PLACER/NEVADA COUNTIES – Caltrans is reminding motorists of various lane and ramp closures in multiple locations along Interstate 80 (I-80) as several construction projects are underway in Placer and Nevada counties. 

2026 Construction Season Underway Along I-80 in Sierra Nevada

Motorists will experience delays with each project. If traveling across the entire corridor, the cumulative delay may reach up to 2 hours depending on traffic volumes. Caltrans encourages motorists to factor in additional travel times along the I-80 Sierra corridor and check QuickMap for real-time roadway information.

Projects resuming for the 2026 season:

Monte Vista Pavement Rehabilitation Project

Yuba Pass Separation Overhead Bridge Project

Soda Springs Pavement Rehabilitation Project

Drum Forebay Drainage Restoration Project

New projects for the 2026 season:

Alta Pavement Improvement Project

Blue Canyon Pavement Rehabilitation Project

Additional work includes construction on a bridge deck preservation project at 14 various locations along Interstate 80 in Placer County and State Route 20 in Nevada County. Work includes a polyester concrete overlay, joint seal replacement and earthquake restrainer cable replacements. The project is expected to be completed by the end of the year.

Slope stabilization work is also underway along westbound I-80 between the Nevada/Sierra County line and Boca. This project is expected to be completed by this fall.

The extended lane closures will help to minimize the duration of the work and improve workers’ safety. The schedule is subject to change or be delayed due to weather, availability of materials or other unexpected events.

Caltrans District 3 is responsible for maintaining and operating 4,385 lane miles in 11 Sacramento Valley and Northern Sierra counties. Caltrans reminds motorists to “Be Work Zone Alert” and slow in construction zones for the safety of travelers and crews performing these improvements.