A Caltrans map identifies the proposed safety improvement project at Highway 99 and Rio Bonito Road, about a mile east of Biggs. The agency expects to select a design by fall 2027 and complete construction by fall 2029. Map courtesy of Caltrans

BIGGS, CA (MPG) – Fifteen broadside collisions in five years have put Highway 99 and Rio Bonito Road in line for major safety improvements, but one proposed solution is raising concerns that heavy truck traffic could be diverted through Biggs.

Caltrans is considering two alternatives for the intersection, either a single-lane roundabout or a traffic signal. The project, estimated to cost $7.5 million to $12 million, was presented to the Biggs City Council on Oct. 13. Caltrans officials said a preferred option will be selected following further environmental and technical review.

Caltrans project manager Mary Fesliyan said both alternatives remain under equal consideration. A roundabout would include a truck apron for oversized vehicles and reduce approach speeds, while a traffic signal would control turning movements and improve visibility. Each option will be evaluated for effects on nearby properties, business access, future development and agricultural traffic.

“We definitely want to be sensitive to the farm vehicles going there because it is a large part of the community,” Fesliyan said.

A traffic signal is one of two alternatives Caltrans is considering to improve safety at the intersection of Highway 99 and Rio Bonito Road east of Biggs. The project follows 15 broadside collisions recorded over five years. Photo courtesy of Caltrans

The intersection, located about a mile east of Biggs, has stop signs on Rio Bonito Road while Highway 99 traffic travels without stopping. Fesliyan said the collisions recorded between April 1, 2019, and March 31, 2024, involved vehicles failing to yield. The agency reported a 2024 average daily traffic count of 13,570 vehicles.

Caltrans expects to select an option and complete environmental review by fall 2027, finish final design by fall 2028 and complete construction by fall 2029. Fesliyan said either design would also consider advance warning signs and ways to slow approaching vehicles. Funding will come from the State Highway Operation and Protection Program, she said.

Mayor James “Bo” Shephard said concerns about the intersection have persisted for years and questioned whether the 2024 vehicle count accurately reflects current conditions.

“It does seem like traffic on 99 here has really picked up in the last couple years,” Shephard said, suggesting Caltrans gather updated figures before selecting a design.

Councilmember Anita Wilks raised concerns about how a roundabout might affect travel patterns in the agricultural community.

An aerial illustration shows a proposed single-lane roundabout at Highway 99 and Rio Bonito Road. Some Biggs officials worry the design could divert trucks and agricultural equipment through city streets. Photo courtesy of Caltrans

“One of the comments that I've heard is that perhaps the truck drivers or other farm equipment might try to avoid it if it's a roundabout and come through town,” Wilks said.

Wilks warned such a detour would send more heavy vehicles past the elementary school, a possibility that has raised concerns among residents.

Donna Bayless, who lives near the proposed project, urged Caltrans to address vehicle speeds now, regardless of which alternative is chosen.

“I mean, it's a racetrack out there and nobody knows the speed limit,” Bayless said.

Another speaker requested flashing warning signs as an interim safety measure until construction begins.

Residents can submit comments through a survey open through Dec. 31 at engage.dot.ca.gov/03-0n010. Wilks encouraged residents to participate in the Caltrans survey to ensure their concerns and preferences are considered before a final decision is made.

Caltrans said public input will be considered, although the agency will make the final selection based on technical studies and other factors.