In a significant development within California's transportation infrastructure, Skanska has announced a new contract worth USD 102 million (approximately SEK 1.1 billion) with Caltrans, aimed at enhancing the condition, operation, and sustainability of State Route 78 in San Diego County. The project, which is set to commence in April 2025, is part of ongoing efforts to improve roadway safety and efficiency in the region.
Project Scope and Details
The scope of this ambitious project includes several critical improvements along State Route 78, extending approximately from Interstate 5 to about one mile east of Interstate 15. Specific enhancements will encompass:
- - Construction of an Acceleration Lane: One of the main features of the project is the addition of an acceleration lane for eastbound traffic on Route 78. This improvement is designed to facilitate smoother merges and enhance traffic flow in this busy corridor.
- - Rehabilitation of Over 40 Lane-Miles: Skanska will rehabilitate existing road surfaces to ensure structural integrity and rider comfort. This extensive resurfacing effort will address wear and tear from heavy traffic and environmental conditions.
- - Upgraded Infrastructure to ADA Standards: The project will also focus on enhancing accessibility by building new curb ramps compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This will ensure that all pedestrians, including those with disabilities, can navigate the roadway safely.
- - Installation of New Guardrails and Pavement: Additional improvements include upgrading to Midwest Guardrail systems and installing beyond gore paving, which are crucial for improving safety.
- - New Bridge Barriers: To further enhance safety measures, new bridge barriers will be established as part of the project’s infrastructure upgrades.
Expected Impact
This project is expected to significantly improve safety and operational standards along a critical segment of California's road network. The enhancements are not just limited to immediate traffic flow improvements but also reflect a long-term commitment to sustainability and public safety. Increased infrastructure reliability is anticipated to contribute positively to local economic growth and community connectivity.
Timeline and Future Prospects
Construction is slated to kick off in April 2025, with the project aiming for completion by December 2026. As Skanska embarks on this endeavor, stakeholders, including local communities and businesses, will be closely monitoring the progress. The financial commitment made by Skanska underscores their dedication to enhancing road conditions and meeting the growing transportation needs in San Diego County.
Conclusion
As urban areas continue to grow and evolve, infrastructure improvements like those planned for State Route 78 are essential. With Skanska's extensive experience in large-scale construction projects, expectations are high for a quality execution of this vital work. This investment not only signifies a robust response to current transportation challenges but also highlights California's broader efforts to enhance the sustainability and resilience of its infrastructure for future generations. For more information about this development, the public can reach out to Skanska's communications team.
Contact for Media Inquiries:
- - Meghan Carvalho, Communications Manager, Skanska USA, tel: +1 (951) 675 2337
- - Andreas Joons, Press Officer, Skanska Group, tel: +46 (0)10 449 04 94
For press releases and updates, visit
Skanska’s official website.