Background

SR 49 and SR 20 provide lifeline accessibility for interregional movement of people, goods, agriculture, and recreation. Traffic on SR 49 and SR 20 is a mixture of local and visitor vehicles traveling to residential sites, commercial establishments, and recreational facilities. These highways are also considered an alternative route during closures on Interstate 80 (I-80).

Project Overview

The project will be evaluating alternative intersection control measures such as a roundabout or traffic signal. The roundabout configuration would be a multi-lane roundabout with an eastbound bypass lane. (Caltrans Project Number: 03-1N900)

Purpose

The purpose of this project is to reduce the number of collisions related to turning movements at the SR 20/SR 49 and Uren Street intersection.

Need

The current configuration of the SR 20/SR 49 and Uren Street intersection creates conflict points between multiple turning movements, which can contribute to less predictable traffic flow and an increased potential for vehicle conflicts. Over a five year period (April 1, 2019 to March 31, 2024), the collision data at this intersection identified a total of 23 collisions, including one serious injury. The primary collision factor is "failure to yield" and the predominant type of collision is "broadside."

Funding

This project was programmed at the March 2026 California Transportation Commission (CTC) meeting and has been funded by the State Highway Operation and Protection Program (SHOPP). The CTC is responsible for programming and allocating funds for the construction of highway, passenger rail, transit and active transportation improvements throughout California. 

Total Project Cost Estimate: $10,070,000

Partnership

Caltrans is working with the Nevada County Transportation Commission (NCTC), Nevada City, and Nevada County. 

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