Someday soon, you will no longer be able to cross Highway 101 at Bayside Cutoff. | Photos: Caltrans District 1


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Facebook post from Caltrans District 1:

(EUREKA-ARCATA) EXPECT 101 CORRIDOR CHANGES SOON: Crews are almost finished constructing the Eureka-Arcata U.S. 101 Corridor Improvement Project, and we’re set to begin closing four median crossings during night work starting Sunday, July 19.

The median crossings at Bayside Cutoff, Bracut, the old mill and Mid-City Motors will be removed to help reduce collisions and improve safety. This won’t close Bayside Cutoff or the other connecting roads, but vehicles will no longer be able to cross 101 at those locations, which have long collision histories well above the state average.

These changes have been publicly planned for more than two decades. Median closures were identified in project planning documents beginning in 2001, followed by public open houses in 2001 and 2003, environmental review and public comment periods, newspaper notices, a public hearing in 2007 and another open house in 2008. Public input helped shape features, including the Indianola Undercrossing and northbound half signal at Jacobs Ave./Airport Road, and Caltrans has also coordinated with local emergency responders regarding changes to access.

As work continues, travelers should expect single-lane closures in both directions. Please watch for updated signs and consider adapting nighttime commutes.

The half signal currently in the works at Jacobs Avenue.

Electrical work is also wrapping up on the new Jacobs Ave./Airport Road half signal. Once operational, the signal will stop northbound U.S. 101 traffic to facilitate several movements, including southbound left turns, southbound-to-northbound U-turns and access from Jacobs Ave./Airport Road to the southbound U.S. 101 auxiliary lane. Activation is currently expected in early August.
Signage updates are also planned in anticipation of this completed project.

Please slow down, stay alert and give crews room to work as we move closer to completing these long-planned safety improvements.