Lithium Valley Connectivity Project
Lithium Valley Connectivity Project
Caltrans District 11 is preparing the Lithium Valley Connectivity Project to evaluate current and future multimodal transportation conditions along State Routes 111, 115, 86, and 78 in Imperial County. This effort focuses on understanding corridor performance, travel needs, and emerging demands associated with regional growth in the Lithium Valley area.
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Your input will help guide potential improvements along State Routes 111, 115, 86, and 78.
Lithium Valley Connectivity Project: PID Phase
Caltrans is preparing a Project Initiation Document (PID) to support growth associated with Phase 1 of the Lithium Valley Specific Plan by improving transportation access to the geothermal and lithium...
Project Overview:
The Lithium Valley Connectivity Project is focused on transportation along SR-111, SR-115, SR-86, and SR-78 in Imperial County in response to the rapid growth of the Lithium Valley Extraction Complex and related clean-energy industries near the Salton Sea.
Lithium Valley represents one of California’s most significant emerging economic and energy initiatives. Large-scale lithium extraction, geothermal energy production, and downstream manufacturing are expected to generate substantial freight movement, workforce travel, and supporting trips. These activities will place growing demands on the surrounding highways—especially SR-111, SR-115, SR-86, and SR-78—which serve as the primary connectors between communities, employment centers, border crossings, and industrial sites.
Caltrans is evaluating current and future conditions, identifying challenges, and exploring ways to keep the highway system safe, reliable, and resilient as the region develops. The project emphasizes early coordination with local agencies, regional partners, industry, and the public to understand transportation needs and priorities. Planning now will help guide future improvements that support economic growth while maintaining safety, mobility, and community connections.
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