In a momentous gathering on Wednesday, Caltrans and local officials came together at State Route 29 at Konocti Rock Company Road to commemorate the successful completion of the $85 million Konocti Corridor project. This marks the first phase of a comprehensive safety initiative aimed at widening an 8-mile stretch of Route 29. The project’s funding was provided by Caltrans, the Lake Area Planning Council (Lake APC), and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).

The Konocti Corridor project serves the communities of Lakeport, Kelseyville, Lower Lake, and Middletown, as well as facilitating auto and commercial truck traffic between U.S. 101 and Interstate 5. With the expected increase in traffic volume, expanding this highway section to four lanes with controlled access will boost capacity and significantly improve highway safety. The newly constructed expressway aligns with the long-range plan to divert traffic from the northern end of Clearlake, where concerns regarding pedestrian and nonmotorized traffic safety have persisted.

Lisa Davey-Bates, Executive Director of Lake APC, who has dedicated 23 years to the project, highlighted the importance of the partnerships that paved the way for its progress. She expressed her deepest gratitude to the Caltrans staff, acknowledging their dedication, time, energy, and financial support in bringing the Konocti Corridor project to fruition. Since 1988, a team of experts has been working together to enhance the safety and efficiency of the roadway network for motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians in Lake County.