Caltrans To Begin Intersection Improvement Project to Safeguard the Traveling Public in Merced County

Project Will Reduce Broadside Collisions & Improve Traffic Safety

Stockton – The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) is preparing to begin a construction project that will improve traffic safety along State Route 165 (SR-165) in Merced County.

Work will include shoulder widening and the installation of new traffic signals, pedestrian crosswalks, ADA ramps, drainage inlets, curbs, gutters, and sidewalks within the intersection of SR-165 and Geer Avenue in the community of Hilmar. Alternating lane closures and temporary traffic detours will be required at various stages of construction for the safety of motorists, roadway workers, and equipment.

Beginning Monday, March 9, 2026, crews will primarily work night shifts from 8:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. on SR-165, and day shifts from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Geer Avenue. The work is scheduled for approximately 65 working days - Mondays through Fridays - with completion expected in June 2026. In addition to weekly traffic advisories and roadside message signs will be placed along the highway to alert motorists of scheduled lane closures.

This $1.5 million project was awarded to Granite Construction, Inc. (Fresno, CA), who will perform the work required. This project will improve traffic safety within the intersection by reducing the severity and number of broadside collisions caused by the failure of motorists to yield to traffic.

The work schedule is subject to change due to traffic incidents, weather, availability of equipment and/or materials, and/or construction-related issues. For more information about transportation and other infrastructure projects funded with state and federal investments, visit RebuildingCA.ca.gov or Build.ca.gov.