Changes are coming to Ave. 12 near the Highway 41 intersection after many deaths in the area over the years.
Road improvements will start next year and will take 12 to 18 months to complete.
The big picture: Long-term traffic improvements include constructing two right-turn lanes southbound onto Highway 41 from eastbound Ave. 12.
- The county also plans to put traffic signals at the intersections at Riverstone Blvd. Southeast and Riverstone Blvd. Southwest.
- Other improvements include constructing a six-lane road from Highway 41 through Riverwalk Blvd., transition six-lane to four-lane road through Road 40 and construct a concrete raised median for the entire corridor from Highway 41 to Road 40.
Go deeper: Along with the road improvements, Madera County plans to have interim improvements in place by the end of the month.
- That includes partnering with California Highway Patrol for increased enforcement presence along the Avenue 12 and Highway 41 corridor with a focus on speed, cell phone use, DUI and commercial vehicle compliance.
- The county will place “slow down” signs at key locations on Ave. 12.
- Home builder signage in right-of-ways along Ave. 12 between Highway 41 and Road 40 will be removed.
- The county is also adding a left-turn pocket and a temporary signal at Riverstone Blvd. Southwest.
What they’re saying: Madera County Supervisor Jordan Wamhoff said the change is a long time coming, aimed at quickly rectifying growing safety concerns.
- “The people of the Ranchos and southeastern Madera County are being heard loud and clear. Along with pressing Sacramento for greater enforcement on big rigs through the CHP, I’m working hard to ensure the County takes the steps necessary as quickly as possible to make Ave. 12 safe for all travelers,” Wamhoff said in a statement to The Sun.
