Southbound traffic on Highway 89 can back up from the entrance of Squaw Valley to Interstate 80 during a big ski weekend.

On Saturday, Placer County will continue a pilot project to extend the turn lane into the resort, aimed at relieving this congestion.

Placer began a limited trial of the turn lane extension Feb. 17, and will launch it in full Feb. 24 and March 3.

The existing turn lane into Squaw Valley is only about 250 feet, which accommodates about 12 cars. Cars eventually spill into the highway, holding up through traffic. The pilot project will extend the turn lane along the road shoulder by 2,000 feet, separating another 100 cars from southbound through traffic.

Electronic signs will be placed along the highway.