Midday Highway Closures Planned for U.S. 199 and Route 197
Caltrans project could bring four-hour weekday delays starting as early as May
Visuals here include a rendering of the new bridge planned for the corridor (cover), as well as an image of the overhanging rock in the Patrick Creek Narrows that will be removed as part of the project. (Images: CalTrans)
DEL NORTE COUNTY, Calif. — Travelers along U.S. Highway 199 and State Route 197 should prepare for significant midday closures beginning as early as May as Caltrans begins major safety and infrastructure upgrades along the corridor.
The work is part of the 199/197 Safe STAA Access Highway Improvement Project, which aims to bring the route up to national standards for large trucks while improving safety for all motorists.
According to Caltrans, closures are tentatively scheduled for Tuesdays through Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The four-hour closures are expected to continue for approximately one year once construction begins. Additional traffic controls, including signal systems and flagging operations, will also be used throughout the project.
The broader project, currently expected to be completed in late 2029, includes highway realignments, bridge construction, drainage improvements, pavement upgrades, and new guardrails at multiple locations.
Officials say some sections of the work will require rock excavation, presplitting, and controlled blasting. Crews will also install cable drapery systems to stabilize slopes, including work planned in the Patrick Creek Narrows where overhanging rock is scheduled for removal.
Caltrans said exact closure dates will be announced once schedules are finalized. Updates will be shared with the public and stakeholders as construction approaches.
Travelers are encouraged to monitor conditions using the QuickMap app and the Caltrans District 1 Road Information Bulletin before traveling through the area.
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