Published on April 13, 2026
In collaboration with the San Mateo County Transportation Authority (SMCTA), the City has issued the construction documents for the Willow Road/U.S. 101 Interchange Landscaping project for bidding. The landscaping needs were identified as a separate follow-up project following the conversion of the interchange from the “full cloverleaf” to a “partial cloverleaf” style. This is similar to the Marsh Road and Highway U.S. 101 interchange, which eliminated the short weaves on Willow Road and the freeway and also widened the bridge, added sidewalks and bicycle lanes. The landscaping project will add about 120 more trees than existed before the interchange reconstruction on property owned by Caltrans and groundcover and mulch will be used to help reduce weeds and reduce maintenance costs. The landscaping will be maintained by Caltrans with no additional cost to the City. The design reflects Caltrans and other stakeholder reviews. The City led the design and the SMCTA will fund and manage the construction. The SMCTA has set aside $3.5 million for construction. Once construction bids are received, the City will award the project later this spring. Construction is planned for the summer and will take approximately one year, followed by a three year plant establishment period. Visit menlopark.gov/willow101 for more information.