19TH AVENUE/HIGHWAY 1 TRAFFIC SIGNAL UPGRADE PROJECT FAQs

Q: What is happening on 19th Ave./Highway 1/Park Presidio Blvd.?

A: Caltrans, in partnership with the City of San Francisco, is currently embarking upon a major three-phase project to upgrade 34 existing traffic signals along the route 1, also known as 19th Ave. south of Golden Gate Park and Park Presidio Blvd to the north. The improvements are comprised of new signal poles, mast arms, detector loops, intersection safety lights, pedestrian countdown signals, audible signals (where justified), upgraded wheelchair ramps, and signal interconnect upgrade from copper to fiber-optic cable. Once this project is completed, the new and interconnected signal system will enhance pedestrian safety and improve traffic flow during peak periods along the corridor.

Q: When will the traffic signal upgrade start and be completed?

A: The first phase, set to begin construction March 2008 and completed in summer 2009, aims to upgrade 10 critical intersections. The second phase, encompassing 16 intersections, is expected to be advertised in spring 2008 and completed in summer 2010. The remaining eight sections are grouped into phase three with project initiation currently underway to facilitate programming and funding.

Q: How much will the traffic signal upgrades cost?

A: The estimated cost for the traffic signal upgrades is $18.4 million (phase 1 = $4 million, phase 2 = $8.4 million, and phase 3 = $6 million). This amount is subject to refinement dependent upon securing funding for phase three.

Q: Will the roads remain open during all of the construction work?

A: Yes. There will not be any lane closures most of the time; otherwise, at least one lane in each direction will be open to traffic. However, special circumstances may necessitate brief full road closures.

Q: How do I find out about closures/detours and traffic delays caused by construction?

A: Detailed information can be found on this website. For current traffic conditions and driving times during a closure, please call 511 or visit 511.org.

Q: What are the planned hours of construction?

A: There are no restrictions on the hours of construction, however, noise levels from the contractor’s operations, between the hours of 9pm and 6am, shall be restricted.

Q: How will bus stops be affected?

A: Bus stops located adjacent to the intersection undergoing upgrades will be merged with the next closest bus stop.

Q: Are the signals going to be connected once the upgrades are made?

A: Yes.