Caltrans, the City of Napa and the Napa Valley Transportation Authority (NVTA) broke ground on Monday, June 3, on the first roundabouts to be constructed in Napa Valley. Three roundabouts will be constructed on State Route 29 (SR-29) in the City of Napa near First Street and California Boulevard, converting existing traffic signals and stop signs to roundabouts.
“Roundabouts provide critical solutions to two major transportation needs: easing traffic congestion and improving public safety,” said Caltrans Bay Area Director Tony Tavares. “This partnership project makes travel safer and more enjoyable for drivers and pedestrians and is emblematic of Caltrans’ mission to improve livability for California’s residents and visitors.”
The project will construct one roundabout at the intersection of the northbound SR-29/SR-128 off-ramp at First Street, another at the intersection of First Street and California Boulevard, and a third roundabout at the intersection of second Street and California Boulevard. The roundabouts will also improve mobility for pedestrians with new sidewalks, ADA upgrades and pedestrian crossing lights.
In a collaborative effort, Caltrans and the City of Napa are working together on the design and construction of these roundabouts with the shared goal of creating a fluid system and increasing public service.
“I am excited that through creativity, collaboration and cooperation, we made this project happen,” said Napa Mayor Jill Techel. “Our community will benefit from improved safety and ease of travel through one of our most well-traveled intersections and streets.”
Kate Miller, Executive Director of the NVTA, said, “The Napa Valley Transportation Authority is proud to partner with Caltrans and the City of Napa on the SB-29/California/1st and 2nd Street roundabouts. “The NVTA has contributed $4 million in state and federal highway funds to the project,” Miller added. Describing the project as “transformative for Napa,” Miller added that the roundabout will greatly improve the operations and safety at these intersections, “significantly improving traffic flow through the area and creating a statement gateway to downtown Napa.”
Caltrans, the City of Napa and NVTA thank residents and visitors in advance for their patience during upcoming construction. Traffic delays should be expected during construction of the roundabouts due to construction staging requiring several changes to traffic patterns. Bicycle traffic will be sharing the main traffic lanes within the project limits.
The project cost is an estimated $19.3 million. Construction work is beginning in June 2019 with anticipated completion in fall of 2020.
Learn more about the project here.
Project Contacts:
Janis Mara, Caltrans District 4
(510) 622-5978
[email protected]
Jaina French, City of Napa
(707) 258-7843
[email protected]