The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, led by Supervisor Kathryn Barger, advanced plans for a critical infrastructure upgrade along The Old Road in the Santa Clarita Valley Tuesday.
The $250 million project aims to enhance traffic flow, safety, and multi-modal transportation by replacing two bridges, widening The Old Road, and upgrading surrounding streets, according to L.A. County documents.
“This project represents a critical investment in the future of our Santa Clarita Valley communities and the regional safety of our roadways,” Barger said. “By improving traffic flow, enhancing pedestrian and bike access, and strengthening our infrastructure, we are setting the stage for a safer, more accessible, and more reliable transportation network. These improvements will serve our residents for generations to come.”
Project Overview
The Old Road runs parallel to the I-5 Freeway, a key transportation corridor connecting the western U.S. with Mexico and Canada. The project includes widening The Old Road from four to six lanes, adding protected bicycle lanes, and upgrading road design to meet modern safety standards. This will ensure efficient traffic operations and provide better emergency vehicle access.
Key improvements include:
- Replacement of the Santa Clara River bridge, currently classified as structurally deficient.
- Reconstruction of the bridge over the abandoned Southern Pacific Railroad.
- Development of a Santa Clara River multi-use trail using portions of the old railroad right-of-way.
Project Phases
The project will be completed in two phases:
- Phase 1: Widening from Rye Canyon Road to Henry Mayo Drive.
- Phase 2: Widening from Rye Canyon Road to Magic Mountain Parkway, including bridge replacements.
Funding and Environmental Compliance
Phase 1 construction costs range between $19 million and $28 million. Funding sources include:
- $15 million from a 2009 Call for Projects grant.
- $14.2 million from Measure R Highway Funds.
- $7 million from Measure R Local Return Funds.
- $1.3 million from Measure M Local Return Funds.
An Environmental Impact Report (EIR) has been certified in compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
Potential effects on traffic, water quality, cultural places, and biological resources are addressed by mitigation strategies. Protection of cultural resources has been guaranteed through consultations with the Fernandeño Tataviam Band of Mission Indians.
“This project improves accessibility for communities that rely on The Old Road for commuting, commerce, and emergency access,” said Mark Pestrella, P.E., Director of L.A. County Public Works. “The upgrades enhance the corridor’s capacity to handle growing traffic and ensure safe, efficient transportation, especially during emergencies.”
Full road closures are not expected during construction, which is expected to begin in the spring of 2025.
PW, Public Works, Santa Clara, old road
Old Road Santa Clarita Rye Canyon Road and Skyview Lane Pre Con
Next Steps
The Board authorized Los Angeles County Public Works to solicit bids for Phase 1 construction. Following environmental and regulatory approvals, construction is set to begin, promising a safer, more accessible transportation network for commuters, cyclists, and pedestrians throughout the Santa Clarita Valley.
Project details and documents are available at Los Angeles County Public Works.
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