SR-163/Friars Road Interchange Project

Fact Sheet

The project

The State Route 163/Friars Road Interchange project is funded by the city of San Diego.

The construction contract will be administered by Caltrans and will be constructed in three phases. Phase 1 is scheduled to begin in 2017 and will take approximately two years to complete. Phases 2 and 3 will be scheduled as funding becomes available.

Phase 1:

Construction includes widening the State Route 163 (SR-163) Friars Road overcrossing from three to four lanes in each direction and improvements to the SR-163 on- and off-ramps and on Frazee Road. This phase will also construct a southbound SR-163 auxiliary lane just north of Friars Road.

Improvements for bicyclists and pedestrians in this phase include providing a bike lane and sidewalk on both eastbound and west-bound Friars Road in addition to on-and off-ramp modifications to eliminate the ’free right’ moves.

Phase 2:

Pending Project Funding Construct a new collector ramp from southbound SR-163 to west-bound Interstate 8 (I-8) and a new flyover entrance ramp from Ulric Street to southbound SR-163 to reduce weaving.

Phase 3:

Pending Project Funding Construct two southbound SR-163 auxiliary lanes from Genesee Avenue to Friars Road. Construct a northbound SR-163 auxiliary lane for motorists entering the freeway from Friars Road.

The need

• Extensive residential and commercial development has increased traffic demand at this interchange causing significant traffic delays.
• Seasonal activities at Fashion Valley Mall and events at Qualcomm Stadium further exacerbate these conditions.
• During peak travel times, vehicles slow due to excessive traffic demand and existing weaving conditions on southbound SR-163 at Friars Road and at I-8.

Goals

• Modify the interchange to improve traffic operations in the area
• Provide improved access for bicyclists and pedestrians; and
• Minimize weaving on south-bound SR-163 between Friars Road and I-8.

Cost

• Phase 1 Construction Cost: $40 million
• Phases 2 & 3 Construction Cost: $71 million
• Total estimated Construction Cost: $111 million

For more information contact Charles Gray at charles.gray@dot.ca.gov