UPDATED OCTOBER 2025: The California High-Speed Rail Authority announced on October 30, 2025, the completion of the Avenue 17 Grade Separation project in Madera County. Avenue 17 is the eighth structure to be opened to traffic this year, bringing the total number of structures completed to 57. Once a cul-de-sac ending at the BNSF railroad tracks, the grade separation will now serve as a new through roadway improving east-west mobility for the surrounding community while reducing emergency response times for the area.
Located between Lake Street and Raymond Road, the Avenue 17 grade separation spans 614 feet long and is more than 43 feet wide. The grade separation is also equipped with a pedestrian walkway, allowing vehicular traffic and pedestrians to cross over the BNSF and future high-speed rail tracks.
Construction for the Avenue 17 grade separation began in June 2023. The overcrossing is comprised of 21 pre-cast concrete girders, 8,190 cubic yards of concrete, and 1,846,374 pounds of steel. Contractor Tutor-Perini/Zachry/Parsons oversaw construction.









































