Notice of Construction and Traffic Changes for Milpas Street at U.S. Highway 101 Operational Improvements Project

PROJECT PURPOSE: The Milpas Street at U.S. Highway 101 Operational Improvements Project is critical to the success and safe operation of the U.S. Highway 101 Widening (HOV) Project. This Project will address expected traffic impacts from the HOV Project by reducing the risk of back up on southbound U.S. Highway 101.

TIMELINE: Mid-September to early 2026

• DURING CONSTRUCTION, EXPECT:
  • Lane closures: northbound Milpas between Hutash and Cacique.
  • Detours for pedestrians and cyclists.
  • Paving work at night will occur in early December.
• BENEFITS:
  • Reduced wait times at traffic signals for less traffic congestion.
  • New raised northbound bike lane​ to separate cyclists from vehicles.
  • New trees along Milpas.
• AFTER CONSTRUCTION, EXPECT:
  • No southbound left turns from Milpas to Cacique. To access the Eastside from southbound U.S. Highway 101, use the hook ramp (second Milpas Exit 96A).
  • No left turn from the hook ramp (second Milpas Exit 96A). To travel southbound on Milpas towards the Waterfront, use the first Milpas Exit, 96B.
  • Raised bike lane.
  • New dedicated southbound left turn lane from Milpas to Hutash.
  • Traffic signal phasing changes for reduced wait times.
  • Click here to view the Project Diagram.

LEARN MORE:

• Email MilpasHwy101@SantaBarbaraCA.gov
• Visit SantaBarbaraCA.gov/MilpasHwy