State Route 32 Widening and Multi-Modal Improvements Project, Phases 1 & 2 (Finalist)

The State Route (SR) 32 Widening and Multi-Modal Improvements Project, Phases 1 and 2 is deserving of the Outstanding Local Streets and Roads Project award because it is an excellent example of improving traffic operations and capacity, while also enhancing safe and viable transportation alternatives; thereby meeting statewide goals to improve air quality, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and reduce the consumption of natural resources. The project, located within the City of Chico (City) urban core, involves widening the roadway from two to four lanes, improving the functionality of the transportation corridor with the installation of ADA compliant pedestrian ramps, crossings and sidewalks, and enhancing transit and adjacent park-and-ride facilities that service the multi-functional transportation hub located immediately adjacent to the SR 32 and SR 99 interchange. It also closes a key bicycle and pedestrian facilities gap in the heavily trafficked area, serving the multi-modal needs of residents and students. Major infrastructure improvements include widening the road and associated bridge over Dead Horse Slough from two to four lanes, incorporating bike lanes, installing a context-sensitive landscaped center median and constructing aesthetically treated sound walls. Furthermore, modifications were also made to the SR 99 ramps and intersection improvements at Fir Street, Forest Avenue, and El Monte Avenue were constructed. Another major component was the improvement of bicycle, pedestrian, and multi-modal transportation alternatives for the enhanced mitigation of air quality / greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) generated from the adjacent Butte County Association of Governments’ (BCAG) SR 99 Auxiliary Lane Project. While an extensive bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure network exists throughout the community, the physical barrier created by SR 32 bifurcates the north and south halves of the system. Consistent with local and statewide “complete streets” goals, construction of the project closed this infrastructure gap creating safe passage for bicycle and pedestrian commuters, students, and recreational riders. These infrastructure enhancements also provide greater access to the regionally significant Bidwell Park, neighborhoods both east and west of SR 99, and the park-and-ride lot, bicycle parking and lockers, and transit stop which are all situated within the SR 32 center island at Fir Street. The project is consistent with local, state and federal plans and meets statewide environmental goals of decreasing air pollution, reducing the consumption of natural resources and energy, and increasing adaptability to climate change. The multi-modal, ADA compliant improvements located within a heavily traveled SR 99/SR 32 interchange within the City will provide direct benefit to a large segment of the community.