Support the Last Chance Grade Restoration Project

Del Norte County has waited decades for a permanent solution to the ongoing challenges at Last Chance Grade on US 101. Now, there is an opportunity to secure federal funding that could finally move this critical project forward — but strong community support is essential.

Caltrans District 1 has applied for a 2026 USDOT BUILD Grant to fund the Last Chance Grade Restoration Project, which would construct a 6,000-foot tunnel and provide a long-term, stable solution to the deteriorating roadway conditions that have repeatedly threatened access to and from our region.

US 101 is more than just a highway. It is our lifeline.

It serves as the primary corridor for:

• Local residents commuting to work
• Emergency services
• School transportation
• Tribal communities
• Tourism and local businesses
• Regional trade and economic activity

When the roadway fails or is restricted, Del Norte County is effectively cut off.

This project is about safety, mobility, economic stability, and ensuring reliable access for rural and tribal communities who depend on this corridor every day.

How You Can Help

Community members, businesses, organizations, and tribal partners are encouraged to submit letters of support to the U.S. Department of Transportation urging approval of the BUILD Grant for the Last Chance Grade Restoration Project.

Below is a sample letter you may use and customize:

The Honorable Sean Duffy
Secretary
United States Department of Transportation
1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE
Washington, DC 20590

RE: Support for USDOT BUILD 2026: Last Chance Grade Restoration – Del Norte County, CA

The Honorable Sean Duffy
Secretary
United States Department of Transportation
1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE
Washington, DC 20590

RE: Support for USDOT BUILD 2026: Last Chance Grade Restoration – Del Norte County, CA

Dear Secretary Duffy:

[Insert your organization or personal name] is writing in strong support of Caltrans District 1’s application to the United States Department of Transportation Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) discretionary grant program for Fiscal Year 2026 for the Last Chance Grade Restoration Project.

The Project is located in rural Del Norte County in Northern California on US 101, which functions as the primary arterial for all modes of transportation in the region. The Project will address deteriorating roadway conditions by constructing a 6,000-foot-long tunnel, providing an enduring solution to an ongoing problem.

This project is foundational to economic stability, public safety, and reliable access for rural and tribal communities who depend on US 101 as the region’s main trade corridor. Funding this Project will ensure continued access, mobility, and opportunity for the residents of Del Norte County.

[Optional: Add a personal story or explanation of how roadway closures or instability have impacted you, your business, or your community.]

We strongly support this application and respectfully urge USDOT to fund the Last Chance Grade Restoration Project through the BUILD Grant program.

Sincerely,
[Name]
[Title/Organization if applicable]