Marysville, CA – Yesterday afternoon, Congressman John Garamendi (D-CA-03), spoke at a ceremony announcing the completion of “Marysville Forward” – the reconstruction of State Highways 20 and 70 and the largest roadwork project in the city’s 163-year history.

Congressman Garamendi, a Member of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, said, “‘Marysville Forward’ is a historic investment in our community’s future. By refurbishing downtown with new roads, sidewalks, trees, crosswalks, and more, the project will attract customers to local businesses and lay the foundation for economic growth. Drivers traveling along Highways 20 and 70 will experience a smoother and safer ride. This project also put more than 200 people and a dozen companies to work in our area, providing a boost to the local economy. Thank you to everyone who helped make this day a reality.”

This project was funded from the State Highway Operation and Protection Program (SHOPP), with federal reimbursement from the Federal Highway Administration. Of the project’s $46.5 million cost, the state government paid $7.5 million and the federal government paid $39 million.

Before this project was implemented, the existing asphalt pavement was deteriorated, the surface had poor ride quality, drainage and infrastructure was aged, and signals at times operated inefficiently due to congested traffic and failing loop detectors (an electronic communication system that detects vehicles at a certain point, such as approaching a traffic light). Overall, the pavement was rutting and badly deteriorated by heavy truck movements. In addition, some the of the curbs, gutters, sidewalks, and driveways were broken and not built to current Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance, impacting pedestrian accessibility and detracting from the main street historical downtown area experience.

The purpose of this project is to extend the life of the pavement (40 + years), significantly reduce recurring maintenance costs, improve pedestrian accessibility, and enhance the main street context through Marysville.

In order to achieve a long pavement life, eliminate recurring maintenance, and reduce public inconvenience, the use of Continuously Reinforced Concrete Pavement (CRCP) was chosen as an “innovative” approach unique to this area. The concrete and project provide the following benefits: