LATHROP — The upcoming construction of the Lathrop Road/Union Pacific Railroad Westerly Grade Separation is being discussed during a public meeting on Wednesday, Sept. 11, from 7 to 8:30 p.m.

A brief presentation will be made at 7:30 p.m. The meeting will be held at the Lathrop Senior Center, 15557 Fifth St.

City of Lathrop representatives and the construction manager will describe the project design and how the grade separation will look when complete. Members of the public will also receive information on what to expect during construction, and several exhibits will be available to further describe the project.

The bridge, referred to as a grade separation, is being built over the Union Pacific Railroad crossing on Lathrop Road to provide a reliable, regional corridor connecting Interstate 5 to Highway 99. When the project is complete, emergency vehicles will have a guaranteed path to respond without the risk of being blocked by a train. Public safety will be improved for all modes of transportation, as well as for pedestrians, to nearby commercial centers and parks.

 The project, which began with design in 1996, has gone through the feasibility study and environmental document stages and received state funding. Construction documents have been prepared; a construction manager and contractor have been selected; and construction is set to begin this month.

 The project is fully funded by state and local funds, including Measure K, as well as funds from Union Pacific Railroad.

 For more information, members of the public are welcome to call the Hotline at (209) 464-4350, Ext. 101, or email Hotline@buethecommunications.com. Written comments and inquiries about the project may be sent to Public Outreach Coordinator, Lathrop Road/UPRR Westerly Grade Separation, P.O. Box 773, Stockton, CA 95201-0773.