“So far I am very impressed with the progress that has been made on this important project..."

LIVE OAK, CA (MPG) - Caltrans is entering the final stage of construction on a Highway 99 safety and roadway improvement project in Live Oak, which is expected to be completed by December 2021. Funded in part by $2.3 million from Senate Bill (SB) 1, the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017, and a $10 million federal Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) grant, the $36 million project will also improve access for pedestrians and bicyclists.

“This much-needed Highway 99 project is in the home stretch toward completion by the end of this year,” said Caltrans Director Toks Omishakin. “This SB 1 project illustrates how Caltrans works with local cities to leverage federal, state and local funds to fix our aging roadways and improve safety and access for pedestrians and bicyclists throughout the state.”

The project began in July 2020, and improvements include highly visible crosswalks, separated pedestrian facilities that meet Americans with Disabilities Act standards, and improved local street connections.

Rep. John Garamendi (D-CA), who advocated for the city of Live Oak’s successful federal grant application, will tour the project Friday, September 17 with state and local officials to get a close-up look at the final stages of construction.

“So far I am very impressed with the progress that has been made on this important project that will revitalize Live Oak’s downtown core,” said Garamendi. “The improvements to the city’s ‘main street’ and commercial corridor will serve as a foundation for future economic growth in the community and the region.”

Since 2009, the U.S. Department of Transportation has invested more than $8.9 billion in national infrastructure projects through grant programs such as TIGER, which leverage state, regional and local funding to build and repair critical pieces of freight and passenger transportation networks.

“Our Caltrans team and the contractor’s crews are making incredible progress,” said Caltrans District 3 Director Amarjeet S. Benipal. “We understand construction has been an inconvenience and appreciate everyone’s patience as we work to make travel through Live Oak easier and safer than ever.”

Caltrans reminds motorists to Be Work Zone Alert and that the contractor is maintaining access to businesses in the construction area. During this current construction stage, customers should use Broadway to access businesses and services on Pennington Road west.

Visit www.LiveOak99.com for the latest news and updates as well as maps showing access to businesses in the construction area. The project also has a Facebook page: facebook.com/LiveOak99/ with the latest information, and follow the project’s progress on twitter.com/Live_Oak_99

SB 1 provides $5 billion in transportation funding annually split between the state and local agencies. Road projects progress through construction phases more quickly based on the availability of SB 1 funds, including projects that are partially funded by SB 1. For more information about other transportation projects funded by SB 1, visit rebuildingca.ca.gov.