Navigating South Lake Tahoe during road construction

As construction continues on Highway 50 from Winnemucca Avenue to the Y in South Lake Tahoe, drivers need to be aware of some recommended alternative routes since left-hand turns from the road are not available.

A lack of left-hand turns has drivers confused as to where to go. Some people are still making left-hand turns where prohibited, thus jamming up traffic and making navigation dangerous.

From now until mid-October, access to 3rd Street and 4th Street toward Barton Memorial Hospital from Highway 50 eastbound is permitted (right turn). Access to 3rd Street and 4th Street toward the hospital from Highway 50 westbound (left turn) will not be permitted.

Two alternate routes to the hospital are recommended:

Vehicles heading westbound on Highway 50 can make a left turn at Winnemucca Avenue. Vehicles can then make a right turn on Barton Avenue to 3rd Street or 4th Street. Taking a left on 3rd Street or 4th Street will lead you to the hospital.
Vehicles can continue on Highway 50 westbound to Highway 89 South and make a left on B Street. Staying left on B Street will turn into South Avenue leading to the hospital.

Emergency vehicles with sirens in use will be permitted to turn left onto 3rd Street with the assistance of flaggers to ensure safety traveling through the work zone.

Caltrans thanks hospital staff for their flexibility as they work with community partners to improve the infrastructure of South Lake Tahoe.

Another lack of left turn lane that visitors need to be aware of is at Tahoe Keys Blvd. Eastbound traffic may not turn onto the main artery to the Tahoe Keys, and those with boats will not be able to cut through businesses as many local vehicles have done to get onto the road.

When approaching the Y on Highway 50, do not turn right at the light, instead go straight to 15th Street and turn right. This road ends at Venice Blvd, the road the marina is located. The "state streets" can be accessed via this route, or by turning right onto 12th Street.

Follow signs, go with the lane shifts when directed, stay in your lane and be aware are all easy ways to have a successful trip through the construction zone.

Visit www.TahoeRoads.com for more information about Tahoe Roads projects and how the projects are protecting water quality. This website also has business information and links to road conditions.