West Campus Roads to Close April 30-May 2 for Pavement Research
Putah Creek Riparian Reserve Trailhead Parking Temporarily Impacted
The University of California Pavement Research Center, or UCPRC, in collaboration with CalRecycle, is testing innovative pavement materials made from end-of-life tires to enhance the sustainability and performance of California’s roads. To support this work, a few roads near the UC Davis Airport will be closed morning to evening to vehicle, bicycle, and pedestrian traffic from April 30 to May 2 (details below).
The closures include Hopkins Road (south of the airport), Levee Road, and Brooks Road leading up to the Putah Creek Reserve. Road closures will begin on April 30 at 6 a.m. and continue to 6 p.m. Closures will resume on May 1 at 6 a.m. and continue overnight until work is complete at 6 p.m. on May 2. This work includes a closure of the Putah Creek Riparian Reserve trailhead parking area on Levee Road between Hopkins Road and Brooks Road.
Employees who need to access their workplace along the closure will be given controlled access. All other traffic will be directed to detour routes via Hutchison Drive. Community members are encouraged to plan alternate routes during the closure. The temporary closure is necessary to ensure the safety of construction crews and the integrity of the testing process.
Why This Matters
This project showcases the latest advancements in pavement innovation, including the use of asphalt mixes containing recycled tires. By testing these materials, UCPRC aims to develop longer-lasting, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly road surfaces. Key highlights of the project:
- Cold Recycling Technology: Repurposes existing road materials, reducing waste and greenhouse gas emissions.
- Recycled Tire Asphalt Mixes: Incorporates waste tires to enhance durability and sustainability.
- Life-Cycle Assessment Tools: Evaluates environmental impacts of pavement designs.
Campus Collaboration
This project is made possible by a unique partnership with UC Davis Design and Construction Management’s Campus Planning unit. By utilizing the campus as a living laboratory, UC Davis is enabling real-world research that advances sustainability and innovation in infrastructure development.
“Our collaboration with the Pavement Research Center exemplifies how the university infrastructure can benefit while serving as a resource for innovative research,” said Lucas Griffith, campus planning executive director. “These efforts align with UC Davis’s commitment to sustainability and provide valuable insights that benefit the campus and the entire state.”
About the UC Pavement Research Center
The UCPRC is a leader in advancing pavement innovation, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness. Through partnerships with Caltrans, CalRecycle, and industry leaders, the center develops and implements cutting-edge materials and processes for roadway construction and maintenance.