Stage 1B (Design 2019–2025, Construction 2025–2028)

Stage 1B is on the east end of the project, at approximately MP 45–46.5, and includes the Quartz Creek intersection as well as the intersection of the existing and proposed Sterling Highway (approximately MP 47). Stage 1B includes realignment of the highway and connection to the old Sterling Highway. Construction will include excavation, rock blasting, a pedestrian undercrossing (Coyote Notch), retaining walls, drainage, guardrail, pavement, and signage and striping. Excess material will be transported to Stage 3. 

Crews have made significant progress throughout the project corridor and are continuing to move substantial quantities of earth and advance roadway construction between Sterling Highway MP 46 and MP 47. To date, approximately 700,000 cubic yards of rock excavation and gravel have been excavated from the east side of the corridor and placed in low-lying areas to the west of the rock cut zones as part of the ongoing roadway fill operation. Crews also installed cross culverts and slope stabilization.

For the month of October, the project has one scheduled road closure on October 7, 2026, for installation of a large drainage culvert at MP 46.

Crews anticipate a late October 2026 winter shutdown and are scheduled to return in mid-March 2027 to resume work for the 2027 construction season.

Last Updated: September 30, 2026