Highway 99 interchange work begins in Visalia
The $71 million project, 25 years in the making, will install roundabouts and new lanes to ease traffic congestion.
By Hassan Lawson ·
Construction started Friday on a major upgrade to the Caldwell Avenue Interchange on Highway 99 in Visalia. The work aims to cut down traffic jams and make the roadway safer for drivers navigating the corridor.
Caltrans District 6 Director Michael Navarro announced the start of the project at a ceremony with local leaders. The total cost exceeds $71 million. It took more than 25 years to move from planning to the construction phase.
Navarro credited multiple funding sources for making the build possible. These include Measure R, federal money, and state dollars. He noted that the project involves cooperation with the Tulare County Association of Governments, Tulare County, and the City of Visalia.
The design features roundabouts at every ramp intersection. This is the first time the district will use roundabouts for traffic control in the valley. Officials also plan to build new overcrossing structures and add auxiliary lanes.
Tulare County Supervisor Dennis Townsend said the effort reflects long-term commitment from local partners. He noted that work on the interchange began before he took office. Townsend expects the changes to help move people from the west and center of the county into communities like Farmersville and Exeter.
Project officials target a completion date in the summer of 2028.
Source: ABC30 Action News
