A project to replace the northbound and southbound bridges at Refugio Road along US 101 near Refugio State Beach will result in a new traffic alignment beginning on Wednesday, Dec. 4 and remaining in place until October.

The new, temporary alignment will re-direct both directions of traffic onto the northbound bridge to allow for the demolition and replacement of the southbound bridge.

Bicycle detours in both directions will be in place as well.

In October both directions of traffic will be switched to the southbound bridge to continue construction.

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.

Travelers will encounter intermittent lane closures and flagging on Refugio Road throughout the project.

This project includes upgrading bridge rails on the northbound US 101 on-ramp; 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.

Project information and the Environmental Impact Report can be found on the project website.