Caltrans Adds Safety Measures on Highway 99 near Neal Road

Published:

California State Route 99

District:  District 3 - Marysville
Contact:  Gilbert Mohtes-Chan
Phone:  (530) 741-4571; (530) 682-6145

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

BUTTE COUNTY — Caltrans is increasing efforts to remind motorists to be alert for vehicles slowing down or stopped for the traffic signals at the intersection of State Highway 99 and Neal Road south of Chico.

In the past week, Caltrans placed portable roadside message boards on northbound Highway 99 alerting drivers approaching the intersection there is a traffic signal ahead. These message boards supplements existing flashing beacon warning signs.

Maintenance crews have also installed rumble-striping across the roadway to produce an audible and visual warning to inattentive drivers that there is a traffic signal ahead. Within the next 30 days, Caltrans plans to bring in a pavement grinder to install permanent rumble strip-type grooves into the roadway.

In addition, Caltrans plans to install a real-time traffic detection system on northbound Highway 99 just before Neal Road during the 2021 construction season. This automatic system informs drivers that there is stop-and-go traffic ahead.

These measures are aimed at increasing safety around the intersection, where a recent multi-vehicle crash resulted in two fatalities.

“Caltrans is committed to the safety and maintenance of the state highway system. These collisions were deeply tragic, and we offer our condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives,” said  Caltrans District 3 Director Amarjeet S. Benipal.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 94 percent of all motor vehicle crashes have a “human behavior component.” 

“Through engineering, enforcement and education, we all can work toward ending preventable crashes caused by drivers, including distracted driving, speeding and impaired driving.  Let’s make it a priority to be safe,” Benipal said.

Caltrans District 3 is responsible for maintaining and operating 4,385 lane miles in 11 Sacramento Valley and Northern Sierra counties. For construction project updates, follow Caltrans District 3  on Twitter @CaltransDist3 and on Facebook at CaltransDistrict3. For real-time traffic, click on Caltrans’ QuickMap or download the QuickMap app from the App Store or Google Play.

 

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