For anyone who uses SR-14 on a regular basis, we don’t
need to tell you that there’s a massive paving project underway on both sides
of the freeway. A project of this magnitude typically takes about two years to
complete, but we've fast-tracked it so that it will be completed in just 75
working days, which is great! The downside is that there's a LOT of work going
on at the same time over a long stretch of the freeway. Here are some tips for
motorists to get you through the construction zone more easily:
Avoid
traveling late at night. Most of the work is being done at
night, Monday through Friday. If you can avoid traveling SR-14 between 9 p.m.
and 6 a.m., you’ll miss the most extensive closures.
Slow
down! We’ve noticed a slight uptick in fender benders because
some motorists are driving too quickly in the construction zone. CHP is
patrolling every night — watch your speed or you may be ticketed.
Be
attentive to signage. When we close a ramp, we’ll post a warning
sign one ramp before the closed ramp so you can exit the freeway if you want.
If you’re not paying attention, you’ll miss it.
Look
for workers. On any given night, there’s up to 200
people working on the freeway. Help keep them (and you!) safe by slowing down and staying
out of their way.
Call 511. To avoid being late to wherever you're headed, check traffic conditions for SR-14 before you leave. Call 511 for real-time traffic speeds (it’s free!) or check out the traffic
map on go511.com
The project is on schedule to wrap up in August. For more information about this or other Caltrans projects, check out the
Caltrans website.
