Drivers Calling Latest Barrier Change On Across The Top Project Dangerous
SACRAMENTO (CBS13) - It's meant to direct drivers where to go, but some drivers are calling the newest barrier in the across-the-top project along Interstate 80 dangerous.
We've shown you many of the fixes along that stretch of 80 through Sacramento, but you might not have seen it. Caltrans says this is going to take some getting used to and motorists should travel with caution. But your commute may get really messy, and travelers we spoke to say it's a traffic nightmare.
"It's a death trap; for as many people that use it, it's gonna cause trouble," said driver John Maida.
It's tricky and comes at you quick.
RELATED: Accidents More Than Double After Across The Top Project Lane Shift On Interstate 80
"It used to be about 1/2 mile before you can exit Truxel and now it's about 150 feet, so it's pretty gnarly," said Ross Ashley.
The new Caltrans Interstate 80 westbound traffic configuration is part of the ongoing Across The top
Project.
"What we've done is shifted the traffic to the far left side because there's ongoing demolition and repaving that needs to be done on the project," said Caltrans spokesperson Dennis Keaton.
The issue is most notably from west of Northgate Boulevard to the Sacramento River.
"People cutting people off; people don't know what to do and there's no signage," said a driver.
"Now with the exit quicker, there's even more cars cutting me off. It's far more of a nightmare than it ever was before," said Maida.
Caltrans has dropped speeds to 55 miles per hour.
"People need to slow down in a construction area, they need to be aware," said a driver.
It's right before the Truxel Road exit where you have to make a big decision, especially if you're in the express lane and are trying to get onto Interstate 5, there are only a couple of signs to give you a heads up, and a short stretch for you to exit.
There is just one access point to make the Truxel Road exit and the Interstate 5 interchange. If you miss it, express lane traffic will not have any access to local exits until the Reed Avenue exit on the other side of the Sacramento River in West Sacramento.
"We're still constantly looking at what can be improved. Again, if it's a signage issue, we'll look into that," said Keaton.
And, of course, with the on and off showers like we've been seeing, it's just another reminder to be extra careful on the roads
The project is 75 percent complete. They are expecting it to be complete as early as the end of summer.
