Granite to Rebuild Caldwell Ave Interchange on SR99
Granite has been awarded a significant contract worth approximately $66 million by the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) for a major infrastructure project aimed at enhancing the Caldwell Avenue interchange on State Route 99 (SR99) in Visalia, California. This project, which is funded through both state and federal sources, is set to improve traffic flow, safety, and accessibility for motorists in the region. Granite has confirmed that the contract will be included in its first-quarter Committed and Awarded Projects (CAP), reinforcing its ongoing efforts to modernize transportation infrastructure in California.
Project Scope and Key Features
The Caldwell Avenue interchange reconstruction project will involve a series of upgrades designed to enhance the efficiency and safety of the interchange. The primary components of the project include the construction of two new precast girder bridges, one of which will be a two-span structure over SR99, while the other will be a single-span structure crossing the Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) tracks. These new bridges will be constructed to accommodate higher traffic volumes and provide improved connectivity for local and regional commuters.
Additionally, the project will feature the construction of 12 new retaining walls, incorporating different engineering techniques to enhance structural integrity. These retaining walls will include cast-in-place concrete walls, mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) walls, and soldier pile walls with timber lagging. These elements will work together to ensure stability in areas where the roadway elevation changes significantly.
To further streamline traffic flow and increase safety, four new on/off ramps will be built, strategically designed to enhance accessibility for motorists entering and exiting the highway. The traffic at these ramps will be controlled using newly constructed roundabouts at each set of ramps. Roundabouts have been proven to reduce the severity of accidents by eliminating direct head-on and right-angle collisions, making them an effective alternative to traditional signalized intersections.
The comprehensive scope of this project demonstrates Caltrans’ commitment to modernizing California’s transportation network and ensuring long-term infrastructure resilience. This project aligns with Granite’s expertise in civil construction and infrastructure development, reinforcing its reputation as a trusted partner in public works projects.
Synergies with Tulare Pavement Rehabilitation Project
The Caldwell Avenue interchange project is strategically located near another infrastructure initiative, the Tulare pavement rehabilitation project, which Granite is scheduled to work on in 2025. These two projects create operational synergies, allowing for optimized resource allocation and project management efficiencies.
Jeff Grimm, Area Manager at Granite, expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating, “Our team is committed to enhancing infrastructure and improving safety for our community and the traveling public. This project is near another pavement rehabilitation project in Tulare that we will be working on in 2025, creating synergies between the two projects.”
The proximity of these projects allows Granite to leverage shared resources, expertise, and personnel, ultimately improving cost-effectiveness and project timelines. The ability to integrate work across multiple sites helps reduce disruptions to the public while ensuring the highest standards of quality and efficiency.
Engineering and Construction Details
One of the critical aspects of the Caldwell Avenue interchange reconstruction project is the need for substantial earthwork to accommodate the widened roadways and new bridge structures. Approximately 216,000 cubic yards of import borrow material will be utilized to build embankments that support the expanded roadways. This earthwork is essential in preparing the site for the new infrastructure and ensuring long-term stability.
In addition to roadway expansions, the project will include significant drainage system upgrades to manage stormwater effectively and prevent flooding. Proper drainage is crucial in maintaining road durability and ensuring safe driving conditions, particularly during heavy rainfall.
The project scope also includes installing new pavement delineation and roadside signage to enhance navigation and improve driver awareness. Highway electrical components, such as lighting and signal systems, will be replaced to meet modern energy efficiency and safety standards.
Expected Timeline and Construction Phases
The construction phase of the Caldwell Avenue interchange reconstruction project is expected to begin in August 2025, with an anticipated completion date in the second quarter of 2027. This timeline reflects the extensive nature of the work involved and the need to coordinate multiple phases of construction efficiently.
The project will be executed in phases to minimize traffic disruptions and ensure public safety. Temporary detours and lane closures will be strategically planned and communicated in advance to help motorists navigate construction zones with minimal inconvenience. Granite will work closely with Caltrans and local authorities to implement effective traffic management strategies throughout the project’s duration.
Enhancing Safety and Connectivity
One of the primary objectives of the Caldwell Avenue interchange reconstruction project is to improve safety for both motorists and pedestrians. By replacing aging infrastructure and introducing modern design elements such as roundabouts, the project aims to reduce congestion and enhance overall road safety.
The newly constructed bridges will also play a crucial role in facilitating smooth traffic flow and providing uninterrupted access for commuters, commercial transporters, and emergency services. In addition, the improved interchange will enhance connectivity between residential neighborhoods, commercial areas, and industrial zones, fostering economic growth and development in the region.
Granite’s approach to this project reflects its commitment to sustainable construction practices, incorporating environmentally responsible methods to minimize the project’s ecological impact. By implementing erosion control measures and using recycled materials where possible, Granite aims to balance infrastructure development with environmental stewardship.
