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 FRESNO, CALIF. — Caltrans announced that it awarded its first design-build project — the State Highway 99 Chowchilla Rehabilitation Project — to Granite Construction Company. Design-build is currently being used in 32 other states. Caltrans obtained design-build authority in February 2009 with the passage of Senate Bill 4 (second extraordinary session). The legislation established a demonstration program, which allows 10 design-build projects for Caltrans and five for local transportation agencies, subject to authorization by the California Transportation Commission.

“Caltrans is taking advantage of innovative solutions like design-build to be more efficient and get the most out of taxpayer’s investments in our transportation system,” said Acting Caltrans Director Malcolm Dougherty.

The project will repair nearly four miles of Highway 99 in both directions in Chowchilla from the South Madera Overcrossing to the Avenue 16 Overcrossing. Existing guardrail, lights, signs, and drainage systems within the project limits will also be upgraded or repaired, as needed.

"Highway 99 is the transportation backbone of the Central Valley and one of the primary corridors through Madera County," said Caltrans District 6 Interim Director Sharri Bender-Ehlert. "This project will save tax dollars by decreasing maintenance expenses and ensuring goods and services are delivered safely and efficiently.”

Construction on the $37 million project is planned to begin in mid-July 2011 and is estimated for completion by December 2012.