A project to replace the northbound and southbound bridges at Refugio Road along US 101 near Refugio State Beach will begin construction in October.

The new concrete bridges would have nearly the same alignment, profile, and lane configuration as the existing bridges, but will be seven feet wider to accommodate standard 10-foot shoulders, according to Caltrans.

In early October, temporary concrete barriers will be placed on both bridges, eliminating the southbound inside shoulder, and the northbound No. 1 (right) lane.

In late November, a new, temporary traffic alignment will be put into place where both directions of traffic will be moved to the northbound bridge. Bicycle detours in both directions will be in place at this time.

This temporary traffic alignment will remain in place until November 2025. Both directions of traffic will then be switched to the southbound bridge to continue construction.   

Construction work is scheduled to take place five days per week.eTravelers will encounter intermittent lane closures and flagging on Refugio Road throughout the project. 

The project also includes upgrading bridge rails on the northbound U.S. 101 on-ramp bridge, rehabilitating the existing pedestrian pathway beneath the bridges, and updating the lighting system through the project limits.

Contractor for the $56 million project is MCM Construction, Inc. of North Highlands, California. 

For project information and the Environmental Impact Report, visit https://dot.ca.gov/caltrans-near-me/district-5/district-5-current-projects/refugio-road-undercrossing-bridges-replacement-project