SR 163 and Friars Road Interchange Improvements

Close

The State Route 163 and Friars Road Interchange project modifies the interchange to improve traffic operations, provide improved access for bicyclists and pedestrians, and minimize weaving on south-bound SR 163 between Friars Road and I-8. The Friars Road interchange was completed in 1970, when SR 163 was widened from four to eight lanes. The interchange was built to accommodate the increase in traffic that came with a growing area, but its capacity was soon exceeded from extensive residential and commercial growth. During peak travel times, vehicles slow significantly due to excessive traffic demand and weaving conditions on southbound SR 163 at Friars Road and at I-8. Phase 1 includes widening the SR 163-Friars Road overpass from three to four lanes in each direction and making improvements to the SR 163 on- and off-ramps. A southbound SR 163 auxiliary lane and improvements for bicyclists and pedestrians (bike lanes and sidewalks on both sides of Friars Road) are also included in this phase. Phases 2 and 3 are also planned contingent on future funding. Phase 2 includes construction of a new collector ramp from southbound S 163 to westbound I-8 and a new flyover entrance ramp from Ulric Street to southbound SR 163 to reduce weaving. Phase 3 will include two southbound SR 163 auxiliary lanes from Genesee Avenue to Friars Road and a northbound SR 163 auxiliary lane for motorists entering the freeway from Friars Road.

High