Caltrans to close left-turns at 11 intersections south of Salinas; temporary barriers targeted by March 1, 2027

Caltrans District 5 announced a near-term safety project for the Highway 101 corridor south of Salinas that will install a median barrier to prohibit left turns at 11 at‑grade intersections, project manager Meg Henry said. The change is intended to reduce fatal and injury collisions that occur when drivers cross the median or make left turns.

"We are actually out to bid right now for a contractor on this project, and we expect to be awarding the contract to a contractor in October," Henry said. She added Caltrans is projecting temporary barriers to close all 11 intersections "not later than 03/01/2027," with mobilization and construction expected to begin between November and January depending on contractor timing and weather. Right-in/right-out movements will be retained at affected locations; Caltrans said it will use a metal beam rather than a concrete barrier.

Henry said the safety package includes targeted ramp-and-truck-movement improvements at the Chualar area — widening the southbound off-ramp and modifying ramp geometry — and an additional stop sign at a local intersection requested by Supervisor Lopez and community members. Caltrans stressed the safety measures are short-term steps intended to remain until the longer corridor improvement project is completed.

Caltrans staff said they will post updates on a project portal and by email (sign-up via a QR code on the portal) and plan open house meetings in October. The district asked community organizations to repost outreach messages and is working closely with the Transportation Agency for Monterey County and Monterey County public works on funding and implementation.