Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of this project?
The project’s main purpose is to provide traffic improvements on northbound U.S. 395 from Moana Lane to I-80. The project will improve travel time by reducing congestion resulting in a safer stretch of freeway while minimizing adverse social, economic and environmental impacts.
How was this project selected?
The project was identified as a major priority for improvement in the Washoe County Freeway Corridor Study of 2003 and the 2030 Regional Transportation Plan. U.S. 395 northbound was selected for improvements because of the minimal right-of-way and environmental impacts, and ability to improve safety.
Various stretches of freeway along the urban corridor were researched and analyzed. It was determined this project would deliver the greatest transportation benefit to the most congested segment of state roadway in northern Nevada within available funding, providing the most bang for the buck!
Where is the project area?
The project area includes 3.2 miles along northbound U.S. 395 from Moana Lane to I-80.
How will this project benefit me?
Drivers will experience improved commute times on northbound U.S. 395 from Moana Lane to I-80. Access to I-80 eastbound and westbound will be improved because ramps will be separated by approximately 1,000 feet. This will create two separate ramp locations: one for I-80 eastbound and one for I-80 westbound. Currently, drivers access I-80 eastbound and westbound at the same ramp location.
What improvements will be made?
- Widening of northbound U.S. 395 from just north of the Moana Lane on-ramp to Plumb Lane to incorporate an auxiliary lane. This improvement will result in improved traffic flow for vehicles entering and exiting the freeway.
- Re-striping of U.S. 395 northbound from Plumb Lane off-ramp to Villanova Drive to add an auxiliary lane for a total of four freeway lanes.
- Widening U.S. 395 northbound to five lanes north of Villanova Drive and adding a sixth lane at the junction of the Villanova Drive on-ramp.
- Widening U.S. 395 northbound to six lanes from the Villanova Drive on-ramp to I-80 to improve traffic flow.
- Creating two separate, dedicated lanes for both I-80 eastbound and westbound and upgrading the existing exits. This improvement will create greater distance between the two I-80 exits, resulting in reduced sporadic and unsafe lane changes. Drivers continuing northbound on U.S. 395 will experience improved traffic flow and separation from exiting motorists.
- Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) improvements including updated traffic signs and a Dynamic Message Sign (DMS) providing drivers with clear instructions for navigating and exiting the freeway up to I-80, as well as alerting drivers to road conditions as they approach the Spaghetti Bowl.
- Aesthetic Improvements: to be announced
What is the project timeline?
The project is on a fast-track design and construction schedule, with projected final design complete in 2009. The project is scheduled to advertise in 2009, with construction also projected to begin in 2009. Construction is anticipated to be completed in 2012.
What is the approximate construction cost of the improvements?
$70 million.
Is residential property needed?
Not at this time. At this time, the design does not include purchasing any residential property.
When will construction be performed?
Construction activity will occur at all times of day and night to expedite the project. NDOT specifications also limit construction work during special events. Nighttime work will be required whenever the work on the freeway or cross street will cause significant disruption to the flow of traffic.
How can I obtain more information or make a comment about the project?
We encourage all project comments through e-mail, a comment form or in writing to the address below.
Scott Magruder, Public Information Officer
Nevada Department of Transportation
1263 S. Stewart Street
Carson City, NV 89712
Email: Click here
For general information, or to leave a message by phone, please call (775) 888-7000 or see our contact Web site page.
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