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County supervisors, Caltrans discuss Valley Springs SR 12/26 signal timing and construction impacts
Summary
Board members and Caltrans staff discussed traffic backups and local safety concerns at the Highway 12/26 intersection near Valley Springs after construction and a new signal prompted residents and a supervisor to ask for a traffic study and interim mitigation.
A Calaveras County supervisor urged Caltrans on Oct. 1 to delay turning on a new signal at the Highway 12 and Highway 26 intersection near Valley Springs until traffic studies and mitigation could be completed, citing prolonged backups that have worsened since construction closed a lane.
“I'm asking you right now and upfront, finish your projects, but don't turn that light on, until you at least do a study,” the supervisor told Caltrans staff, saying school buses and morning commuters were facing long delays and that traffic was frequently backed up to Vista Del Lago.
Caltrans staff acknowledged the existing construction-related congestion and said they would investigate interim traffic-management measures. A Caltrans representative told the meeting, “I'll work with our deputy of construction and see what we can do in the interim like you suggested. Maybe that could be a solution to come up with the sidewalk or get that thing, taken care first and then, be ready for the winner.”
The supervisor said a promised traffic study after signal activation could take “anywhere from a year to a year and a half,” and then another year for project development, potentially leaving residents to cope with two to two-and-a-half years of degraded conditions if mitigation is not found.
Caltrans staff said they would re-evaluate traffic management during construction, consider turning lanes and storage improvements, and investigate signal timing once the signal is operational. Staff noted a previous feasibility review that found a roundabout would not fit the location because of large-truck movements and right-of-way limitations; they said operational improvements or phased construction may be the most feasible path forward.
Residents and board members asked Caltrans to prioritize interim measures, including reopening a closed right-hand lane used for driveway access and covering construction material that is affecting nearby businesses. Caltrans agreed to raise those concerns with the construction team and explore short-term traffic-management steps.
No formal directive to delay signal activation was entered at the meeting. Caltrans staff committed to further investigation, to coordinate with county staff and stakeholders, and to return with recommendations.
