing highway traffic, drivers using Indianola Cutoff travel beneath U.S. 101 through the new interchange.

This milestone represents years of planning, design, construction, public input, and partnership. The new connection also supports improved access for people walking and biking, including connections to the Humboldt Bay Trail, and is part of the broader effort to make the Eureka-Arcata corridor safer and more reliable for all users.

The broader corridor improvement project remains scheduled for completion in 2026, conditions permitting.

The undercrossing has been designated by California lawmakers as the Brad Mettam Memorial Interchange.

Brad Mettam served the State of California for more than 20 years, including as Caltrans District 1 Deputy District Director for Planning and Local Assistance. He was widely respected for his leadership, mentorship, commitment to public service, and lasting contributions to transportation planning on the North Coast.

More to be done

Most improvements are now complete, including the Brad Mettam Memorial Interchange, acceleration and deceleration lane improvements, cable median barrier installation, bridge and rail replacements at Jacoby Creek and Gannon Slough, and tide gate replacements.

Remaining work includes the northbound traffic signal at Airport Road and planned median crossing closures at Mid-City Motors, the site of the old mill, Bracut, and Bayside Cutoff. These changes are intended to encourage use of the new undercrossing and reduce the number of places where vehicles cross or turn across U.S. 101 traffic.

Caltrans will continue evaluating the corridor’s long-term needs.

(Simulations of Indianola Undercrossing. Details subject to change.)