Public Hearing Set on Proposed Highway 101 Carpool Lanes
The California Department of Transportation has scheduled a public hearing on a proposed project to construct six miles of High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV, or carpool) lanes on Highway 101, beginning about four miles south of the Ventura County/Santa Barbara County line and extending about two miles into Santa Barbara County.
Caltrans has completed an initial study/environmental assessment for the project and expects to complete the final environmental document this fall. Anticipated construction date is winter 2011, with the project expected to complete in summer 2015. The estimated cost is $151 million.
Three design alternatives are under consideration. Both build alternatives would include a Pedestrian Undercrossing (PUC) in the community of La Conchita; eliminating left turn median openings at Mussel Shoals, La Conchita and Tank Farm; installing Intelligent Traffic Systems (ITS); installing concrete barriers; and improving existing bicycle lanes.
Benefits of the HOV lanes include reducing congestion, improving traffic flow and facilitating the flow of goods and services.
At the hearing, the public will have the opportunity to view the proposed plans and make comments. Qualified staff will be on hand to answer questions and discuss issues related to ongoing congestion relief efforts along Highway 101.
Jim Shivers is a Caltrans public information officer.
» wrote on 09/07/08 @ 02:32 PM
This small portion of 101 widening is “expected to complete in summer 2015.....estimated cost is $151M”.
Doesn’t this just move the gridlock down the road? And aren’t estimates for full widening from Milpas to the county line going to total at least $1B when it’s finally done? The generally accepted time frame for complete widening is 20-25 years
The numerous studies for a proposed commuter rail service between Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties have shown that it could be up and running in 3-5 years for many millions less than this partial widening project. The scalable service could add rail cars to meet demand, and along with other commuter options, would be the equivalent of a third lane.
Isn’t it time for a change? We the people are paying for an ineffectual Regional Transportation Program (RTP).
Has the status quo ever looked more ridiculous?
» wrote on 09/07/08 @ 11:13 AM
Let me get this straight.. We have a traffic flow problem because there are too many cars on too few lanes.. NOW they want to spend a billion dollars to add a lane to only benefit very few cars which obviously will NOT solve the problem.. Just another liberal sponsored solution that is an absolute joke. ! PLEASE show up to the community meeting and voice your anger at a ridiculous solution.