Caltrans To Begin Fixing Contentious HWY 4 Median

Murphys, CA – Caltrans will begin fixing a contentious concrete median on Highway 4 in Murphys that had residents complaining about no access to businesses along the roadway.

Currently, the only way to get to a business is by taking side streets. As we reported in September, the raised median on the highway near Tom Bell Road/Big Trees Road brought criticism as soon as it was completed. Caltrans had built it to improve highway safety after a history of “significant crashes” and a fatal one during the study.

As crews are set to begin the new construction on Monday, October 6, 2025, Caltrans noted that, following feedback from the community regarding local business access, modifications are being made. Left-turn pockets into both Sierra Hills Market to the north of the highway and the Shell gas station to the south.

“We’re committed to safety as a top priority here at Caltrans,” said Grace Magsayo, Caltrans District 10 Director. “The department believes these changes will offer greater mobility and reduce the potential for collisions along this stretch of highway.”

There will be nighttime closures, beginning Sunday, October 5, 2025, through Friday, October 10, 2025, from 7 p.m. until 6 a.m., with the work expected to last ten days. Caltrans asks motorists to slow down and follow site personnel and signage in the cone zone.