California Department of Transportation’s State Route 36 at County Road A13 Safety Project transformed a high-risk rural intersection into a modern roundabout that delivers safer, more reliable travel for residents, visitors, and commercial drivers. Once characterized by driver confusion, lengthy delays, and a history of serious crashes, the intersection now provides smoother traffic flow and more predictable travel for families, workers, and tourists traveling throughout Plumas County.

The $11.9 million project addressed the root causes of severe crashes by replacing the traditional intersection with a roundabout that reduces conflict points, slows vehicle speeds, and significantly lowers the risk of right-angle and head-on collisions. In a rural region where emergency response times can be critical, the forgiving design enhances safety while improving overall traffic operations.

The project also delivers important economic benefits. Freight operators, logging crews, and tourists traveling to the region’s lakes, forests, and mountain recreation areas now experience fewer delays and more reliable travel times. Local businesses benefit from improved access as goods and visitors move more efficiently through the corridor.

By reducing crash-related costs, supporting freight movement, and improving access to key destinations, the project strengthens the regional economy while enhancing quality of life for residents. The result is a safer, more predictable transportation network that improves mobility and supports long-term economic resilience in this rural community.