State Route 70

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Routing

1. Route 99 near Catlett Road to Route 20 in Marysville.

   Post 1964 Signage History

   In 1963, Route 70 was defined to run from Route 99 near Catlett Road to Route 395 near Hallelujah Junction via Quincy and Beckwourth Pass.

   In 1986, Chapter 928 split the route into the current two segments: (a) Route 99 near Catlett Road to Route 20 in Marysville. (b) Route 20 in Marysville to Route 395 near Hallelujah Junction via Quincy and Beckwourth Pass. The portion in Marysville became part of Route 20.

   The segment from Route 99 in Sacramento to the Route 70/Route 99 split is cosigned as Route 70/Route 99, although it is legislatively Route 99.

   Some chronological notes:

   • 1967. Route 70 began (cosigned with Route 99) either at Route 16 or at Route 275 (Capitol Avenue, former US 40/US 99W and Route 16).
   • 1970. I-5 completed through Natomas between Elkhorn and downtown Sacramento, bypassing the old El Centro Road (LRN 232/Route 24) routing of Route 70/Route 99. According to Joel Windmiller, Route 70 may have continued down I-5 into downtown Sacramento for a very short period of time.
   • Early 1970s. Route 70 is truncated to begin at the Elkhorn Y, co-signed with Route 99.
   • Late 1990s Route 70 signage pushed back further, this time to the legislative western terminus (in Catlett). Note that through all these years, the legislative definition never changed; none of the Route 70 extension south to downtown Sacramento (co-signed with Route 99) was ever covered by it but was probably a direct replacement of former Route 24.

   Note that the original plans were for there to be an "East Valley" corridor, consisting of Route 99 from I-5 north to Route 70, Route 70 north to Route 149, all of Route 149, and Route 99 north through Chico probably reconnecting to I-5 (although plans north of Chico were shelved in the 1990s). This was for a Midwest-style expressway with freeway segments through the significant towns and interchanges at major intersecting highways. This would have included a freeway bypass of Marysville, the site of the last in-town surface street routing. Unfortunately only the segments at the ends of the corridor -- I-5 to Olivehurst and Oroville to just north of Chico -- were completed as planned; everything else was cut back to conventional 4-lane commercial standards (although a largely at-grade bypass of Marysville via the Feather River berm and making use of the present Yuba River Route 70 bridge is under study as of 2018) due to lack of the funding needed to acquire significant property between Marysville and Oroville for even an expressway upgrade.
   (Source: Scott Parker (SParker) on AAroads, 3/28/2018)

   Pre 1964 Signage History

   Before 1964, this was Sign Route 24. In 1934, Route 24 was signed along the route from Woodland at Jct. US 99 to Jct. Route 7 (now US 395) near Reno Junction, via Oroville and Quincy (Reno Junction was likely the former name of what is now Hallelujah Junction, Reno Junction having replaced Chats). It appears it was extended, perhaps in 1936, to eventually have the route from US 40 in Oakland to US 395 near Reno Junction. See the page on Route 24 for the portion SW of Woodland. In Woodland, Route 24 diverged from Route 16 and continued N to Yuba City/Marysville along LRN 87. It was cosigned with US 40A, and this segment is now part of Route 113.

   The pre-1951 routing of Route 24 between Sacramento and the current Route 70/Route 99 split was cosigned with US 99E, and likely ran along LRN 50. A 1969 map shows a different routing (cosigned with Route 99), along Jibboom Street, Garden Highway and El Centro Road. Note that the segment from Route 99 to Route 65 was not signed state highway until the move of Route 24 from the westerly (Woodland) route to the El Centro Avenue route in the 1950s. The portion of El Centro Road S of I-80 was still in existence as of 1995, but has since been replaced by residential streets.

   Around 1960 the routing for signed Route 24 changed to a new routing along LRN 232, which used Jiboom Street and El Centro Street. This routing used the original Jiboom Street bridge over the American River and Main Drainage Canal. The Gribblenation Blog, "Highways in and around Old Sacramento; US 40, US 99W, CA 16, CA 24, CA 70, CA 99, CA 275, and more" provides a detailed history of the various highways (US 40, US 99, Route 16, Route 24, Route 70, Route 99, Route 275, Route 51, I-5, and I-80 in the Old Sac area. The portion of this route between Route 99 and Route 65 was LRN 232, defined in 1949.

   In 1959, the CHC adopted a routing for a connection between the "future Route 232 (LRN 232) freeway" (today's Route 70 freeway routing) and the existing Route 232 highways (Feather River Blvd) near Rio Oso. This connector swings W from the adopted freeway route to join Feather River Blvd about a mile to the west. It is hard to see today, because although Feather River Blvd was "new" Route 24 (and later Route 70) at the time, it has since been relinquished by the state and downgraded to a county road. The plans called for the building of a two-lane bridge over the Bear River, upstream from the existing bridge. This is part of the first stage of construction of the new Route 70 freeway. The article indicated that when the LRN 232 freeway (today's Route 70) was extended to US 99E (Route 99) in Marysville, this connection would be incorporated into the Bear River interchange, and used as a county road connection (as LRN 232 would move off Feather River Blvd). However, in 1959, Feather River Blvd was new Route 24 headed north on El Centro Road from the Sacramento River. Old Route 24 resigned the Alt US 40 1955-64 alignment (current 113) from Woodland, which headed north at Tudor at the current junction of Route 99 and Route 113 then headed north into Yuba City. In this area for a small period of time (i.e., from 1964 until I-5 was completed and US 99 signs came down), California had both US 99 and California Route 99, but not on the same stretch of highway.
   (Source: 1959 news clipping via Joel Windmiller, 1/27/2023)

   From Route 65 near Marysville to Marysville, the current routing was part of LRN 3 (1910).

   Tom Fearer, in a discussion on AARoads in June-July 2017, provides more history of Route 70: Route 70 from Oroville along the Feather River Highway to Quincy has some interesting history in terms of route numbering and alignments. Originally the Feather River Highway was part of Route 24, as seen on the 1938 State Highway Map. Prior to the construction of Oroville Dam the Feather River Highway was substantially different. East out of Oroville, Route 24 took what is now Oroville Dam Blvd/County Route B2 to the approximate location of Oroville Dam where it would have crossed the Feather River. Route 24 followed the west bank of the North Fork Feather River where it would have joined the modern alignment of Route 70 via Dark Canyon Road. The 1935 County Road Map shows the older alignment. In 1955, the Feather River Highway was renumbered as US 40A and really honestly it is kind of the perfect alternate to even Donner Summit, much less Donner Pass. By 1958 the newly adopted planned alignment of US 40A out of Oroville appears to the west of the highway to make way for the Oroville Dam project. By 1963, US 40A is shifted onto the new aligment modern of the Feather River Highway. By 1965, State Highway Maps show the Feather River Highway renumbered to Route 70.

   In the 1934 definition of state highways, no routing was allocated to Route 70. By 1936, US 70 was defined.

   Status

   Marysville Expressway (SUT 0.0 to BUT R20.641)

   In his 2006 Strategic Growth Plan, Governor Schwartzenegger proposed a comprehensive Route 70/Route 99 project. The project (stretching from the I-5/Route 99 junction (~SUT 0.0) to Route 149 in Butte County (~ BUT R20.641L)) converts two-lane conventional corridors to four-and-five-lane expressways, completes key segments to freeway by constructing interchanges, and provides additional capacity and throughput for current and projected future populations. It connects the Sacramento, Yuba-City and Chico urbanized area with an improved facility, saves lives by removing two lane segments, and supports improved freight movement.

   The following project is planned this route: Upgrading Route 70 to 4-lane expressway from Route 99 (070 SUT 0.0) to the existing freeway S of Marysville. This will eventually be upgraded to full freeway. This was on the April 2002 CTC agenda for approval for future consideration of funding [2.2c.(4), 2.5b(5), north of Bear River (apx 070 YUB 0.093) to S of McGowan Parkway (070 YUB R7.351)]

   In 2007, it was noted that the California Transportation Commission allocated $126 million for a project in Yuba and Sutter counties to widen Route 70 to four lanes from south of East Nicolaus (apx 070 SUT R4.102) to the Bear River (apx 070 YUB 0.127). The East Nicolaus bypass would relieve traffic congestion and improve highway safety, and is scheduled to last from spring 2008 to fall 2011. The bypass will be to the west of East Nicolaus. This southern section of Route 70 closely follows the route of the old Sacramento Northern Railroad. South of East Nicolaus, the old rail grade is visible on the west side of the highway. North of East Nicolaus, the grade is visible as Route 70 zags at the intersection of El Centro Blvd - the grade runs between Route 70 and El Centro Blvd north to Kempton Road. This widening will make Route 70 a 4-lane facility from the the southern end of the route all the way to Marysville. In October 2009, a local newspaper reported on the effects of the rerouting on East Nicolaus, for Caltrans rerouted Route 70 around East Nicolaus partly to eliminate traffic backups at a stop sign where the highway and Nicolaus Avenue met. The switch was part of an $82 million project to expand Route 70 to four lanes between Route 99 and Marysville, a project set for completion in 2011. Most residents are happy. Marcum-Ilinois School officials said their traffic situation has improved immeasurably, with far fewer cars and trucks zooming past the school, which fronts what was Route 70 until June 2009. The highway now runs about a half-mile to the west, with an full interchange to Nicolaus Avenue. Some businesses adapted to the rerouting with signs, such as the Country Store, a stone's throw from the former intersection but far from eyesight of drivers now. Other businesses failed, such as The Hub, a burger joint near the intersection whose menu board still boasts of a Dragon Burger with 2⅓ pounds of beef, closed its doors; the restaurant occupies what was once Perozzi's, a popular eatery for locals and commuters for more than 36 years. The old road is now known as El Centro Boulevard, the name used before Route 70 was established. Yet modern mechanisms haven't caught up--Google Maps still lists the road by the Route 70 designation.

   In articles noting the completion of the Route 149 widening, it was noted that there are also plans to widen Route 70 to 4 lanes from the junction of Route 99 in Sutter County (~ SUT 0.0) to Marysville (~ YUB 14.59). It will also be 4 lanes in the Oroville area and north to the junction of Route 191. About 2 more miles will be widened to 4 lanes immediately south of Oroville.

   In May 2019, the CTC authorized relinquishment of right of way in the county of Sutter (County) on Route 70 from Route 99 to Rio Oso Road (03-Sut-70-PM 0.0/7.6, 5 segments), consisting of superseded highway and collateral facilities. The County, by cooperative agreement dated June 11, 2003, and by amendment to agreement dated April 21, 2011, agreed to accept the relinquishment. The County, by letter dated March 6, 2019, agreed to waive the 90-day notice requirement and accept title upon relinquishment by the State.
   (Source: May 2019 CTC Minutes, Agenda Item 2.3c)

   In January 2019, the CTC authorized vacation of right of way in the county of Sutter along Route 70 from 0.15 mile south of to 0.30 mile north of Marcum Road (2 segments, 03-Sut-70-PM R2.8/R3.3), consisting of superseded highway right of way no longer needed for State highway purposes. It has been determined that the facilities in the vacation resolution summarized below are not essential to the proper functioning of the State Highway System and may be disposed of by vacation. Upon the recording of the approved vacation resolution in the county where the facilities are located, the public’s right to use the facilities will be abandoned. The vacation complies with Sections 892, 8313 and 8330.5 of the Streets and Highways Code.
   (Source: January 2019 CTC Minutes, Agenda Item 2.3d)

   In October 2013, the CTC received a MND for future consideration of funding regarding a project located on Route 70 east of the Feather River, approximately 13 miles south of the City of Marysville in Yuba County. The proposed project will replace the existing at-grade intersection of Feather River Boulevard at Route 70 (apx 070 YUB R0.353) with a modified L-1/L-9 configuration interchange. The interchange will include a five-lane overcrossing of Route 70, five interchange ramps, removal of the existing at-grade intersection and traffic signal, and utility relocation.

   In December 2013, the CTC approved funding $4.361M for the Feather River Boulevard/Route 70 Interchange in Yuba County near Plumas Lake and north of Bear River at the southern intersection of Feather River Boulevard and Route 70 (apx 070 YUB R0.353) . The project will remove the traffic signal and construct interchange.

   As of November 2007, construction had begun on an interchange with Plumas Lakes Blvd (070 YUB R3.472). It is just to the south of the Union Pacific RR/Arobga Rd twin bridges.

   The following project is planned this route: Marysville Bypass. Starting at Route 70/Route 65 junction (070 YUB R8.414), running E of Marysville and linking with the existing Route 70 freeway south of Oroville (apx 070 BUT 11.532). Note that this bypass was later deprecated for the widening discussed below.

   Business Routes

   Oroville. Home to the famous "Business I-70" shield.

   Blue Star Memorial Highway

   The portion of this route that is former US 99 was designated as a "Blue Star Memorial Highway" by Senate Concurrent Resolution 33, Ch. 82 in 1947.

   ---

2. Route 20 in Marysville to Route 395 near Hallelujah Junction via Quincy and Beckwourth Pass.

   Post 1964 Signage History

   In 1963, Route 70 was defined to run from Route 99 near Catlett Road to Route 395 near Hallelujah Junction via Quincy and Beckwourth Pass. Note that Hallelujah Junction was formerly called Chats, CA.

   In 1986, Chapter 928 split the route into the current two segments: (a) Route 99 near Catlett Road to Route 20 in Marysville. (b) Route 20 in Marysville to Route 395 near Hallelujah Junction via Quincy and Beckwourth Pass. The portion in Marysville became part of Route 20.

   The route between Blairsden and Indian Falls is cosigned as Route 70/Route 89, although it is legislatively Route 70.

   Pre 1964 Signage History

   This portion of the Route 70 routing started life in 1919, when the LRN 21 routing replaced former LRN 30, the Oroville-Quincy Highway, between a point NW of Oroville and Quincy. In 1931 the routing was extended from Quincy to Chats, CA (Hallelujah Junction) near (signed) US 395 [LRN 29]. The rationale for the extension was that the extension would extend the Feather River road, [LRN 21], joining' it to [LRN 29] (now US 395) near the latter 's interstate connection with State of Nevada highways. The inclusion in the State system extended State jurisdiction over a section that was projected to eventually be considered state and interstate. It was anticipated that LRN 21 would provide the advertised water grade arterial through the scenic Feather River to the county seat, Quincy. National forest highway in cooperation with Plumas County aid were completing on good standards a surfaced road E of Quincy as funds permitted; but they were unable to complete the connection through Plumas and Lassen counties. State aid permitted that connection.

   In 1933, LRN 87 was added to the mix. LRN 87 ran between Marysville and Oroville. In 1934, the routing was signed as Route 24. In the late 1930s, it was resigned as Alternate US 40 (and was likely still Route 24). In 1963, it was renumbered as Route 70 when that route number was freed by the decomissioning of US 70.

   In the late 1930s, there was a temporary routing of Alternate US 40 that took a more southern alignment than the current Route 70 routing, running through Berry Creek and Bucks Lake to Quincy along Orville-Quincy Highway, Spanish Ranch, and Bucks Lake Road. This appears to be the former LRN 30. Much of that route is no longer part of the state highway system, although the portion from Oroville to Brush Creek is part of Route 162.

   Freeway

   In May 1956, the Feather River Bulletin published an article, together with a proposed route map, for the rerouting of Alt US 40 (Route 70) E of Oroville between Oroville and Jarbo Gap. This was called the Lake Oroville Bypass Alignment. The article noted:
   (Source: Feather River Bulletin, 5/3/1956, via Joel Windmiller, 2/23/2023)

   J. W. Trask, District engineer of the Division of Highways, announced today that preliminary studies for a future relocation on a freeway basis of 19.3 miles of  US 40 Alternate (Feather River Highway [Route 70]) in Butte County between Montgomery Street in Oroville and Jarbo Gap have now reached a stage to permit a tentative conclusion as to basic plan. Relocation of the Feather River Highway is one of the first steps in the proposed construction of the Oroville Dam, a portion of the Feather River Project. Before the dam can be built, this important state highway will have to be relocated. G. T. McCoy, state highway engineer has instructed Trask to hold a public meeting to explain the various studies and the tentative conclusions reached by the highway engineers. The meeting will be held in Oroville on May 9, at 10 AM in the supervisor's room in the county courthouse. Trask urged all interested individuals and civic groups to attend the meeting and to present any information which may be pertinent to a freeway routing for the portion of US 40 Alt concerned. This information may be delivered orally or a written statement may be filed with the division of highways. Studies, by the division of the proposed route from Montgomery Street to Jarbo Gap, include all of the numerous factors influencing the location of a highway through developed and semi-developed areas. The factors involved include consideration of the proposed Feather River dam reservoir, traffic service, cost of construction and right-of-way, future developments, and overall effect on the area, including the city of Oroville. Trask also stated that in addition to local conditions all route studies on 40A have to consider the importance of the road as a primary state highway and a part of the network of strategic highways. The tentative' routing departs from the existing road just west of Oroville, crosses the Feather River on a new bridge, and lies south of the existing Oroville-Chico highway through Thermalito. It swings east again at Wicks Corners. It lies north of Table Mountain between Pentz and Cherokee. It crosses the West Branch of the Feather River at Vinton Gulch and runs north of Yankee Hill, joining the existing highway just west of Jarbo Gap. The tentative routing eliminates many of the sharp curves in the Feather River Canyon. After a public explanation of the route studies between Montgomery Street and Jarbo Gap has been given, a complete report of the data and conclusions, including information provided by interested persons attending the meeting, will be forwarded by Trask to State Highway Engineer McCoy. McCoy will furnish the information and his recommendation for routing to the California highway commission. Route adoption's responsibility for the commission.

   Status

   Route 70 Passing Lane Project Yuba/Butte County - 03-Yub-70 PM 14.70/25.82, 03-But-70 PM 0.0/11.8

   In December 2013, the Project Study Report proposed what became PPNO 9801 (9801A, 9801B), on Route 70 between 14th St. in Marysville to Ophir Road in Oroville, a project to widen the existing 2-lane conventional highway into a 5-lane facility, 2 lanes per direction with a continuous two-way left turn lane. The existing freeway north of Ophir Road will be extended S to Palermo Road. The current facility included several driveways along the corridor serving residential, agriculatural, and industrial properties; no new connections were proposed. The report noted that there have been several proposed improvements along this corridor including the proposed "Marysville Bypass to Oroville Freeway", which would have used a new alignment. This project does not use that alignment. The 2009 Transportation Concept Report proposed multiple "passing lane" projects, but has been revised for a continuous five-lane facility. The corridor has been divided into six segments:
   (Source: January 2014 Project Study Report)

   • Segment 1: S of Palermo Road to Ophir Road (BUT 8.8 to 11.8)
   • Segment 2: N conform of the East Gridley Road Passing Lane Project to S of Palermo Road (BUT 5.7 to 8.8)
   • Segment 3: N of the Yuba/Butte County Line to the S conform of the East Gridley Road Passing Lane Project (BUT 0.3 to 3.8)
   • Segment 4: N of Woodruff Lane to N of the Yuba/Butte County Line (YUB 20.2 to 25.8, BUT 0.0 to 0.3)
   • Segment 5: N of Laurellen Road to N of Woodruff Lane (YUB 16.4 to 20.2)
   • Segment 6: 14th St in Marysville to N of Laurellen Road (YUB 14.7 to 16.4)

   In October 2017, the CTC added the following project into the SHOPP: 03-But-70 5.6/8.8: On Route 70 in Butte County: Near Oroville, from 0.3 mile north of Cox Lane to south of Palermo Road. Widen for two-way left-turn lane and standard shoulders, and provide a roadside clear recovery zone. This is Segment 2.

   In October 2017, the CTC added the following project into the SHOPP: 03-But-70 8.8/11.8: On Route 70 in Butte County: Near Oroville, from south of Palermo Road to north of Ophir Road. Widen for two-way left-turn lane and standard shoulders, and provide a roadside clear recovery zone. This is Segment 1.

   In December 2017, the CTC amended the SHOPP to add the following project, for planning only: 03-But-70 0.0/3.8: On Route 70, in Butte County: Near Oroville, from Yuba County Line to south of East Gridley Road/Stimpson Road; also, in Yuba County on Route 70 from PM 25.7 to PM 25.8. Widen for two-way left-turn lane and standard shoulders. This is part of Segment 4.

   In March 2018, it was reported that the California Transportation Committee approved $400 million in funding to widen the highway to five lanes between the Yuba County line (~ BUT 0.0) and Oroville (~BUT 14.708). Construction on the first project, the stretch of road between Ophir and Palermo roads, south of Oroville, won’t happen before 2020. The article included a very touching story about Caltrans engineer Paul Inman, who was killed on that dangerous stretch of road. This appears to be segments 1, 2, 3, and part of 4.
   (Source: Chico ER News, 3/23/2018)

   The 2018 STIP, approved at the CTC March 2018 meeting, appears to adjust the funding for these segments, seemingly delaying two of the segments for a year. The PPNOs involved are PPNO 9801 (Segment 1), PPNO 9801A (Segment 2), PPNO 9801B (Segment 3), PPNO 9824 (Segments 4 and 5).

   In January 2019, the CTC amended the SHOPP regarding this project: 03-But-70 8.8/11.8 8.8/12.1 PPNO 2294. Proj ID 0318000053. Route 70 Near Oroville, from 0.2 mile south of Palermo Road to 0.2 mile north of Ophir Road. Widen for two-way left-turn lane and standard shoulders, and provide a roadside clear recovery zone. Update the project limits to extend the construction zone. The extended project limits facilitate staging and traffic handling will allow the project to finish construction in one season.
   (Source: January 2019 CTC Minutes, Agenda Item 2.1a(1) Amendment Item 5)

   In March 2019, the CTC approved an allocation of $7,400,000 for the State-Administered STIP Route 70 Passing Lanes (Segment 1) project (PPNO 9801), on the State Highway System, in Butte County, programmed in 2019-20. Project details: 03-BUT-70 M8.8/R12.1. PPNO 03-9801. Proj ID 0312000155. On Route 70, from 0.1 mile south of Palermo Road, to 0.3 0.6 miles north of Ophir Road/Pacific Heights intersection. Construct passing lanes. (Future Consideration of Funding approved under Resolution E-18-155; December 2018. (EA 3F280, PPNO 9801 combined with EA 03-3H710, PPNO 2294 for construction under EA 3H71U, Project ID 0319000051)
   (Source: March 2019 CTC Minutes, Agenda Item 2.5c.(4))

   In November 2019, Caltrans District 3 tweeted: "Today we celebrated the completion of the SR-70 Segment 1 Safety and Passing Lanes!"
   (Source: Caltrans District 3 Tweet, 11/18/2019)

   In March 2020, the CTC approved for future consideration of funding another segment of this project: Route 70 (03-Yub-70, PM 25.5/25.8, 03-But-70, PM 0.0/3.80) in Butte and Yuba Counties. Widen highway, construct a bridge, and build other safety improvements in Butte and Yuba Counties. (PPNO 9801B and 2296) This project is located within Butte and Yuba Counties on Route 70 and proposes to widen Route 70 from a two-lane highway to five-lane facility with a paved center two-way-turn lane median for approximately 4.0 miles north of the existing Honcut Creek bridges. At Honcut Creek, a new
   two-lane bridge structure will be constructed parallel to the existing structures to span the levee prism and provide additional lanes of southbound traffic. The project is fully funded and currently programmed in the 2018 SHOPP and 2018 State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) for a total of $65,868,000 which includes Construction (capital and support) and Right of Way (capital and support). Construction is estimated to begin in 2021-2022. Additionally, in March 2020, the CTC approved the following financial allocation: 03-But-70 PM 0.0/3.8, 03-Yub-70 PM 25.7/25.8. PPNO 2296. ProjID 0318000102. EA 3H930. Near Oroville, from Yuba County Line to south of East Gridley Road/Stimpson Road; also, in Yuba County on Route 70 from PM 25.7 to PM 25.8. Widen for two-way left-turn lane and standard shoulders. (Concurrent consideration of funding under Resolution E-20-14; March 2020.) Financial allocation: PS&E $3,000,000 R/W Sup $2,500,000.
   (Source: March 2020 CTC Agenda, Agenda Item 2.2c.(1), 2.5b.(2a) #4)

   Additionally, in March 2020, the CTC approved the following financial allocation: $9,240,000 for CONST and CON ENG on 03-But-70 PM 5.6/9.1 PPNO 9801A. ProjID 0314000057. EA 3F281.  SR70 Passing Lanes (Segment 2). On Route 70, from 0.1 mile north of Cox Lane to 0.2 mile south of Palermo Road. Construct Passing Lane. (CONST savings of $180,000 to be returned to Butte County
   regional shares.) (CONST savings of $180,000 to be returned to interregional share balance.) (Future consideration of funding approved under Resolution E-18-155; December 2018.) (Concurrent allocation for SHOPP Project EA 03-3H720/PPNO 2295 under Resolution FP-19-61) (EA 03-3F281/PPNO 9801A combined with SHOPP EA 03-3H720/PPNO 2295 under EA 03-3H72U, Project ID 0320000087)
   (Source: March 2020 CTC Agenda, Agenda Item 2.5c.(5))

   Lastly, in March 2020, the CTC approved the 2020 STIP, which made no changes to the funding programmed for PPNO 9801, 9801A, 9802B or PPNO 9824. Note that the STIP program stated that the interregional program "Does Not Include County Shares"; however, the Interregional numbers seemed to just be duplicates of the county numbers:
   (Source: March 2020 CTC Agenda, Item 4.7, 2020 STIP Adopted 3/25/2020)

   PPNO	Project	Prior	20-21	21-22	22-23	23-24	24-25
   9801	Psng Lns, Palermo-Ophir, Seg 1 (RIP)(SHOPP)(decr at vote)	4,070K	0	0	0	0	0
   9801 Interregional	Passing Lanes, Palermo-Ophir, Seg 1 (IIP)(SHOPP)	4,070K	0	0	0	0	0
   9801A	Passing Lanes, Cox-Palermo, Seg 2 (RIP)(SHOPP)	1,800K	4,800K	0	0	0	0
   9801A Interregional	Passing Lanes, Cox-Palermo, Seg 2 (IIP)(SHOPP)	1,800K	4,800K	0	0	0	0
   9801B	Passing Lanes, East Gridley-Co Line, Seg 3 (RIP) (SHOPP)	2,300K	0	8,600K	0	0	0
   9801B Interregional	Passing Lanes, East Gridley-Co Line, Seg 3 (IIP)(SHOPP)	2,300K	0	8,600K	0	0	0
   9824	Passing Lanes, Segments 4&5 (APDE)	4,000K	4,000K	0	0	0	0
   9824A	Passing Lanes, Segments 4&5, Phase 1 (NEW)	0	32,000K	0	0	0	0

   In June 2021, the CTC approved the following advance construction phase allocation: $33,310,000. 03-But-70 0.0/3.8. PPNO 03-2296; ProjID 0318000102; EA 3H930. Route 70 Near Oroville, from Yuba County line to 0.3 mile south of East Gridley Road/Stimpson Road; also in Yuba County, on Route 70 from PM 25.7 to PM 25.822. Outcome/Output: Improve safety by widening for two-way left-turn lane and shoulders, establish 20 feet of clear recovery zone, overlay pavement with rubberized asphalt, and upgrade drainage.  This project will reduce the number and severity of collisions. Allocation: CON ENG $3,200,000 CONST $28,750,000. (Future consideration of funding approved under Resolution E-20-14; March 2020.) (SB 1 Baseline Agreement approval under Resolution SHOPP-P-1920-07B; May 2020.) (EA 3H930/PPNO 03-2296 combined with STIP funded project EA 3F282/PPNO 03-9801B for construction under EA 3H93U/Project ID 0321000091.) (Related STIP allocation for EA 3F282/PPNO 03-9801B under Resolution FP-20-92.)
   (Source: June 2021 CTC Agenda, Agenda Item 2.5b.(3) #1)

   Also in June 2021, the CTC approved an allocation of $17,200,000 for the State-Administered STIP Route 70 Passing Lanes (Segment 3) project (PPNO 9801B; ProjID 0318000039; EA 3F282; 03-But-70 0.0/3.6), on the State Highway System, in Butte County, programmed in 2021-22. Allocation time extensions for other projects programmed within the current Fiscal Year have allowed for sufficient capacity to become available to fund this advanced project allocation. The project is on Route 70 from 0.4 mile South or East of Gridley Road to 0.3 mile South of Butte/Yuba County line. Widen roadway. (Future consideration of funding approved under Resolution E-20-14; March 2020.) (Contribution from other sources: $3,200,000 (CON ENG) and $28,750,000 (CONST) in SHOPP funds.) The allocation is divided as follows: $15,000,000 for construction and $2,200,000 for construction engineering.
   (Source: June 2021 CTC Agenda, Agenda Item 2.5c.(4))

   Additionally, in June 2021, the CTC approved an allocation of $24,500,000 for the State-Administered STIP Passing Lanes Segment 4 & 5 Project (PPNO 9824; ProjID 0318000186; EA 3F283), on the State Highway System, in Yuba County. This project is on Route 70 (03-Yub-70 16.2/25.8), from Laurellen Road to Yuba/Butte County Line.  Widen roadway. Allocation: CON ENG $3,200,000 CONST $21,300,000. (Future consideration of funding approved under Resolution E-20-127; December 2020.) (Contribution from other sources: $9,030,000 (CON ENG) and $75,800,000 (CONST) in SHOPP funds.) (Concurrent SHOPP allocation for EA 03-4F380 under Resolution FP-20-85. To be combined under a new  EA 03-4F38U)
   (Source: June 2021 CTC Agenda, Agenda Item 2.5c.(8))

   In November 2021, Caltrans District 3 celebrated the completion of Phase 2 of the Route 70 Safety and Passing Lanes Project in Butte County this morning. The new roadway improves safety along Route 70 corridor by providing continuous passing opportunities for vehicles from East Gridley Road to the Butte-Yuba county line. The project is the third of six major roadway improvement projects completed on Route 70 between Oroville and Marysville.
   (Source: District 3 on FB, 11/2/2021)

   In November 2022, it was reported that teams working on the $63.9 million Route 70 Corridor Improvement Project, which covers the 4-mi. stretch between East Gridley Road to the Butte-Yuba County Line, are constructing a new 1,400-ft. bridge with standard lanes and shoulders over Honcut Creek, the longest Caltrans has ever designed. They are also widening the existing two-lane highway to five lanes (two lanes in each direction, with a turning lane in the center); creating a continuous two-way left turn; widening the shoulders to 8 ft.; upgrading the existing drainage systems; and establishing an area for vehicles veering off the roadway to return to the main highway. The passing lane segment, between East Gridley Road and Lower Honcut Road, opened to traffic on Nov. 23, 2022. The new 1,400-ft. long bridge over Honcut Creek will have two westbound lanes with 8-ft. wide shoulders. The existing bridges cover eastbound traffic. This is the longest single-span structure that Caltrans has designed and built. Construction started with the foundation work in the middle and then worked towards one side and then the other based on the dimensions of the piles and the equipment needed to construct them and the foundations. Once the foundation work was complete, a similar process was used for the deck pours. A fair number of piles were drilled. Not counting the abutments for the pier, there were 14 foundation CIHD piles ranging from 100 to 150 feet deep, and some of them were eight and 10 feet in diameter. There were two abutments and each one had 12 24-inch piles. As of November 2022, the bridge deck was all poured out and working was in process to stress the deck. This is followed by work on wrapping up the abutment deck wall and barrier walls on the bridge. The drainage systems are completed just under three miles north of the roadway. Once that is complete, traffic can be moved across the new bridge, permitting completion of the last bit of the roadway surrounding the existing bridges for the current traffic pattern. The new bridge has been built through a flood plain and there were some environmental timing restrictions that the contractor had to work around. Once the bridge is stressed, the contractors can release the falsework and get out of the floodplain.
   (Source: Construction Equipment Guide, 11/30/2022)

   In May 2023, it was reported that traffic has shifted onto the newly constructed Honcut Creek Bridge on Route 70 at Laurellen Road and the Yuba County and Butte County line. Caltrans said the roadway is the final construction phase of a $63.3-million Butte County project to construct the new bridge and passing lanes between East Gridley Road and the Yuba County and Butte County line. Officials expect it to be completed sometime in Summer 2023.
   (Source: $ Appeal-Democrat, 5/18/2023)

   In August 2011, the CTC approved for future consideration of funding a project that will rehabilitate the route in the city of Marysville, including new pavement, curb ramps, and sidewalks. The CTC also approved $41,500,000 in SHOPP funding for repairs in Marysville, from First Street Undercrossing to east of Binney Junction; also on Route 20 from Feather River Bridge to 0.1 mile east of Levee Road, that will rehabilitate 17.0 lane miles of roadway to improve the ride quality, prevent further deterioration of the road surface, minimize the costly roadway repairs and extend the pavement service life. (Vicinity of 070 YUB 14.734)

   SR 70 Binney Junction Roadway Rehabilitation and Complete Streets Project (03-Yub-70, PM 14.8/15.7)

   In March 2021, the CTC approved an amendment to Resolution FP-20-44, originally approved in January 2021, to rescind an allocation of  $6,715,000 for the Plans, Specifications & Estimates (PS&E) and Right of Way (RW) support phases for 03-Yub-70, PM 14.8/15.7.  SR 70 Binney Junction Roadway Rehabilitation and Complete Streets Project  (EA 0H160/PPNO 03-9820). What happened was this: At the January 2021 Commission meeting, the Department presented a concurrent environmental document, related to this allocation, for approval (I didn't capture it for these pages because the summary didn't make clear the full extend of the project). However, at the meeting, the related environmental document was not approved, and the related SHOPP allocation was inadvertently approved. In accordance with SHOPP Guidelines, environmental clearance is required for all projects before allocations for PS&E, RW and Construction can be approved. Therefore, the Commission needed to rescind the allocation of $6,715,000 for the PS&E and RW support phases.
   (Source: March 2021 CTC Agenda, Agenda Item 2.5b.(2c))

   Then, at the same meeting in March 2021, the CTC accepted the FEIR and approved for future consideration of funding the following project: 03-Yub-70, PM 14.8/15.7.  SR 70 Binney Junction Roadway Rehabilitation and Complete Streets Project. Replace underpasses and add lanes on Route 70 in Yuba County. (FEIR) (PPNO 9820) (SHOPP). This project is located on Route 70 in the City of Marysville, from 0.1 mile south of 14th Street to just north of Cemetery Road in Yuba County. The purpose of this project is to rehabilitate the existing roadway to reduce maintenance expenditures; improve safety, traffic operations, inadequate shoulders and vertical clearances to facilitate goods movement, sight distance, bicycle/pedestrian facilities, comply with Americans with Disabilities Act; increase multimodal mobility and operations to meet complete streets and safe routes to school policies. This project is not fully funded and is currently programmed in the 2020 State Highway Operation and Protection Program (SHOPP) for a total of $111,000,000 and $97,000,000 is currently through G-13 Contingency. Construction is estimated to begin Spring 2023. The scope, as described for the preferred alternative, is consistent with the project scope programmed by the Commission in the 2020 SHOPP. A Final Environmental Impact Report (FEIR) has been completed.  Potential impacts associated with the project can all be mitigated to below significance, but public interest necessitated preparation of an FEIR.
   (Source: March 2021 CTC Agenda, Agenda Item 2.2c.(5))

   Then, with all that cleared out and the FEIR approved, in March 2021 the CTC approved the following pre-construction SHOPP SB1 support phase allocation(s): $6,715,000 for the 2020 SHOPP preconstruction project phases for design and R/W support for the Route 70 Roadway Rehabilitation project in Yuba County: #1. $3,940,000 (PS&E, $3,500,000 programmed); $2,775,000 (R/W Sup, $2,500,000 programmed). 03-Yub-70 14.8/15.7. PPNO 03-9820; ProjID 0315000082; EA 0H160. Route 70 In and near Marysville, from south of 14th Street to north of Cemetery Road. Roadway rehabilitation and operational improvements including turn pockets and auxiliary lanes. (Concurrent consideration of funding under Resolution E-21-35; March 2021.)  (Concurrent Amendment under SHOPP Amendment 20H-006; March 2021.)  (As part of this allocation request, the Department is requesting to extend the completion of the PS&E phase an additional 7 months beyond the 36 month deadline.) (As part of this allocation request, the Department is requesting to extend the completion of the R/W Sup phase an additional 36 months beyond the 72 month deadline.)  (Nineteen month time extension for PS&E and R/W Sup approved under Waiver 19-29; June 2019.)  Prog year 23-24.
   (Source: March 2021 CTC Agenda, Agenda Item 2.5b.(2d) #1)

   In December 2021, the CTC approved an allocation of  $15,300,000 for the Right of Way (RW) capital phase for the Roadway Rehabilitation SHOPP project (PPNO 9820), on Route 70, in Yuba County, programmed through Fiscal Year 2023-24, of which $1,530,000 has been expended through the RW capital annual allocation. This project is located in the City of Marysville (City) in the County of Yuba (County). The Department in cooperation with the County, the City, and Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) proposes to rehabilitate Route 70, from 0.1 mile south of 14th Street to north of Cemetery Road. The project will provide complete streets aspect, rehabilitate existing pavement, reduce traffic congestion, improve operations and safety, and comply with Department, UPRR, and local agency standards. Partial and full acquisitions, as well as permanent and temporary construction easements, are required from approximately 23 private properties. The acquisitions and easements will provide the access needed to construct driveways and sidewalks, install traffic signals, intersection improvements,and Transportation Management System elements, complete utility relocation, and provide drainage improvements. The total RW permanent acquisition is estimated at approximately 8.75 acres with an additional 5.2 acres needed for temporary use. The proposed improvements will significantly impact the perpendicular parking stalls in front of commercial businesses. A relocation of utility facilities is also required for the project. The Department will be coordinating with multiple agencies to address more than 50 power and communication poles, and city water and services. A railroad agreement is also required with UPRR for review and approval of project features that impact the railroad. Although this allocation request is for the full $15,300,000, the funds will be committed over multiple fiscal years. The Department has committed $1,530,000 through the RW capital annual allocation to complete environmental clearance and project approval in 2017-18, 2018-19, 2019-20, and 2020-21. The Department anticipates committing an additional $6,280,000 in 2021-22 and $6,140,000 in 2022-23. The remaining $1,350,000 would be committed in 2023-24.
   (Source: December 2021 CTC Agenda, Agenda Item 2.5b.(5))

   In December 2022, the CTC amended this project in the SHOPP as follows: 03-Yub-70 14.8/15.7. PPNO 03-9820; ProjID 0315000082; EA 0H160. Route 70 In and near Marysville, from south of 14th Street to north of Cemetery Road. Roadway rehabilitation and operational improvements including turn pockets and auxiliary lanes.  This is a Construction Manager/General Contractor (CMGC) project. Note: Update description to include CMGC as the new recommended delivery method. The project has challenging construction staging and traffic control, levee relocation, railroad structures, and multiple utility relocations. The innovative CMGC delivery method will assist during design, manage risks during construction, and will save project time and mitigate risks.
   (Source: December 2022 CTC Agenda, Agenda Item 2.1a.(1d) #7)

   In March 2023, the CTC approved  an additional $6,250,000 in Capital Outlay Support (COS) for this project to complete the Plans, Specifications and Estimates (PS&E) phase. This project is located on Route 70, in Yuba County, in the City of Marysville (City), from south of Fourteenth Street to north of Cemetery Road.  The project will rehabilitate the roadway, make operational improvements which include turn pockets and auxiliary lanes, and replace three Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) structures (the southern structure known as the Marysville underpass and the northern two structures known as the Binney Junction underpass).  In addition, the project will incorporate complete streets, active transportation, and safe routes to school elements.  The cost increase in PS&E is due to the complexity of the project scope and largely stems from the change in scope for the replacement of the northerly UPRR structure known as the Binney Junction underpass.  The underpass is currently made up of two structures, each carrying a single set of railroad tracks.  During PA&ED, the planned scope was to replace the two existing structures with two new structures to the south.  This would meet the requirements of UPRR to have uninterrupted use of the tracks during construction and reduce right of way impacts on the Yuba Sutter Transit facility located to the south of the structures. During PS&E, after submittal of the preferred alternative for the new track alignment and both underpasses to UPRR for review and approval, UPRR strongly questioned the Department’s design for Binney Junction underpass and the ability to construct both new structures without disrupting the operation of their facilities.  To address their concerns, a new proposal was developed to construct one new bridge accommodating both sets of tracks.  This required re-aligning the structure further south and redesigning the track alignment.  Constructing one structure would greatly improve safety for workers, reduce the number of stages, be able to maintain UPRR operations, and reduce impacts to the travelling public.  The change in rail design also caused the Marysville underpass structure to be shifted, the roadway profile of Route 70 to be lowered to maintain the required vertical clearance, and additional redesign to accommodate the connections with several local roads to Route 70 between the two underpasses. UPRR also required the redesign of the retaining walls to improve long-term maintenance. The proposed modifications are well within the environmental study limits and do not require a re- evaluation or amendment to the environmental document.  The PS&E support cost increase associated with these changes is approximately $3,300,000. The change in the Binney Junction underpass structure location and the track realignment also impacted the work needed at one of the three floodgate structures located within the project limits.  The realignment impacted this floodgate, and the Department will have to design a replacement floodgate at a new location further northeast of the existing floodgate.  The PS&E support cost increase associated with the redesign to include this floodgate is approximately $200,000. In addition, as the Department was consulting with the Central Valley Flood Protection Board (CVFPB), United States Army Corp of Engineers (USACE), and the Marysville Levee District, it was evident that that the new alignment was impacting the levee and mitigation plan identified in PA&ED, the use of relief wells for seepage mitigation was not acceptable and the mitigation had to be changed to slurry cut-off walls instead.  CVFPB and USACE also required a change in the seepage mitigation plan to also include cut-off walls in the west levee.  Prior to PS&E, the Department only included the east levee as requiring seepage mitigation.  The PS&E support cost increase associated with the redesign of the levee and seepage mitigation strategy is approximately $500,000. The change to the replacement strategy of the UPRR structures and track alignment also impacted the existing high pressure gas line.  Originally, the Department was going to protect it in place.  However, it was determined that the protect-in-place method would not work, and the PS&E now had to accommodate the relocation of the gas line. The PS&E support cost increase associated with the relocation of the gas line is approximately $150,000.
   (Source: March 2023 CTC Agenda, Agenda Item 2.5e.(4))

   In May 2023, the CTC amended this project in the 2022 SHOPP as follows: 03-Yub-70 14.8/15.7. PPNO 03-9820; ProjID 0315000082; EA 0H160. Route 70 In and near Marysville, from south of 14th Street to north of Cemetery Road.  Roadway rehabilitation and operational improvements including turn pockets and auxiliary lanes. This is a Construction Manager/General Contractor (CMGC) project. Note: Split this Construction Manager/General Contractor (CMGC) parent project into EA 0H161/PPNO 03-9820A to be constructed as independent construction contract-Early Work Package No. 1. Allocation ($ × 1,000): PA&ED $3,000; PS&E $3,500; R/W Sup $2,500; ⊘Con Sup $12,000 $10,400; R/W Cap $15,300; ⊘Const Cap $100,650 $84,650; TOTAL $136,950 $119,350. FY23-24.
   (Source: May 2023 CTC Agenda, Agenda Item 2.1a.(1d) #17)

   Simmerly Slough Bridge (03-Yub-70, PM 15.4/16.5)

   In December 2017, the CTC approved for future consideration of funding a project, located near the city of Marysville, proposes to replace the Simmerly Slough Bridge on Route 70 (03-Yub-70, PM 15.4/16.5). The project also proposes to realign the approach roads at both ends of the new bridge, construct a new access road to Laurellen Road, and rehabilitate pavement leading to the new bridge. The project is fully funded and programmed in the 2016 SHOPP for an estimated total of $82.9 million, which includes Construction (capital and support) and Right-of-Way (capital and support). Construction is estimated to begin in December 2019. The scope, as described for the preferred alternative, is consistent with the project scope programmed by the Commission in the 2016 SHOPP. The project was also included in the final adopted 2018 SHOPP in March 2018.

   In May 2019, the CTC approved the following SHOPP allocation: $82,800,000 (Const, Const Engr). Yuba 03-Yub-70 15.5/16.5. Route 70 Near Marysville, from 0.1 mile north of Binney Junction Underpass to 0.3 mile north of Laurellen Road, at Simmerly Slough Bridge No. 16-0019. Outcome/Output: Replace existing bridge to address scour and seismic deficiencies. As part of this allocation request, the Department is requesting to extend the completion of CONST and CON ENG an additional 24 months beyond the 36 month deadline.
   (Source: May 2019 CTC Minutes, Agenda Item 2.5b.(1) Item 6)

   In April 2021, it was reported that Route 70 will be closed between Woodruff Lane and Laurellen Road over the weekend of April 12 as crews worked to tie in the newly constructed Simmerly Slough Bridge with the existing highway. The construction is part of a $60.4 million project to replace the 64-year-old Simmerly Bridge north of Marysville.
   (Source: Chico Enterprise-Record, 4/8/2021)

   Laurellen Road to Honcut Creek Bridge Improvements (03-Yub-70, PM 16.2/25.8)

   In June 2019, the CTC approved for future consideration of funding a project located on Route 70 from Laurellen Road to Honcut Creek Bridge, near Marysville in Yuba County (03-Yub-70, PM 16.2/25.8). The project proposes to modify the existing lanes, widen shoulders, and improve the clear recovery zone. The project also proposes to construct left turn lanes and bring Route 70 up to current design standards. This project proposes to address the operational and safety issues by reducing injury type collisions and traffic fatalities including crosscenterline collisions/fatalities. The project is fully funded and currently programmed in the 2018 State Highway Operation Protection Program (SHOPP) for an estimated total of $104.6 million which includes Construction (capital and support) and Right-of-Way (capital and support). Construction is estimated to begin in 2021. The scope, as described for the preferred alternative, is consistent with the project scope programmed by the Commission in the 2018 SHOPP.

   In June 2019, the CTC approved the following SHOPP support phase allocation: $11,111,000 03-YUB-70 16.2/25.8 PPNO 9058 ProjID 0314000153 Route 70 Near Marysville, from Laurellen Road to South Honcut Creek Bridge. Widen shoulders and improve clear recovery zone. PS&E $4,884,000 R/W Support $6,227,000 (Concurrent amendment under SHOPP Amendment 18H-010.)
   (Source June 2019 CTC Minutes, Agenda Item 2.5b.(2) Item 17)

   In June 2019, the CTC approved a Right of Way capital allocation of $15,200,000 for the SHOPP project (PPNO 9819, ProjID 0314000153, 03-Yub-70 16.2/25.8), in Yuba County programmed in fiscal year 2019-20, that will widen shoulders and improve the clear recovery zone. The project is located near the City of Marysville from Laurellen Road to South Honcut Creek Bridge on Route 70 in Yuba County. The project will widen and pave the shoulders, provide turn lanes and bus pull outs, straighten and flatten curves, install rumble strips, replace or extend culverts and establish a Clear Recovery Zone for errant vehicles. Wider shoulders will allow room for slow moving farm equipment as well as provide the Department’s Maintenance crews and California Highway Patrol a safe work zone. With numerous school bus stops within the project limits, designated locations will also provide students with safer access to buses. The project scope requires that the Department acquire 84 parcels, including fee acquisitions, permanent easements, and temporary construction easements. The project will also require coordinating utility relocations, providing relocation assistance, and securing demolition contracts. The Department’s Division of Right of Way is actively managing the delivery risks associated with working near gas lines and residential acquisitions impacting complex improvements. The original Right of Way capital programming was based on the right of way capital estimate developed in 2014. An updated estimate, based on improved mapping and positive location of utility facilities, was completed in 2018. However, the total acquisition area has increased and additional utility conflicts were identified and the current right of way capital estimate is $15,200,000.
   (Source: June 2019 CTC Minutes, Agenda Item 2.5b.(3))

   In December 2020, the CTC approved for future consideration of funding the following project for which a Final Environmental Impact Report (FEIR) has been completed: Route 70 in Yuba County (03-Yub-70, PM 16.2/25.8). Construct a 12-foot lane with an 8-foot shoulder in each direction on Route 70 in Yuba County. (PPNO 9824) This project is located on Route 70 in Yuba County, post miles 16.2-25.8. The project proposes to widen Route 70 between Laurellen Road and the Butte/Yuba County line. The purpose of the project is to achieve a significant reduction in traffic fatalities and serious injuries. This project is fully funded and is currently programmed in the 2020 State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) for a total of $145,982,000, which includes construction (capital and support) and Right of Way (capital and support). Construction is estimated to begin in 2021. The scope, as described for the preferred alternative, is consistent with the project scope programmed by the Commission in the 2020 STIP.
   (Source: December 2020 CTC Agenda, Agenda Item 2.2c.(5))

   In May 2021, the CTC approved Caltrans' request for an additional $4,900,000 for Right of Way (RW) capital for 03-Yub-70 16.2/25.8, PPNO 03-9819 ProjID 0314000153 EA4F380, Route 70 Near Marysville, from Laurellen Road to South Honcut Creek Bridge.  Widen shoulders and improve clear recovery zone. Outcome/Output: Widen shoulders and improve clear recovery zone. The RW for this project was allocated in June 2019 for $15,200,000.  A significant amount of the allocated RW funds have been expended on the acquisition of properties needed for the project. At present, the remaining RW capital is approximately $6,300,000, including the approved G-12 of $1,700,000.  However, this amount is insufficient for the cost to complete mitigation, settle the remaining acquisitions, pay relocation assistance, complete clearance and demolition work, and execute various utility agreements.  The capital estimate to complete these items is $11,200,000, representing a shortfall of $4,900,000; most of which is required to fund the State’s share of utility relocation costs.  These supplemental funds being requested are needed to execute utility agreements, which are required prior to achieving RW certification and moving this safety project to construction.  Caltrans will be requesting a construction capital allocation at the June 2021 Commission meeting with construction estimated to begin in Fall of 2021. The increase in RW capital is needed due to increased utility relocation costs.  The largest cost increase is to fund the work to replace a natural gas regulator and gas transmission valves.  For the purposes of programming and allocation, Caltrans estimated the relocation of these facilities is based on the experience working with Pacific Gas and Electric’s (PG&E) project liaisons.  However, during coordination with PG&E’s design team during the Plans, Specifications, and Estimates (PS&E) phase, it was discovered that the gas regulator and valves cost significantly more than the programmed and allocated amount. This added $6,500,000 to the utility relocation cost. As a “lessons learned”, Caltrans aims to have more detailed discussions early in the project programming process, with the design teams of the utility companies, regarding complex utility relocations on agriculture properties. There was also an increase in the number of utility poles that conflict with the project, when the roadway alignment was shifted slightly, to reduce impacts to a local business. This minor adjustment allowed a business to remain open and viable to the community. These minor  adjustments occurred after PA&ED and during the PS&E phase. Although these minor adjustments contributed to significant savings in acquisition costs, it also increased the number of poles in conflict with the project from 255 poles to 267 poles.  The additional poles increased the cost of the overhead electrical by approximately $400,000.
   (Source: May 2021 CTC Agenda, Agenda Item 2.5e.(4))

   In June 2021, the CTC approved the following construction phase allocation: $84,830,000. 03-Yub-70 16.2/25.8. PPNO 03-9819; ProjID 0314000153; EA 4F380. Route 70 Near Marysville, from Laurellen Road to South Honcut Creek Bridge.   Outcome/Output: Improve safety by constructing two-way left-turn lane and left turn pockets, widen shoulders, improve clear recovery zone, upgrade drainage, and overlay pavement.  This project will reduce the number and severity of collisions. Allocation: CON ENG $9,030,000 CONST $70,735,000 (Future consideration of funding approved under Resolution E-19-69; June 2019.) (EA 4F380/PPNO 03-9819 combined with STIP EA 3F283/PPNO 03-9824 for construction under EA 4F38U/Project ID 0321000092.) (Related STIP allocation for EA 3F283/PPNO 03-9824 under Resolution FP-20-97.) (SB 1 Baseline Agreement approval under Resolution SHOPP-P-1819-13B; June 2019.) (Eighteen month time extension for CONST and CON ENG approved under Waiver 20-31; June 2020.)
   (Source: June 2021 CTC Agenda, 2.5b.(5))

   In February 2006, the CTC considered relinquishment of right of way in the County of Butte, between Lower Honcut Road and Grover Lane, consisting of reconstructed and relocated county roads. (apx 070 BUT 0.949)

   In May 2015, the CTC authorized relinquishment of right of way in the county of Butte along Route 70 at East Gridley Road and Stimpson Road near Robinsons Corner, consisting of reconstructed county roads. (apx 070 BUT 4.018)

   State Route 70 Corridor Improvements Project (03-But-70, PM 5.7/12.1)

   In December 2018, the CTC approved for future consideration of funding a project located on Route 70 near Oroville in Butte County that proposes to widen Route 70 from 2 lanes to 4 lanes. The proposed project addresses the significant operational and safety concerns along the Route 70 Corridor. The proposed project involves two segments for funding purposes and will combine SHOPP and State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) funds from FYs 2019-20 and 2020-21 for each segment and is estimated to cost approximately $82.0 million in total. This project is currently programmed in the 2018 SHOPP for approximately $69.6 million. Construction is estimated to begin in 2018-19 for one segment and 2019-20 for the other segment. The scope, as described for the preferred alternative, is consistent with the project scope programmed by the Commission in the 2018 SHOPP.

   A copy of the MND has been provided to Commission staff. The project will result in less than significant impacts to the environment after mitigation. The following resource areas may be impacted by the project: parks and recreation, emergency services, Traffic, pedestrian and bicycle facilities, cultural resources, visual resources, water quality, geology/soils, paleontology, hazardous materials, biological resources. Avoidance and minimization measures will reduce any potential effects on the environment. These measures include, but are not limited to, a Traffic Control Plan shall be developed, disturbed areas shall be reseeded with native grass and wildflowers, a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan shall be developed, credits will be purchased at an off-site mitigation bank for impacts to wetlands and special species plants, and pre-construction surveys for the Western Pond Turtle will be conducted. As a result, an MND was completed for this project.
   (Source: December 2018 CTC Minutes, Agenda Item 2.2c(1))

   In March 2019, the CTC approved the following allocation: $19,700,000 Butte 03-But-70 8.8/12.1 PPNO 03-2294. Proj ID 0318000053. Route 70 Near Oroville, from 0.1 mile south of Palermo Road to 0.6 mile north of Ophir Road. Outcome/Output: Improve safety by widening for two-way left-turn lane and standard shoulders, and provide a roadside clear recovery zone. This project will reduce the number and severity of collisions. Future consideration of funding approved under Resolution E-18-155; December 2018.
   (Source: March 2019 CTC Minutes, Agenda Item 2.5b.(4) Project 1)

   In March 2020, the CTC approved the following financial allocation: 03-But-70 PM 5.6/9.1. PPNO 2295. ProjID 0318000054. EA 3H720. On Route 70 near Oroville, from 0.2 mile north of Cox Lane to 0.1 mile north of Palermo Road/Welsh Road. Outcome/Output: Improve safety by widening for two-way left-turn lane and standard shoulders, and provide a roadside clear recovery zone. This project will reduce the number and severity of collisions. (Future consideration of funding approved under Resolution E-18-155; December 2018.) (EA 3H720/PPNO 03-2295 combined with STIP EA 3F281/PPNO 03-9801A for construction under EA 3H72U/Project ID 0320000087.)  Financial allocation: $22,240,000.
   (Source: March 2020 CTC Agenda, Agenda Item 2.5b.(1) #8)

   In April 2006, the CTC considered a resolution to approve for future consideration of funding a project to upgrade Route 70 near Ophir Road (070 BUT 10.8/12.6) in Butte County to freeway, including construction of an interchange near Oroville. This was based on a Final Environmental Impact Report (FEIR) prepared due to the potential for significant levels of hazardous waste within the project limits. This project consists of three independent phases: a Safety phase, Phase 1, and Phase 2. The Safety phase is fully funded in the 2006 State Highway Operation and Protection Program for $10,213,000 for capital and support. Construction is estimated to begin in Fiscal Year (FY) 2006-07. Phase 1 is fully funded in the 2004 State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) for $25,886,000 for capital and support and is estimated to begin in FY 2007-08. Phase 2 is not funded. The total estimated cost of Phase 2 is $54,000,000, and the proposed year of construction is FY 2011-12.

   In May 2019, the CTC authorized relinquishment of right of way in the county of Butte (County) along Route 70 on Pacific Heights Road (03-But-70-PM 12.3/12.8, 2 segments), consisting of a relocated and reconstructed county road. The County by freeway agreement dated February 10, 2009, agreed to accept the relinquishment and by letter signed February 27, 2019, agreed to waive the 90-day notice requirement and accept title upon relinquishment by the State.
   (Source: May 2019 CTC Minutes, Agenda Item 2.3c)

   The SAFETEA-LU act, enacted in August 2005 as the reauthorization of TEA-21, provided the following expenditures on or near this route:

   • High Priority Project #1821: Construct an interchange on Route 70 at Georgia Pacific Road (03-But-70 12.482) in Oroville. $2,028,000.

   In July 2023, it was reported that the intersections of Route 70 with Route 162 (~ 03-But-70 13.95) and Montgomerty Street (~ 03-But-70 14.616) have had beautification improvements: Tile and metal mosaics, dry creek beds and non-irrigation landscaping. The dual-site beautification project is one of 126 similar projects along state highway systems funded through Gov. Gavin Newsom’s 2022 $1.2 billion Caltrans Clean California initiative. The initiative funding for the Oroville project is $1.8 million and the work is slated for completion by the end of July 2023. Designed to foster cultural connections and civic pride, the projects, 98% of which are in under-served communities throughout the state, are multiyear clean-up effort led by Caltrans to remove trash, create thousands of jobs and join with communities throughout the state to reclaim, transform and beautify public spaces. For the Oroville project, the installations of mosaic tile art and metal panels were created by local teens. Working with professional Rainforest Art Project artists, several dozen students from Oroville and Las Plumas high schools as well as volunteer artists from Brushstrokes Gallery participated in creating the eight mosaic panels that will be installed at the two interchanges. The panels include images “reflective of Oroville,” and include a salmon leaping from the water, an egret, a mallard in flight, an owl and a flicker. A second beautification project is also slated for Chico. This $2.9 million project is slated to improve and upgrade two highway interchanges along Route 99 at both East 20th Street (~ 03-But-99 R31.49) and the Skyway (~ 03-But-99 R30.634). Improvements include the installation of inert landscaping material and aesthetic fencing, slope paving and irrigation-free trees. Construction on the Chico project is expected to begin in September and be completed in March 2024.
   (Source: Chico Enterprise-Record, 7/13/2023)

   Wicks Corner Improvements

   The following project is planned this route: Construction of a new four-lane freeway along a route from 1.25 mi S of Route 149 (070 BUT R19.052R) to .25 mi N of Route 191 (070 BUT R22.1) in the County of Butte. This route is just N of Table Mountain Blvd. This was on the June 2003 agenda as a Route Adoption of a Controlled Access Highway at 03-But-70 KP 31.0/35.6 (PM 19.3/22.1) in the County of Butte.

   On July 24, 2008, Caltrans announced the opening of all four approaches to the new signal at the junction of Route 70/Route 191 (070 BUT R21.937). Also opened at that time was the new WB Route 70 alignment from the intersection of Route 191, including the connector ramp to westbound Route 70 and the ramp to northbound Route 149. The next day, the connector ramp from SB Route 149 to EB Route 70 opened. EB Route 70 from Oroville remained in its current alignment. This work was part of the $105 million project to make Route 149 a four-lane expressway with freeway-to-freeway interchanges at the intersections of Route 70/Route 149 and Route 99/Route 149. Completion is expected in 2009.

   In July 2010, the CTC authorized relinquishment of right of way in the county of Butte along Route 70 between Route 149 and Route 191 (3-But-70-PM 20.5/21.9).

   In October 2013, the CTC reviewed a project for future approval of funding. This project in Butte County will replace the existing Flag Canyon Creek Bridge (070 BUT 24.26) on Route 70 near the city of Oroville. The project is programmed in the 2012 State Highway Operation and Protection Program. The total estimated cost is $5,595,000 for capital and support. Construction is estimated to begin in Fiscal Year 2014-15. The scope, as described for the preferred alternative, is consistent with the project scope programmed by the Commission in the 2012 State Highway Operation and Protection Program.

   In September 2012, the CTC approved SHOPP funding of $4,040,000 on Route 70 in Butte County PM 28.2 near Oroville, at West Branch Feather River Bridge (#12-0134) (070 BUT 28.22). Outcome/Output: Seismic retrofit one bridge and repair of damaged worn elements.

   In November 2010, the CTC approved for future consideration of funding a project to seismically retrofit the West Branch Feather River Bridge (070 BUT 28.22) near Oroville (actually, closer to Pentz and Cherokee, PM 28.22). The project is programmed in the 2010 State Highway Operation and Protection Program. Construction is estimated to begin in Fiscal Year 2011-12. Total estimated project cost is $23,409,000 for capital and support. The scope as described for the preferred alternative is consistent with the project scope programmed by the Commission in the 2010 State Highway Operation and Protection Program. A copy of the Negative Declaration (ND) has been provided to Commission staff. The project will avoid and minimize potential impacts to storm water, water quality, and the American peregrine falcon. The project will also require construction activities in the habitat of the pallid bat and the cliff swallow. All of which are either State fully protected, State species of special concern, or protected by the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act. As a result, an ND was completed for this project.

   Vertical Alignment Corrections near Paradise (03-But-70 46.0/47.0)

   In January 2018, the CTC added the following project to the SHOPP: 03-But-70 46.0/47.0. Route 70 Near Paradise, from 0.8 mile west to 0.2 mile east of Shady Rest Area. Restore and repair damaged roadway by raising the existing vertical alignment by approximately five feet and protecting the embankment against future flooding with Rock Slope Protection (RSP) or a retaining structure. PA&ED Allocated at $1,700,000. Other phases not authorized yet. PA&ED: 10/11/2019. R/W: 11/10/2020. RTL: 12/05/2020. BC: 06/05/2021.
   (Source: CTC Agenda, January 2018, Agenda Item 2.1a(1))

   The 2020 SHOPP, approved in May 2020, included the following Major Damage Restoration item of interest (carried over from the 2018 SHOPP): 03-Butte-70 46.0/47.0 PPNO 2293 Proj ID 0318000012 EA 3H540. Route 70 Near Paradise, from 0.8 mile west to 0.2 mile east of Shady Rest Area. Restore and repair damaged roadway by raising the existing vertical alignment by approximately five feet and protecting the embankment against future flooding with Rock Slope Protection (RSP) or a retaining structure. Programmed in FY20-21, with construction scheduled to start in March 2021. Total project cost is $58,866K, with $45,966K being capital (const and right of way) and $12,900K being support (engineering, environmental, etc.),
   (Source: 2020 Approved SHOPP a/o May 2020)

   In January 2021, the CTC approved for future consideration of funding 03-But-70, PM 46.0/47.0 Pulga Profile Change Project. Raise existing roadway profile approximately 5 feet on Route 70 in Butte County. (MND) (PPNO 2293) (SHOPP) The project is located on Route 70 on the east bank North Fork Feather River within the Feather River Canyon in eastern Butte County approximately 4.3 miles northeast of the town of Pulga and 25 miles northeast of Oroville. This project proposes to improve a damaged section of roadway on Route 70 by raising the existing roadway profile in the project limits approximately 5 feet, replacing the Bear Creek Bridge, protecting the embankment with Rock Slope Protection, and placing an earth retaining structure against future flood damage. This project is fully funded and is currently programmed in the 2020 SHOPP for a total of $58,866,000 which includes Construction (capital and support) and Right of Way (capital and support). Construction is estimated to begin in 2022. The scope, as described for the preferred alternative, is consistent with the project scope programmed by the Commission in the 2020 SHOPP. A Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND) has been completed. The project will result in less than significant impacts to the environment after mitigation.  The following resource areas may be impacted by the project: wetland and other waters, biological resources, and cultural resources.  Avoidance and minimization measures will reduce any potential effects on the environment. These measures include, but are not limited to, the purchase of mitigation bank credits or offsite permittee responsible mitigation for waters and wetlands, rehabilitation of approximately 0.04 acres of creek channel and bank for biological resources, and the production of a short film documenting the evolution of the Feather River Canyon for cultural resources.
   (Source: January 2021 CTC Agenda, Agenda Item 2.2c.(1))

   In May 2021, the CTC approved the following pre-construction support phase allocation(s): (2a) #3. $4,200,000 (PS&E); $400,000 (R/W Sup). 03-But-70 46.0/47.0. PPNO 03-2293; ProjID 0318000012; EA 3H540. Route 70 Near Paradise, from 0.8 mile west to 0.2 mile east of Shady Rest Area. Restore and repair damaged roadway by raising the existing vertical alignment by approximately five feet and protecting the embankment against future flooding with Rock Slope Protection (RSP) or a retaining structure. (Future consideration of funding approved under Resolution E-21-03; January 2021.)  (Eleven month time extension for PS&E and R/W Sup approved under Waiver 20-31; June 2020.) Prog. year 20-21.
   (Source: May 2021 CTC Agenda, Agenda Item 2.5b.(2a) #3)

   In June 2022, the CTC approved the following construction phase allocation: $36,660,000. 03-But-70 46.0/47.0. PPNO 03-2293: ProjID 0318000012; EA 3H540. Route 70 Near Paradise, from 0.8 mile west to 0.2 mile east of Shady Rest Area. Outcome/Output: Restore and repair damaged roadway by raising the existing vertical alignment by approximately five feet and protecting the embankment against future flooding with Rock Slope Protection (RSP) or a retaining structure. Allocation: CON ENG $6,600,000; CONST $43,846,000.
   (Source: June 2022 CTC Agenda, Agenda Item 2.5b.(5))

   In August 2022, the CTC approved the following amendment to the SHOPP: 03-But-70 46.0/47.0. PPNO 03-2293; ProjID 0318000012; EA 3H540. Route 70 Near Paradise, from 0.8 mile west to 0.2 mile east of Shady Rest Area. Restore and repair damaged roadway by raising the existing vertical alignment by approximately five feet and protecting the embankment against future flooding with a soldier pile retaining wall, replace Bear Creek Bridge, and construct concrete barrier.. Allocation ($ × 1,000): PA&ED $0; PS&E $0; R/W Sup $0; Con Sup $5,000; R/W Cap $1,371; Const Cap $31,230; TOTAL $37,601. Begin Const: 12/14/2022. Concurrent CONST and CON ENG allocation under Resolution FP-22-10; August 2022. So what changed here? Note that the previous iterations had "protecting the embankment against future flooding with Rock Slope Protection (RSP) or a retaining structure". The updated amendment has a soldier pile retaining wall.
   (Source: August 2022 CTC Agenda, Agenda Item 2.1a.(1a) #2)

   In August 2022, the CTC approved the following construction phase allocation: $36,230,000. 03-But-70 46.0/47.0. PPNO 03-2293; ProjID 0318000012; EA 3H540. Route 70 Near Paradise, from 0.8 mile west to 0.2 mile east of Shady Rest Area. Outcome/Output: Restore and repair damaged roadway by raising the existing vertical alignment by approximately five feet and protecting the embankment against future flooding with a soldier pile retaining wall, replace Bear Creek Bridge, and construct concrete barrier. Programmed Allocation: CON ENG $5,000,000; CONST $31,230,000. CEQA - MND, 12/7/2020; Re-validation 5/9/2022. NEPA - FONSI, 4/6/2022; Re-validation 5/9/2022. Future consideration of funding approved under Resolution E-21-03; January 2021. As part of this allocation request, the Department is requesting to extend the completion of CONST and CON ENG an additional 12 months beyond the 36 month deadline. Concurrent Amendment under SHOPP Amendment 22H-003; August 2022.
   (Source: August 2022 CTC Agenda, Agenda Item 2.5b.(1) #12)

   In August 2018, the CTC approved $2,731,000 in SHOPP funding for Plumas 02-Plu-70 11.5/11.9: Route 70 Near Belden, from 2.1 miles to 1.6 miles west of Chipps Creek Bridge. Outcome/Output: Improve safety by realigning roadway curves, widening shoulders, adding new guardrail, and constructing a gabion-style retaining wall. This project will reduce the number and severity of collisions.
   (Source: August 2018 CTC Agenda Item 2.5f.(3) Item 5)

   In March 2015, the CTC approved for future consideration of funding a project in Plumas County near Quincy that will replace the existing Yellow Creek Bridge (070 PLU 14.90) and construct retaining walls, slope protection, guardrails, and other improvements. The project is programmed in the 2014 State Highway Operation and Protection Program (SHOPP). The total estimated cost is $13,420,000 for capital and support. Construction is estimated to begin in Fiscal Year 2016-17. The scope, as described for the preferred alternative, is consistent with the project scope programmed by the Commission in the 2014 SHOPP.

   Spanish Creek Bridge (070 PLU 35.32)

   In March 2006, the CTC considered a plan to replace an existing bridge near Keddie. This project is fully funded in the 2006 State Highway Operation and Protection Program (SHOPP). The total estimated project cost is $42,040,000. Construction is estimated to begin in Fiscal Year 2009-10. There are three alternatives:

   • Alternative A: This alternative would build a new bridge alongside the existing Spanish Creek bridge. The existing bridge would be seismically retrofitted and remain in active use.
   • Alternative B: This alternative would build a new bridge alongside the existing Spanish Creek bridge. The existing bridge would be removed.
   • No Build Alternative.

   In March 2009, the CTC approved for future consideration of funding a project to replace the existing Spanish Creek Bridge (070 PLU 35.32) and construct roadway improvements north of the city of Quincy. The project is programmed in the 2008 State Highway Operation and Protection Program. The total estimated project cost is $58,064,000, capital and support. Construction is estimated to begin in Fiscal Year 2009-10.

   In January 2018, the CTC approved for future consideration of funding a project on Route 70 (02-But-70, PM 42.06/42.21/46.44, 02-Plu-70, PM 23.67/31.82) in Butte and Plumas Counties: Construct fish passages at five tributaries along Route 70 in Butte and Plumas Counties. The project involves improvement of aquatic organism passage at five tributaries in Butte and Plumas Counties to the Feather River along Route 70. The five locations that are tributaries to the Feather River are Mill Creek, Bear Creek, Rush Creek, Soda Creek and an unnamed tributary. The project is fully funded by District 2 Minor A and United States Forest Service for an estimated $12.7 million. Construction is estimated to begin in Fiscal Year 2019-20. The scope, as described for the preferred alternative, is consistent with the project scope programmed by the Commission in the 2016 State Highway Operation and Protection Program (SHOPP).
   (Source: CTC Agenda, January 2018, Agenda Item 2.2c(1))

   Spring Garden Bridge

   In August 2015, the CTC approved for future consideration of funding a project in Plumas County that will rehabilitate and widen the Spring Garden Bridge (070 PLU 51.21) near the town of Quincy. The project is programmed in the 2014 State Highway Operation and Protection Program. The total estimated cost is $17,670,000 for capital and support. Construction is estimated to begin in Fiscal Year 2015-16. The scope, as described for the preferred alternative, is consistent with the project scope programmed by the Commission in the 2014 State Highway Operation and Protection Program.

   In August 2016, the CTC approved $13,545,000 for Plumas 02-Plu-70 50.6/51.7. Route 70 near Quincy, from 0.6 mile west to 0.5 mile east of Spring Garden Bridge Overhead No. 09-0062 (070 PLU 51.21). Outcome/Output: Rehabilitate the existing structure by replacing the bridge deck, widening to make shoulders standard, retrofitting the sub-structure, and installing standard bridge rail.

   In October 2017, it was reported that in Spring 2017, Plumas County residents encountered a traffic signal at the Spring Garden Bridge, 5 miles east of Quincy, that interrupted a normally fluid drive. It is quiet on top of the bridge, and if it weren’t for the signal and the extensive roadwork caution signs, commuters would probably never guess that underneath the 50-year-old bridge is a flurry of activity. The $10.2 million bridge rehabilitation project has been in the California Department of Transportation’s repair lineup for about six to seven years and is estimated to take about two years, 1,200 cubic yards of concrete, and 600,000 pounds of steel to complete. Because there are no alternate routes and the bridge has to remain functional for traffic, the project had to be divided into five stages. With the help of MCM Construction Inc. from Sacramento, the bridge is already in Stage 2 of the process. The piers that hold up the bridge are lined with a massive amount of lumber and falsework (temporary construction) that will be removed when the project is done. The crew is made up of 12 to 30 construction workers a day who have filled walls with thousands of pounds of concrete and widened the bents that hold the deck. The result will be a 16-foot wider bridge, with a higher friction surface that should reduce the accident rate on the roadway, updated railing and even a new bike lane. The project will pause for winter 2017 and the signal will be removed until weather permits the crew to start work again next spring. The next phase of work will then begin: repairing the deck, which will entail a complete replacement of the girders, supports and road surface, making one-way traffic a must.
   (Source: Plumas News, 10/13/2017)

   PPNO 3703 Feather River Inn (02-Plu-70, PM 58.2/R78.4, 65.8/R66.2)

   The 2018 STIP, approved at the CTC March 2018 meeting, appears to allocate $330K for PPNO 3703 Feather River Inn, intersection improvements (~ PLU R66.073), with the bulk of the work being done in FY21-22. The project scope is defined as a new road connection, in Plumas County near Blairsden from 0.4 mile east of Little Bear Road to 0.4 mile west of Route 89.

   In March 2020, the CTC approved the 2020 STIP, which continued the programmed funding for PPNO 3703 Feather River Inn, intersection improvements.
   (Source: March 2020 CTC Agenda, Item 4.7, 2020 STIP Adopted 3/25/2020)

   In May 2021, the CTC received notice that Caltrans proposes to delay construction (CON) on the Feather River Inn Intersection Improvement project (PPNO 3703) in Plumas County. The proposal notes that $200,000 in STIP Regional Improvement Program funds are programmed to support and capital for the CON phase of the Feather River Inn Intersection Improvement Project (PPNO 3703) in Fiscal Year 2021-22. The project limits for the Feather River Inn Intersection Improvement project lie within the project limits of the State Highway Operation and Protection Program (SHOPP) funded Cromberg Rehabilitation project (PPNO 3619).  To benefit from the economies of scale, and to minimize traffic impacts to the travelling public, both projects are planned to be combined into a single construction contract.  A value analysis completed for the Cromberg Rehabilitation project recommended that all non-standard horizontal and vertical curves be improved.  This curve improvement work, along with the identification of several additional culverts needing improvements, resulted in additional environmental studies, design work and right of way requirements. This additional effort has delayed all major delivery milestones for the Cromberg Rehabilitation project. Therefore, Caltrans is requesting to delay the CON phase of the Feather River Inn Intersection Improvement project (PPNO 3703) from 2021-22 to 2022-23 so that both STIP and SHOPP projects can still be delivered as a single construction contract. This STIP amendment was approved at the June 2021 CTC meeting.
   (Source: May 2021 CTC Agenda, Agenda Item 2.1b.(12); June 2021 CTC Agenda, Agenda Item 2.1a.(14))

   In October 2021, the CTC approved the following project for future consideration of funding: 02-Plu-70, PM 58.2/R78.4, 65.8/R66.2. Cromberg Rehabilitation & Feather River Inn Intersection. Rehabilitate pavement, drainage, and make other improvements on approximately 20 miles of Route 70 in Plumas County. (MND) (PPNO 3619) (SHOPP) (Related Item under Ref. 2.5b.(2)) This project is located on Route 70 between the communities of Cromberg and Portola, in Plumas County. The Department proposes to reconstruct the roadway and add 4 to 8-foot shoulders. In addition, it proposes to rehabilitate the roadway, repair or replace culverts, upgrade the guardrail, upgrade bridge railing at Humbug Creek Bridge, and make pedestrian facilities compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. This project is currently programmed in the 2020 State Highway Operation and Protection Program (SHOPP) for a total of $105,761,000, of which, $97,620,000 is currently through G-13 Contingency which includes Construction (capital and support). Construction is estimated to begin in 2022-23. The scope, as described for the preferred alternative, is consistent with the project scope as programmed by the Commission in the 2020 SHOPP.A copy of the MND has been provided to Commission staff.  The project will result in less than significant impacts to the environment after mitigation.
   (Source: October 2021 CTC Agenda, Agenda Item 2.2c.(1))

   In January 2023, the CTC approved an allocation request for $108,120,000 for the SHOPP Roadway Rehabilitation project on Route 70, in Plumas County, to advertise the project. This project is located on Route 70 in and near Cromberg and Portola, from Gill Ranch Road to west of the Big Grizzly Creek Bridge, in Plumas County (02-Plu-70 58.2/R78.4; PPNO 02-3619; ProjID 0216000024; EA 1H580).  The project will rehabilitate the roadway, rehabilitate and replace culverts, and upgrade guardrail, bridge railing at Humbug Creek Bridge № 09-0022, and pedestrian facilities to current standards. In March 2018, this project was programmed in the SHOPP for $88,050,000 in Construction  Capital and $6,810,000 in Construction Support for allocation in Fiscal Year 2021-22.  In May 2021, the project was amended to modify the scope and revise the programmed amount to $90,810,000 in Construction Capital. In June 2022, the project received a 9-month allocation time extension for the construction phase.  In October 2022, the project was amended to  program the unfunded G-13 Contingency construction phases for $90,810,000 in Construction Capital and $6,810,000 in Construction Support. In October 2022, the Engineer’s Estimate (EE) reflected the need of $99,040,000 in Construction Capital (9.1 percent over the programmed amount) and $9,080,000 in Construction Support (33.3 percent over the programmed amount). If this request is approved, the Department plans to advertise the project in February 2023, and begin construction in June 2023.  Construction is planned for three construction seasons for a duration of 360 working days. The Construction Capital and Support estimates are greater than the programmed amount due to the increase in quantities and unit price for earthwork and hot mix asphalt and the number of working days needed for the project.
   (Source: January 2023 CTC Agenda, Agenda Item 2.5d.(1))

   In January 2023, the CTC approved the following STIP allocation: $220,000. 02-Plu-70 65.8/R66.2. PPNO 02-3703; ProjID 0218000025; EA 3H740. Feather River Inn Intersection Improvement. Route 70 In Plumas County near Blairsden from 0.4 mile east of Little Bear Road to 0.4 mile west of Route 89. New road connection. CEQA - MND, 08/31/2021; Re-validation 11/21/2022. NEPA - CE, 08/31/2021; Re-validation 11/21/2022. Right of Way Certification: 06/29/2022. Future consideration of funding approved under Resolution E-21-88; October 2021. RIP RW savings, $17,000 to be credited to Plumus RIP Shares. CON ENG $50,000; CONST $170,000.
   (Source: January 2023 CTC Agenda, Agenda Item 2.5c.(1) #1)

   In December 2014, the CTC authorized relinquishment of right of way in the county of Plumas along Route 70 at 0.6 miles west of Grizzly Road (apx 070 PLU R78.759), consisting of collateral facilities. The County, by resolution dated April 16, 2013, waived the 90-day notice requirement and agreed to accept title upon relinquishment by the State. 

   Naming

   Note: The "Named Freeways, Highways, Structures and Other Appurtenances in California" document indicates that the Farm-to-Fork Corridor is along Route 70; however, the actual naming resolution designates the corridor as bieng along Route 99, from TEH 20.400 at Eldrid Avenue near the community of Dairyville to TEH 24.529 near Arch Street in the City of Red Bluff in the County of Tehama. Reference: Assembly Concurrent Resolution (ACR) 27, Res. Chapter 109, Statutes of 2021, 09/07/21.

   The portion of Route 20 from YUB 0.000 to YUB R3.389 and Route 70 from YUB 13.604 to YUB 15.850 in the City of Marysville in the County of Yuba is designated as part of the National Purple Heart Trail. The resolution designating these segments noted that the Marysville Veterans Memorial Center is located on the west side of Route 70 in the City of Marysville and is the home of the Marysville Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 948 and the Veterans Memorial Wall for Purple Heart Recipients, Veterans, and Honoring Pearl Harbor. It also noted that the historic Marysville Cemetery is located on the east side of Route 70 in the City of Marysville and is the final resting place of approximately 104 veterans, some of whom are Purple Heart recipients, from all wars fought by the United States beginning with the Mexican-American War. Lastly, it noted that the Marysville Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 948 wished to continue the National Purple Heart Trail through the City of Marysville on Route 20 and Route 70; and that Senior Vice Commander Brock Bowen of the Marysville Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 948 took the initiative to bring the National Purple Heart Trail through the City of Marysville. Designed by Assembly Resolution ACR 19, Res. Chapter 106, Statutes of 2021, on September 7, 2021

   The portion of this route from Oroville (~ BUT 13.236) to Quincy (~ PLU R43.256R) was historically named the "Feather River Highway". A plaque was installed in September 1995 that reads: "This highway was opened to auto traffic on August 14, 1937 as State Route 24. It was later changed to State Route 40A and finally to State Route 70. The initial cost of this 70 mile stretch was 8 million dollars. The cost of repair from the February 1986 flood was over 10 million. On October 3, 1987 a celebration was held at the Plumas County Courthouse in Quincy celebrating the 50th anniversary of the opening of the Feather River Highway. Stanley C. Young, Plumas County Superior Court Judge was chairman of the celebration."
   (Image source: NoeHill Travels)

   The portion of this route from Pacific Heights/Georgia Pacific Way to the westbound ramp of Garden Drive (~ BUT 12.498 to BUT 16.622) is named the "Post No. 1747 Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States Memorial Highway". This section of Route 70 runs near the Headquarters of Post No. 1747; the naming was in honor of the 100th Anniversary of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, and the 70th Anniversary of Post No. 1747 in Oroville. Named by Assembly Concurrent Resolution 149, Chapter 97, July 12, 2000.

   The junction between Route 70 and Route 149 near the City of Oroville (~ BUT R20.643R), in the County of Butte, is named the "Wick's Corner Interchange". This segment was named in memory of Moses Wick, born in Ohio in 1822. Moses Wick served in the Mexican War under the command of General Zachary Taylor, who eventually became President of the United States. In 1852, Moses Wick moved to California with his wife Maria in a wagon train pulled by his team of oxen on a journey that took six months. The land in the area of the current cloverleaf junction between Route 70 and Route 149 was deeded in 1852 to Moses Wick as a reward for his military service. On September 3, 1852, Moses Wick made a homestead of the 160 acre territory and began raising cattle as a pioneer cattle rancher. Through purchases and other land grants, he eventually owned about 800 acres adjacent to "Wick's Corner". Wick made a modest living as a butcher by selling and supplying beef to gold miners and merchants in the area. He also used his faithful team of oxen to haul freight and cargo back and forth to the mines between Oroville and Sacramento. Moses Wick died in 1888 at the age of 66 years and was survived by his second wife Roxie Ann, his son Charles, and daughter Ella Wick Crum. He cattle ranch was operated until his son Charles sold most of the ranch to Senator Thomas Rockhill in 1906 for $25,000. The cattle ranch became a tavern and an early stagecoach stop for the Central Pacific Railroad. Although Wick's historic home was demolished in 1947, this area continues to be known as "Wick's Corner". The modern Route 70 was constructed in the 1960s when the former highway was submerged beneath the rising waters of Lake Oroville. Mrs. Merle McAndrews, the great granddaughter of both Moses Wick and Senator Thomas Rockhill, still lives on the property in a portion of one of the original ranches that was built more than 70 years ago. Named by Assembly Concurrent Resolution (ACR) 39, Resolution Chapter 71, on 7/3/2007.
   (Image sources: Enterprise Record)

   Beckwourth Pass (LAS 0) is named for James P. Beckwourth, a frontiersman who was born in Virginia and traveled to California in 1844. There have been various spellings of his name. He is credited with discovering the pass that bears his name in 1850. It soon became an important immigrant route, crossing Plumas and Butte Counties, and ending in Marysville. Beckwourth built a home in Sierra Valley in 1852 and set up a trading post. In the course of time, the pass was used by the Western Pacific Railroad. A tunnel goes under the actual pass. Railroad surveyors succeeded in plotting  the crossing of the Sierra without ever exceeding a one percent grade. To achieve that, they prescribed a loop near the hamlet of Spring Garden.
   (Source:  Bill Sanford "Getting out of the Central Valley: Highway passes to the east" (emailed draft 10/1/2010); Image source: NoeHill Travels in California; California Historical Landmarks; Colorado Virtual Library)

   Named Structures

   Tunnel 09-0001 (PLU 000.73), in Plumas county near Tobin, is named the "Grizzly Dome Tunnel". It was built in 1936. Grizzly Dome Tunnel is one of three tunnels built by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) along the Feather River Highway in northeast California.  The tunnels were the final pieces in the construction of the Feather River highway (Route 70)  by the State of California (1928-37).
   (Image source: The Living New Deal)

   Tunnel 09-0024 (PLU 000.99) in Plumas county is named the "Elephant Butte Tunnel". It was built in 1937, and was named through historical and long usage. Elephant Butte Tunnel is one of three tunnels blasted through granite by Works Progress Administration (WPA) workers along the Feather River Highway (present highway 70) in northeast California.  The tunnels were the final pieces in the construction of the Feather River highway by the State of California (1928-37).  Elephant Butte tunnel is the northern-most tunnel of the three. The tunnels were blasted through solid granite in and around Grizzly Dome. Rock from the tunnels was used for rock safety walls along the highway.
   (Image and information source: The Living New Deal)

   This route also has the following Safety Roadside Rest Areas:

   • Massack, in Plumas County, 6.5 mi E of Quincy. (PLU 49.736)
     (Image source: Caltrans District 2 on FB)
   • Lester T. Davis, in Plumas County, 3 mi E of Portola. It was named after Lester T. Davis, a member of the California State Assembly from 1946 to 1952, when he died in office. (PLU R79.144)
     (Image Source: JoinCalifornia)

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Acronyms and Explanations:

• "LRN" refers to the Pre-1964 Legislative Route Number. "US" refers to a US Shield signed route. "I" refers to an Eisenhower Interstate signed route. "Route" usually indicates a state shield signed route, but said route may be signed as US or I.
• Previous Federal Aid (pre-1992) categories: Federal Aid Interstate (FAI); Federal Aid Primary (FAP); Federal Aid Urban (FAU); and Federal Aid Secondary (FAS). Current Functional Classifications (used for aid purposes): Principal Arterial (PA); Minor Arterial (MA); Collector (Col); Rural Minor Collector/Local Road (RMC/LR). Note that ISTEA repealed the previous Federal-Aid System, effective in 1992, and established the functional classification system for all public roads.
• Other frequently used terms: California Transportation Commission (Commission or CTC), California Department of Transportation (Department or Caltrans), Regional Improvement Program (RIP), Interregional Improvement Program (IIP), State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP), State Highway Operation and Protection Program (SHOPP), Traffic Congestion Relief Program (TCRP), Clean Air and Transportation Improvement Act of 1990 (Proposition 116), High Speed Passenger Train Bond Program (Proposition 1A), Highway Safety, Traffic Reduction, Air Quality, and Port Security Bond Act of 2006 (Proposition 1B), Corridor Mobility Improvement Account (CMIA), State Route 99 Bond Program (RTE or SR 99), Local Bridge Seismic Retrofit Account (LBSRA), Trade Corridors Improvement Fund (TCIF), Highway-Railroad Crossing Safety Account (HRCSA), State-Local Partnership Program (SLPP), Environmental Phase (PA&ED), Design Phase (PS&E), Right of Way (R/W), Fiscal Year (FY), Active Transportation Program (ATP), Trade Corridor Enhancement Program (TCEP), Local Partnership Program (LPP), Local Streets and Roads Program (LSRP), Solutions for Congested Corridors Program (SCCP).

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