Traffic signals are being installed at Woodward Avenue and Atherton Drive as part of the first phase of the 120/99 connector project that is now underway.

It is in addition to traffic signals being placed for the new alignment of the Woodward Avenue and Moffat Boulevard so that the Woodward crossing of the railroad tracks is at a 90-degree angle.

Woodward Avenue will also have five lanes — including a left turn lane — crossing the track.

The crossing and intersection will be similar to what is already in place where Industrial Park Drive meets Moffat Boulevard.

It underscores why the first phase of the freeway work that adds a second connector lane from the eastbound 120 Bypass to southbound Highway 99 will also be a game changer for local traffic circulation in southeast Manteca.

The project will construct a connector road from Austin Road  to Atherton Drive south of Woodward Avenue.

The existing Austin Road overpass built in 1955 is being demolished to allow the adding of freeway lanes on Highway 99.

The replacement bridge will be four lanes with ramp turn lanes similar to what is in place on the Lathrop Road overcrossing on Highway 99.

The replacement bridge for Austin will also span the railroad tracks to eliminate the current at-grade crossing.

It will mean those driving north on Austin Road approaching the freeway will need to turn left on the new connector street being built, then right on Atherton, then right on Woodward, and then right on Moffat to reach the southbound Highway 99 onramp.

To contact Dennis Wyatt, email dwyatt@mantecabulletin.com