Avenue 430 over Buttonwillow Ditch Bridge Project

Avenue 430 over Buttonwillow Ditch Bridge Project

The proposed project would replace the existing two-lane bridge on Avenue 430 over Buttonwillow Ditch and widen Avenue 430 near the intersection to accommodate truck turning movement from Road 64 to westbound Avenue 430 and from eastbound Avenue 430 to southbound Road 64 to avoid off-tracking into the opposing lanes of both roadways. The existing bridge consists of a 19-foot long by 20-foot wide two-cell cast-in-place (CIP) concrete box culvert. It is unknown when the bridge was originally constructed since no as-built information for this crossing is available. The bridge lacks an adequate railing system and is a safety concern due to its narrow width. The proximity of the narrow bridge relative to the intersection of Road 64 and Avenue 430 has made turning movements difficult for larger farming equipment and vehicles. There have been several instances of vehicles partially or fully driving off the sides of the existing box culvert. A replacement structure would provide a wider structure, allowing traffic to safely negotiate turns at the intersection of Avenue 430 and Road 64. The proposed bridge will consist of an approximately 20-foot long by 85-foot wide, double box CIP concrete culvert, similar to the existing structure. Avenue 430 will be widened at the intersection to approximately 50 feet with two 12-foot lanes and gradually transition back to match the existing width of the roadway approximately 70 feet west of the ditch. Construction of the proposed improvements would require temporary construction easements and minor right-of-way acquisition from the property northwest of the bridge and potentially from the property southwest of the bridge. Utilities that may conflict with the proposed improvements include a power pole on the southeast corner of the bridge. A power pole located northwest of the bridge is also within the limits of the proposed roadway widening and may potentially need relocation. In addition, the existing irrigation infrastructure south of the bridge conflicts with the proposed roadway approach widening, therefore some facilities will be reconstructed upstream of the bridge in coordination with the irrigation district. Construction is anticipated to start in the fall of 2025 and will be completed in approximately 6 months. This project will provide a public benefit by improving safety and security of the public by improving transportation infrastructure for the general population in the region and vehicles, including large agricultural equipment, using these facilities.

unincorporated area, Dinuba

Tulare

Unincorporated

Tulare