Highway 17 Construction Project Starts Monday

Update: Due to poor weather conditions on Sunday, the construction date for upgrades to Highway 17 between Summit and Bear Creek were delayed, and will take place Monday evening.

Caltrans has announced that it will begin upgrades to Highway 17, between Summit and Bear Creek roads tonight, Sunday, June 5.

The major scope of work, which will occur 9 p.m.-6 a.m., consists of constructing various drainage systems and resurfacing the existing pavement. The concrete barriers and metal beam guard rail will be reconstructed or replaced as appropriate, according to Caltrans spokesman Bernie Walik.

The $18 million project is supposed to improve safety along Highway 17 from Summit Road to one mile south of Bear Creek Road over-crossing near the Town of Los Gatos, Walik said.

Upgrading drainage systems, reconstructing median barriers, and resurfacing pavement will eliminate the formation of concentrated storm runoff areas during wet weather conditions, Walik said.

The announcement was also made on the Town of Los Gatos' Web site, which alerted motorists to anticipate delays and reduce vehicle speed in the construction area.

This project is ongoing and should be completed by December 2011.