There's a shoulder on most of hwy 99. Not sure how the construction is crossing I24. Possibly take main or a parallel, cross Broad at the light or on the greenway (entrance at Dodge Store), L on Bridge Ave, (possibly L on Battle Ave to Old Salem to Samsonite, then L on Hwy 99 then out to Kimbro (haven't ridden that lately) or Armstrong Valley. When in doubt, ride down the middle of the road so you don't get side swiped. Is this a commute or joy trip or??? Notify the planning comission that as a student you need more safe routes.
Another but slightly longer way is to go out Rutherford Blvd. to left (at stoplight) on HWY 41 and then a quick right on Elam Rd. Work your way out to County Farm, cross the railroad tracks by the Community Care Facility, stay on County Farm Rd. At stop sign at HWY 231 turn left and then right on Volunteer Dr. and it takes you into the Park with Wilderness Center on your left.
More details call me at 893-0721.