Purpose: 

The purpose of this project is to significantly reduce the frequency and severity of high-speed multi-vehicle and right-angle collisions occurring at the intersection of State Route 44 and Silver Bridge Road through design improvements.

Need:

The intersection of State Route 44 and Silver Bridge Road is experiencing increasing traffic demands and operational challenges that affect both mobility and safety for the traveling public. Existing roadway conditions can lead to congestion, delays, and difficulty navigating the intersection, particularly during peak travel periods and for larger vehicles. Improvements are needed to enhance traffic flow, accommodate current and future transportation needs, and provide a safer, more efficient intersection for all users.

There is also a demonstrated safety need at this location. Between April 24, 2020, and April 23, 2025, nine collisions were reported at the intersection, including one fatal collision and seven injury collisions. Collision types included broadside, rear-end, head-on, and hit-object crashes. The intersection’s fatal-plus-injury collision rate is approximately three times higher than the statewide average for similar facilities, while the overall collision rate is approximately one and a half times higher than the statewide average. These improvements are intended to reduce the potential for severe collisions and improve overall safety for motorists traveling through the area.

Project Overview: 

This project proposes to construct a single lane roundabout at the intersection of State Route 44 and Silver Bridge Road to replace the current 2-way-stop-controlled intersection. This new roundabout will help improve traffic flow and safety for all travelers.

Key features of the project include:

  • Constructing a center island, raised concrete median, and splitter islands designed to safely accommodate large trucks and permitted vehicles while helping slow and guide traffic through the roundabout.

  • Realigning the main road and side streets to better connect with the new roundabout and repaving nearby roadway sections for a smoother drive.

  • Installing updated striping, pavement markings, signs, and lighting to improve navigation and nighttime safety.

  • Relocating utility poles to accommodate the new roadway configuration.

  • Upgrading and replacing portions of the existing box culvert to support the new road design.

These improvements are designed to make the intersection safer, more efficient, and accessible for all users, including cars, trucks, and emergency vehicles. 

Map of the Project Area:

 

SR 44/Silver Bridge Road Intersection Safety Project Map

Funding:

This project is funded from the State Highways Operation and Protection Program (SHOPP) Reactive Safety Program.  

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complete

Site History

  • Caltrans was notified of two collisions that occurred at this intersection in July of 2024

  • Caltrans began field investigations of the site with local residents, Shasta County staff and CT Maintenance between July and November of 2024

  • Initial determination found that corner site distance for WB traffic was obscured by adjacent embankments to the East.

  • Additionally high speeds and conflicting turning movements were noted

  • Interim improvements have included:

  • Site grading and tree removal for increased corner site distance to the east occurred in early 2025

  • Implementation of a 55-mph absolute speed limit per CVC 22349(b)

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live

Project Initiation

  • Traffic Safety gained approval from CT D2 Executive Staff to explore project alternatives and submit conceptual approval funds request on 8/19/25

  • Intersection Safety and Operational Assessment Process (ISOAP) began August ‘25

  • Conceptual Approval for a Safety (201.010) Roundabout Project was provided by Caltrans Traffic Safety Division on 9/17/25

  • District Executive Staff review of project took place 1/6/26 with approval of Scope of Work (SOW)

  • Internal Project team concurred with SOW on 1/28/26

  • ISOAP was completed in late August 2025

  • PID is currently in progress; anticipated completion May 2026

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planned

Project Approval and Environmental Document

Summer 2026

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planned

Final Project Design

Summer 2028

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planned

Construction

Summer 2030