Frequently Asked Questions about the Upgrades to the Horseshoe Bar Road and I‐80 Interchange
Overview
The Town of Loomis’ 2022 traffic safety study identified the east bound ramp (towards Auburn) intersection of Horseshoe Bar Road and Interstate 80 as one of Loomis’s top accident locations due to the lack of proper traffic controls in the intersection. Also, traffic getting off on east bound tends to back-up on I-80 causing a safety issue. The westbound ramp (towards Sacramento) intersection performs better for vehicles, but it still presents issues to allow for other means of travel including pedestrians.
Caltrans made improvements to the overcrossing in 2016, including new barriers, epoxy concrete overlay, sidewalk improvements, fencing, and Loomis sign on the overcrossing. Despite these upgrades, the traffic width remains constrained at 30 feet, necessitating innovative solutions to accommodate traffic.
The Town is developing a Project Study Report to determine the design alternatives, costs, schedules, right-of-way needs, and additional documentation needed for future phases.
How much of Horseshoe Bar Road does the project include?
The Horseshoe Bar Road and I-80 Interchange Project extends from the intersection of Horseshoe Bar Road and Doc Barnes Drive to the intersection of Horseshoe Bar Road and Evans Drive.
Why are improvements to the Horseshoe Bar Road and I-80 Interchange so important?
The project will enhance safety for motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians, and it will reduce the number of collisions that occur along Horseshoe Bar Road due to the lack of intersection controls and left-turn lanes. This intersection currently has the highest collision rate in the Town, highlighting the critical need for improvements.
Where will the funding for this Project Study Report come from?
At this time, the Town of Loomis has $425,000 from local development impact fees identified to complete a project study report which will provide the data needed to design the project and address all of the needs.
How much will the project cost?
Until the project design is complete and the option selected approved, the Town will not have actual costs. However, preliminary project cost estimates will be developed for the alternatives identified in the project study report.
Where will the money come from for the project?
The Town expects funding for future project phases to come from multiple sources. The Town does not expect to begin construction until late 2027 or early 2028, and it will be researching and arranging for funding during those years. The Town has applied for an appropriation from Congress in the amount of $5 million through Congressman Kiley’s office.
When will the study be completed and construction start?
The Town has established a preliminary schedule for the project.
Begin Public Engagement and Workshops – Summer 2025
Submit Planning Initiation Documents to Caltrans Approval – Winter 2025
Planning Initiation Documents Approved by Caltrans – Spring 2026
Re-engage with Community to Review Approved Project – Fall 2026
Will the public have a chance to participate in the study and planning for the project?
The Town will hold an initial public meeting on July 24, 2025 from 5:30 to 7:30 pm at the Train Depot, 5775 Horseshoe Bar Road, to introduce conceptual alternatives. A series of workshops will follow to receive additional resident, business and stakeholder feedback. The information from these workshops will feed into the next phase of the project plan development.
Will the public only be able to comment during the meetings?
No. The Town of Loomis encourages the public to submit comments during the public meeting, workshops and in writing via email or letter throughout the initial plan development process. Please submit comments to: townengineer@loomis.ca.gov or mail to: Loomis Town Hall, 3665 Taylor Road, Loomis CA 95650
Where can more information on the project plan be found?
As the project planning progresses, information will be provided on the Town of Loomis website.
What contractor will be doing the construction?
No contractors have been identified at this time. Once the planning is completed, the environmental review finished, final project approved, and funding secured, the Town will initiate an open bidding process.