Caltrans, in collaboration with the California Highway Patrol, Cal-Fire and the US Forest Service, will reopen State Route 243 to all traffic today, Friday, Aug. 16, at noon.
No work will be conducted over the weekend to allow full access to residents and motorists.
Beginning on Monday, Aug. 19, traffic control will be in place with pilot car to allow the contractor to complete the work. The repairs will take place during daytime hours over the next estimated six to eight weeks. More detailed information on the work schedule will be released Monday.
Caltrans awarded a $1.2 million Emergency Director’s Order to Griffith Construction Company earlier this week as a result of the recent Silver Fire, which damaged portions of SR 243 between Interstate 10 near Banning and the Twin Pines community north of Idyllwild.
Griffith Company and the specialized sub-contractors worked expeditiously to repair the damaged guardrail so that the route could be opened safely to the motoring public.
Caltrans would like to extend a special thank you to the residents of the communities who were affected by the Silver Fire for their patience during the closure of SR 243. We would also like to thank the motoring public for their understanding and safe driving habits during the upcoming repair period.
