The Paige Avenue portion of the project will reconstruct four ramps to make a cohesive multimodal interchange that includes roundabouts at the ends of the ramps and nearby intersections. Google Earth image

Fresno Rep. Jim Costa announced $98 million to widen Highway 99 in Tulare at the Paige Avenue multimodal interchange in efforts to relieve traffic congestion.

The funding comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Nationally Significant Multimodal Freight & Highway Projects (INFRA) grant program bolstered by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

“Thanks to the support of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we are taking significant steps toward creating a more efficient and reliable transportation network for our community,” said Costa. “This vital funding will directly benefit the people of Tulare County by reducing traffic congestion and improving access to local businesses and essential services

The California Department of Transportation (CalTrans) will use the funding to expand about 5.4 miles of freeway from four to six lanes, adding a lane in each direction.

The construction zone goes from south of the Avenue 200 overpass to the north of the Prosperity Avenue overpass.

The project will reconstruct four ramps to make a cohesive multimodal interchange that includes roundabouts at the ends of the ramps and nearby intersections.

A 10-foot-wide, shared-use paths on both sides of Paige Avenue would create an east-west corridor for different modes of transportation.

Funding from the state amounts to $43.6 million and $186.5 million in federal funding with a total construction cost of $162 million.

Construction will begin in the winter of 2027 and is expected to be completed by fall 2029.

Right-of-way acquisition is proposed to be complete by summer 2026, with design complete by spring 2026. The project would be advertised in fall 2026 with construction expected in 2027.

Woodlake Mayor Rudy Mendoza said the funding will bring dramatic improvements to Highway 99 in Tulare.

“Highway 99 has been the most dangerous road in America for years, but we are changing that by working with our partners throughout the Valley,” said Mendoza. “We competed for this funding against projects from across the nation and could not have been successful without the support of the Valley’s home team in Congress, Congressmen David Valadao, Jim Costa, and Vince Fong. Our Congressional delegation has gone to bat for the Valley time and time again, and this funding is another demonstration of their effectiveness.”