MCOG details North State Street roundabout plans and bridge improvements to improve bike and pedestrian safety

Mendocino Council of Governments staff walked attendees through plan pages for two proposed roundabouts and an associated bridge replacement on North State Street, saying the State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) funds supported design and a construction phase target in the late 2020s.

Project details: Staff said the North State Street intersection improvement was first programmed in 2012 and that MCOG awarded funding for the project. The plans include a roundabout at the intersection near the high school and a teardrop-shaped roundabout near the southbound U.S. 101 interchange to reduce backups on the off-ramp. Officials described 65% design completion, environmental clearance and an active right-of-way appraisal.

Bridge work and fish passage: Staff described an adjacent bridge replacement project (highway bridge program) that widens the structure, lowers the roadway profile for safer access to nearby parking, and adds a fish-passage design developed in coordination with tribal partners and state resource agencies. "If any of you have driven over it, remember the existing bridge — it was very narrow. With wider infrastructure, it'll be safer for bikes and pedestrians," a project presenter said.

Timing and cost: Officials discussed a construction horizon of 2027–2029 depending on funding; for the bridge replacement they cited a construction cost estimate in the low double-digit millions and said local match funds came from multiple sources. Staff emphasized coordination with Caltrans because the roundabout at the interchange will affect state-managed ramps.

Next steps: Staff will complete right-of-way appraisal and continue coordination with Caltrans, then return to the board with final schedules and construction procurement information.