Wellsona Safety Improvements
Project Description
Caltrans proposes to construct an undercrossing beneath Highway 101 south of the existing intersection, eliminating the need for motorists to make left turns across traffic on Highway 101. This would prevent future broadside and left-turn merge-related collisions at the intersection. The proposed undercrossing would consist of a 112-foot-long bridge on Highway 101 matching the existing roadway geometry. Frontage roads would be constructed to connect the undercrossing with Wellsona Road on either side of Highway 101. Full closure of either Highway 101 or Wellsona Road is not anticipated for the project. The undercrossing would be constructed within the State right-of-way; however, the purchase of right-of-way would be required to construct the frontage roads that connect with Wellsona Road.
Project Benefits
Purpose: The purpose of the project is to reduce the number and severity of collisions at the intersection of Highway 101 and Wellsona Road in San Luis Obispo County.
Need: The intersection of Highway 101 and Wellsona Road is experiencing a pattern of broadside and left-turn merge-related collisions as documented through the Caltrans Traffic Accident Surveillance and Analysis System (TASAS). The intersection has had a concentration of collisions related to drivers not yielding to the right of way. In the most recent 5-year period, this intersection has experienced 16 collisions; of these, 14 were multi-vehicle collisions and 3 were fatal collisions. Based on the analysis of accident statistics, the traffic collision rate at this location is higher than the statewide average and Caltrans determined that action would be required to reduce the potential for collisions at this intersection.
Funding Breakdown
- Local: no
- State: yes
- Federal: yes
- Estimated Total Project Cost: $13.5 Million
Proposed Project Schedule
- Environmental document to be completed: 2/18/20
- Right of way acquisition to be completed: 2022/2023
- Advertise: 2023/2024
- Construction to begin: 2024
- Construction to be completed: 2025/2026
Contact
District 5 Public Affairs
Phone: (805) 549-3111
Email: info-d5@dot.ca.gov