Caltrans this week will begin reconstructing a two-mile stretch of Highway 50 in South Lake Tahoe.

The $56 million project goes from the Y to the Trout Creek Bridge. It will include drainage systems to treat storm water runoff, widening the roadway to provide 6-foot shoulders for bike lanes in both directions, replacing traffic signals, rebuilding curb, gutter and sidewalks, and improving the pavement cross slope.

Caltrans also is working with South Lake Tahoe to incorporate signal and operational improvements at Sierra Boulevard.

Construction will start at the Y and head east. The project is expected to be completed in 2019. The first phase this year will be from the Y to Winnemucca Avenue. 

The contractor will be allowed to work around the clock Monday through Thursday and until 11am Friday before Memorial Day and after Labor Day, and until 8am Friday between Memorial Day and Labor Day. At least one lane will be open to traffic in each direction at all times. No lane closures will be permitted on weekends or around major holidays.

Motorists may experience delays of up to 30 minutes traveling through the construction zone.