Lakeville Corridor Improvements: A Safer, More Accessible Future for All

Why Lakeville? 

Lakeville is a major corridor that runs through the heart of Petaluma, connecting neighborhoods, businesses, schools, and services. It also serves as a vital route for commuters, freight, and travelers coming to and through our city.

However, while it feels like a local road to many of us, a large portion of Lakeville is technically a state highway (Route 116). This means most of it falls under the jurisdiction ofthe California Department of Transportation (Caltrans). This presents a unique opportunity for us as we approach improvements. By collaborating with our community and Caltrans, we can design plans that balance local needs with regional transportation goals.  

Together, we are working to: 

• Increase safety for everyone using the corridor.
• Improve traffic flow for smoother, more predictable travel.
• Ensure accessibility for all modes of transportation—whether you're walking, biking, driving, or using mobility assistance (such as wheelchairs, scooters, etc.).

What’s Happening Now? 

Currently, there are three key efforts underway to enhance the Lakeville Corridor:

1. Lakeville Corridor Study (City of Petaluma in partnership with Sonoma County Transportation Authority)

The City is conducting a comprehensive Lakeville Corridor Study to gather data and understand current conditions along the route. This study, which focuses on Lakeville Street and Highway from Petaluma Blvd. to city limits (just south of Silace Road), will help us identify near, mid, and long-term improvements that will make the corridor safer and more accessible. 

We’ll be working closely with SCTA, Caltrans, and, most importantly, our Petaluma community. Your input will help shape solutions that reflect Petaluma’s values and vision for a more livable city. 

Community engagement opportunities coming soon. Stay tuned for ways to share your thoughts! 

CLICK HERE to learn more about the Lakeville Corridor Study.

2. Lakeville Highway (Route 116) Safety Improvements Between Frates Road and Stage Gulch Road (City of Petaluma in partnership with SCTA and Caltrans) 

Caltrans, in partnership with the City of Petaluma and SCTA, have long considered a safety project on Lakeville Highway between Frates Road and Stage Gulch Road, but State funding has been an issue. 

There is a history of unsafe driving practices related to the Lakeville corridor. As such, the City, County and CalTrans have had ongoing discussions to craft a comprehensive safety upgrade project to the roadway that will meet all needs, but such a solution is complex and multi-faceted.   After a collision in 2024, the team got together and identified interim improvements that could be done quickly to enhance safety while continuing to work on the full plan. The City installed said improvements, namely eliminating access points onto Lakeville at Pine View Way and the non-signalized South McDowell Blvd. Extension and directing all traffic to more well-controlled intersections at Cader Lane and South McDowell Blvd. 

The Frates/Stage Gulch project is still in the development phase and will involve permanent intersection improvements at Lakeville and Pine View Way. The project is intended to:  

• Enhance safety for all road users.
• Increase safety and efficiency at this busy junction.
• Reducing congestion and aid in smooth traffic flow. 

CLICK HERE to learn more about the Caltrans Frates/Stage Gulch project, including safety enhancements to the intersection of Lakeville Highway and Pine View Way.

3. Lakeville Highway (Route 116) and Stage Gulch Road Intersection (Caltrans)

In summer 2025, Caltrans is scheduled to begin construction of a roundabout at the intersection of Stage Gulch Road and Lakeville Highway (Route 116) south of Petaluma. The roundabout will replace an existing three-legged intersection where Stage Gulch Road and Lakeville Highway converge. These improvements will complement the broader goals of the Lakeville Corridor Study and help ensure safer and smoother regional traffic movement. Construction should be completed by spring 2027.  

CLICK HERE to learn more about this project.