NEVADA COUNTY

Caltrans is alerting motorists about the need for intermittent closures of eastbound state Route 20 (SR 20) for construction of the new bridge at the junction of Interstate 80. The work is part of the $112 million Yuba Pass Separation Overhead Bridge Project.

Eastbound SR 20 closures will take place intermittently during the summer and fall months. Exact dates and times are still to be determined.

The closures are needed for public safety during a variety of construction activities, including falsework installation and removal, crane mobilization and demobilization, and concrete pours. Crews will perform flagging operations along SR 20 at the I-80 junction, whenever possible, in an effort to keep the highway open.

Motorists can expect delays and are encouraged to factor in additional travel time for the suggested detours. The schedule is subject to change or be delayed.

When closed, eastbound traffic will be turned around at the Omega Scenic Overlook with access restricted unless needed for local residents and emergency vehicles. The hard closure will be located at the I-80 junction. Westbound SR 20 will remain open for travel between Truckee and the Nevada City/Grass Valley area.

Detour:

• Southbound state Route 49 (SR 49) to connect with I-80 in Auburn.
• Passenger vehicles may also detour southbound on state Route 174 to connect with I-80 in Colfax. 
• Large trucks are directed to use SR 49 only. 

Additionally, the eastbound I-80 off-ramp to westbound SR 20 will be closed. Motorists will detour along eastbound I-80 to Eagle Lakes Road, then head back westbound on I-80 and take the off-ramp to westbound SR 20. Work is expected to be completed by winter 2027.

~ Caltrans District 3 press release