San Jose Creek Bridge Replacement Project

The Caltrans project to replace the San Jose Creek Bridge on US 101 in Goleta continues following the demolition of the northbound bridge. A traffic switch was completed in advance of this phase of construction Sept. 14. Travelers have been re-routed onto the southbound bridge which includes two travel lanes in each direction. No ramp closures are anticipated during this phase of construction. The northbound US 101 On-Ramp at Patterson Avenue has been modified to improve the merge for travelers entering the highway.

The bridges on US 101 were built in 1946/widened in 1989. The new bridge will meet current design and safety criteria. The contractor for this $20 million project is M.C.M. Construction, Inc. of North Highlands, CA. It is expected to be complete in June 2026.

Construction to replace the San Jose Creek Bridges on State Route 217 in Goleta continues with the installation of sheet piles in preparation for demolition of the northbound bridge expected to begin in mid-October following the transfer of equipment from the westbound side of the bridge to the east side. One lane remains open in each direction for travelers on the westbound side of the highway.

The eastbound SR 217 on-ramp at Sandspit Road will remain closed for the duration of the project, estimated at two years. Travelers leaving the Santa Barbara Airport will use Fairview Avenue and Hollister Avenue to reach US 101. Additional electronic message boards have been activated to assist airport visitors.

The existing four-lane bridge on SR 217 was constructed in 1963. The new bridge is designed to current standards and flood elevations.

The contractor for this $26 million project is M.C.M. Construction, Inc. of North Highlands, CA. Bridge construction is expected to be complete in Summer 2025. A follow up plant establishment project will be complete in Fall 2027. Additional updates will be issued as work progresses.


Photo of work zone following demolition of the northbound US 101 Bridge


Sheet Pile installation on State Route 217 at San Jose Creek