Merced County State Route (SR) 165 Intersection Control Improvement

The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), District 10, is implementing the Merced County State Route 165 Intersection Control Improvement project under solicitation 10-1Q050. Located at the intersection of State Route 165 and Willmott Road in Los Banos, the project aims to reduce the frequency and severity of broadside collisions by replacing the existing intersection with a single lane roundabout. The scope of work includes ground disturbance, vegetation clearing, the removal of road striping and treated wood waste, and necessary upgrades to drainage and utilities. The project will require the partial take of three residential properties for right of way and will be executed during daytime hours with established detours for local traffic. The project is classified as a Categorical Exemption under CEQA and NEPA, with no significant impacts anticipated for protected species, historic properties, or hazardous materials. Compliance is mandated through various Caltrans Standard Specifications, including the implementation of a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan for water pollution control, as well as strict adherence to dust, air pollution, and noise control standards. Specifically, noise levels must not exceed 86 dBA Lmax at 50 feet between 9:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., and all internal combustion engines must utilize manufacturer-recommended mufflers. Environmental and project coordination is managed by Senior Environmental Scientist Jonathan Coley.