Skies have cleared and the work to remove the Austin Road overcrossing in Manteca is underway.
 
The overcrossing was closed early Wednesday, Feb. 19, with detours around the work for the next 18 months or so. Inclement weather and other factors caused several delays of the initial start date earlier this month.

The pivotal work to remove the 1950s-era Austin Road overcrossing, or bridge, in Manteca is the next major step in the highway-to-highway State Route 99/120 Connector project overseen by the San Joaquin Council of Governments (SJCOG). The project will replace the overcrossing with a longer structure spanning a wider State Route 99 and Union Pacific Railroad tracks. In the long run, the work will improve safety, ease traffic congestion, enhance mobility and goods movement, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions for better air quality.

The overcrossing closure and detour are required so motorists can safely drive around the work and will be in place for about a year and a half. Directional signs and traffic controls will be in place to make the detour as seamless as possible for motorists. Motorists are encouraged to plan ahead, allow extra travel time, and consider carpooling or using public transit where possible. Please note that construction work is subject to change without notice.

SJCOG recommends that travelers sign up to receive construction-related updates via text or by email by visiting SR99-120connector.com.