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Public can submit comments on plan to improve Hwy 101/Wellsona Rd. intersection

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Posted at 6:22 PM, Sep 25, 2019
and last updated 2019-09-25 21:51:11-04

The California Department of Transportation is asking for the community's input on the Highway 101 Wellsona Safety Improvement Project.

Caltrans is proposing an undercrossing just south of the intersection of Wellsona Road and Highway 101.

The undercrossing will include a 112 foot-long bridge along Highway 101.

Jim Shivers of Caltrans believes the project will help improve safety for tourists and locals using the roadway.

"By pursuing this project, we are going to be eliminating vehicles making left-hand turns in front of oncoming traffic. Having this undercrossing will allow the motorist to go in a completely different direction," Shivers said.

According to Caltrans, the project is aimed at improving the intersection which has been the scene of several deadly accidents.

Roberto Cruz, who works at a nearby trucking company, says he doesn't think the intersection needs any changes.

"You shouldn't have any problems on this road. The underpass - that's going to be a big traffic jam and I think that might cause a little bit more of a traffic issue than just letting it be the way it is," Cruz said.

The public comment period on this project began on September 20 and will continue until October 20.

Caltrans will move forward with the project as designed if there are no major concerns or requests for a hearing during this time.

The initial study will be available for review and copying at the Caltrans District 5 Office located at 50 Higuera Street in San Luis Obispo, weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The document will also be available for review at the following locations:

Paso Robles Public Library at 1000 Spring Street, Paso Robles

San Miguel Library at 254 13th Street, San Miguel

San Luis Obispo Planning and Building Department at 976 Osos Street, Room 200, San Luis Obispo

The initial study is also available online.

Public comments or a request for a public hearing can be emailed to Caltrans Senior Environmental Planner Matt Fowler at matt.fowler@dot.ca.gov or sent by US Mail to Matt Fowler, Caltrans District 5, 50 Higuera Street, San Luis Obispo, CA. 93401 by October 20.