Orland I-5 project gives travelers something to buzz about

Those passing through the community of Orland will have something to buzz about with the completion of the town’s Interchange Beautification Project, which emphasizes the city’s unique identity as the “Queen Bee Capital of North America.”

Caltrans, in partnership with the City of Orland, celebrated the completion of the $2.1 million project on June 18.

The project enhances the Interstate 5/State Route 32 interchange with distinctive artwork and innovative honeycomb paving that transforms the interchange into a vibrant gateway into Orland and includes two unique 13-foot, 2,000-pound bees greeting motorists on the I-5 northbound and southbound ramps. Reflecting Orland's unique personality, the public art project is designed to foster community pride and beautify the roadside, said CalTrans authorities.

Made possible through the Clean California initiative, the improvements are part of a sweeping, $1.2 billion, multiyear clean-up effort led by CalTrans to remove trash, create thousands of jobs, and join with communities throughout the state to reclaim, transform, and beautify public spaces and help keep them that way.

“Clean California is working successfully to transform our public spaces, beautify our state, and improve the safety of our transportation network,” said Caltrans Director Tony Tavares. “We are delighted to work with the City of Orland and its neighborhood to create these beautiful landmarks and continue the city’s tradition of incorporating public art.”

Additionally, slope paving and enhanced beautification details at the overpass serve as a safety measure by reducing maintenance exposure for CalTrans staff. The project features artwork created by local artist Jake Midgley, born and raised in Orland, adding a deeply personal and authentic touch to the beautification efforts.

“The Orland community is so proud to have the state's first Clean California artwork celebrating the vital role of bees in our regional agricultural industry and in one-third of every bite we take. Our local artist, with advice from Orland apiary and arts professionals, did an amazing job," said Orland City Manager Pete Carr.

According to CalTrans District 3 Acting Director Sergio Aceves, the Orland Interchange Beautification Project is a shining example of how community collaboration and innovative design can create a welcoming and vibrant gateway for residents and visitors alike.

“We are proud to support the City of Orland in celebrating its unique identity and enhancing the safety and beauty of this vital interchange,” he added.

CalTrans District 3 maintains more than 4,385 lanes miles of state highway in 11 Sacramento Valley and Northern Sierra counties.

More information and updates on local projects can be found at dot.ca.gov/caltrans-near-me/ or on Twitter via @CaltransDist3 and on Facebook at CaltransDistrict3.