The California Transportation Department (Caltrans) has initiated a $420m interstate road renovation project between Colfax and the Nevada State line, to be completed by November 2009.

Eight projects totalling more than $420m will commence in 2009 to Interstate (I-80), creating an economic artery for the California area.

The I-80 Sierra project will replace and remove worn roadway and repair ramps. It will also widen shoulders and replace metal guardrails, along with revitalising 44 lane-miles of severely distressed pavement.

Running 2,900 miles from New Jersey to California, I-80 connects principal metropolitan areas, cities and industrial centres.

Because of the area’s severe weather conditions, the roadways have become severely worn and are in need of repair.