If traffic going through Willits is a problem, do whatever is necessary to have the traffic slow down.  Divert the funds to local bus transit, pedestrian walkaways, bicycle lanes. We have a bypass in my little town too, a two land built about 30 years ago. It was a bad idea then and is still a bad idea. Did nothing for the town and actually increased noise, pollution, irresponsible long distance commuting, and destroyed a lot of beautiful land, including wetlands.

While their at it, start to dismantle freeways in general throughout the country and replace them with long distance rail and dedicated buslanes for those lanes still standing.

Pass a citizen initiative that prevents all future freeway construction unless it is voted on and approved by a referendum by those so affected.  Provides that if  the referendum succeeds, 100% of the proposed funds must be allocated for other transporation and transportation related activities of the local community.