Highway Projects

Route 85/87 Interchange Project

Field Activity Report

Overview

This project completes the existing interchange in San Jose by adding two connector ramps, from southbound Route 85 to northbound Route 87 and from southbound Route 87 to northbound Route 85. In addition, construction in the median of Route 87 between Route 85 and Branham Lane will widen the paved area to accommodate future HOV (carpool) lanes on Route 87.

Project Objective

To complete the Route 85/Route 87 interchange and to move freeway traffic off local streets.

Project Features

Both connecting ramps accommodate two lanes with full-width shoulders on both sides.

After the completion of the interchange, a follow-up highway planting project started along the project corridor. Currently underway, this project includes installing landscape planting and irrigation systems, erosion control work and ends with a three-year planting establishment period through July 2007.

Operations

Caltrans operates and maintains the new highway interchange.

Capital Cost/Project Funding

$43.1 million; $39.6 from 1996 Measure B funds and $3.5 from the Governor's Traffic Congestion Relief Program (TCRP) funds.

The Route 85/87 Interchange Project was completed $7 million under the baseline cost estimate.

Project Schedule:

Construction begins: August 2001
Connector ramps opened: June 2003

Highway Planting Project
Construction started: December 2003
Project completed: September 2004
Three year planting establishment through September 2007.

How to Reach Us:

For more information on the highway projects or existing bus and rail transit service, call VTA Community Outreach at (408) 321-7575, TDD only (408) 321-2330.