Willits Bypass - News

Public Supportive of Phased Willits Bypass Plans

Caltrans held an informational public meeting Wednesday, August 22 to discuss the Willits Bypass Project, Phase 1. This long anticipated project will add a new segment of Route 101 that will bypass the City of Willits, which will reduce downtown Willits traffic congestion and increase pedestrian safety. The event was held at Willits City Hall. More than 120 people were in attendance, including representatives from Assemblymember Patty Berg’s office, Senator Pat Wiggins’ office, Mendocino Council of Governments (MCOG), and Mendocino County Resource Conservation District. Most of the attendees expressed support for the bypass, and those with questions and concerns were provided with answers by Caltrans employees on hand.

Phase 1 of the ultimate four-lane bypass project is being funded by the State Transportation Improvement Program and MCOG. Phase 1, a two lane bypass, will include a four-lane interchange on the south end of Willits near Haehl Creek and a two-lane interchange on the north end at Quail Meadows. Construction is scheduled to begin Summer 2010, with completion by Spring 2014. As soon as funding is available, Caltrans will construct Phase 2, which will add two more lanes to complete the four-lane bypass. All maps, displays, and handouts provided at the open house can be downloaded from the project website.

Over the next few months Caltrans Right-of-Way Agents will begin negotiations to purchase parcels to clear the right-of-way for the four-lane bypass. These negotiations will begin with property owners on the south end of the project, and progress to the north. It is anticipated that the purchase of all parcels will be completed by fall 2009.