Work begins today on Highway 50 interchange near 395

Construction starts today on a $6.7 million interchange on Highway 50, 4.8 miles west of the intersection of Highway 395 and Highway 50 in South Carson. The project includes a bridge and access roads so drivers can access Clear Creek Road from Highway 50 without crossing traffic, said Department of Transportation spokesman Scott Magruder.

The state is providing about $1 million for the project and private developer Syncon Homes is funding the balance, Magruder said.

"It should be open by the summer of 2007," he said. "It's a great example of a private/public partnership. The public benefits because a full interchange will make the road safer, but there are also benefits for the developer. It's a win-win."

The contract was awarded to Road and Highway Builders of Reno. Drivers can expect some minimal delays during the 225-day construction contract. Traffic on the four-lane highway will be funneled to one lane in each direction for most of the summer, Magruder said.

Located near a break in the barrier where cars turn around or stop, the area now provides access to a private road for Clear Creek residents. State officials were concerned about the road's location next to a runaway-truck ramp and planned to spend $800,000 to move the ramp. Construction of the interchange will eliminate the road and moves traffic away from the ramp.

The interchange is also required for Clear Creek Ranch, a proposed 366-home development by Syncon that also includes 18 time-share homes and a golf course.

The fate of the Clear Creek development in north Douglas County is in limbo. The project, which has been steeped in controversy and lawsuits since its first approval by the Douglas County Board of Commissioners in 2003, is now being considered now by the Nevada Supreme Court.

• Contact reporter Susie Vasquez at svasquez@recordcourier.com or 782-5121, ext. 211.