Parkway bids expected in Yuba City

Bids for the Western Parkway project in Yuba City are expected to be opened in January after City Council approval of plans for the $2 million project to ease traffic congestion at the George Washington Boulevard intersection.

"It's going to be a great help," Councilman Tej Maan said this week. "This will make it easier for people to get on and off Highway 20."

The work approved at Tuesday's council meeting includes extending Western Parkway from Libby Lane to Highway 20. Development in northwestern Yuba City between Township and Royo Ranchero roads initiated the project, according to a staff report to the council.

Council members in June 2011 approved the environmental review for the project after taking out a traffic barrier on Royo Ranchero Road.

Residents near the project, as well as representatives of Twin Cities Church, had raised concerns about the proposed barrier.

George Musallam, public works director for Yuba City, said Western Parkway will help relieve traffic congestion.

"It is a big step," he said.

CONTACT Ryan McCarthy at rmccarthy@appealdemocrat.com or 749-4780. Find him on Facebook at /ADrmccarthy or on Twitter at @ADrmccarthy.