CLEARLAKE, Calif. – A rehabilitation project on Highway 53 that will include a new traffic light and other safety upgrades has begun.

Caltrans reported on Friday that the project is under way along Highway 53, stretching from 40^th Avenue to Highway 20.

Crews will repave roughly four miles of highway, widen the highway shoulders, add and extend turn pockets at intersections, and install lighting at intersections, according to Caltrans spokesman Phil Frisbie.

One of the project's main components will be in the installation of a traffic signal at the intersection of Highway 53 and Olympic Drive, Frisbie said. The signal will replace temporary stop signs placed there last spring.

The stoplight project – which had, at one point, looked as if it would be delayed – has been moved up, according to Frisbie.

“We have also modified the contractor's schedule to focus on widening and paving the south section near Olympic Drive first so we can install the signal this fall, instead of next fall,” he said.

Frisbie said the project's purpose is to bring that section of Highway 53 up to current design standards and enhance safety for all highway users – motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians.

He said work is anticipated to be completed by fall 2012.

Work hours are 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., weekdays. Frisbie said one-way traffic control will be in effect, and motorists should anticipate 10-minute delays.

For the most current road information on all state highways, call 1-800-427-7623 (1-800-GAS-ROAD) or visit www.dot.ca.gov.

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