Travel through the Badlands is about to become safer and more efficient with the opening of new Route 60 Truck Lanes by the Riverside County Transportation Commission. 

 

RCTC began construction of the $138 million highway investment in June 2019 with Caltrans providing design and construction oversight. The new lanes will open on time and within budget.

 

The project added an eastbound truck-climbing lane and a westbound truck-descending lane for 4.5 miles between Gilman Springs Road and 1.4 miles west of Jack Rabbit Trail, between Moreno Valley and Beaumont. Built next to the outer shoulders in both directions of Route 60, the truck lanes separate slower-moving big-rigs from passenger vehicles that can use the two left lanes in both directions.

 

The project also widened the inner and outer shoulders and excavated 2.1 million cubic yards of dirt from the steep hillsides to add another 30 feet next to the outer shoulders. The wider shoulders and open space provide safe pullout areas for motorists and emergency responders. Newly flattened roadway curves now improve sight distance for drivers, another safety benefit. 

 

Animals have a safer way to cross Route 60 as well, thanks to the construction of two 20-foot by 20-foot by 200-foot wildlife crossings and extension of culverts that allow coyotes, bobcats, mountain lions, deer, and other animals to travel beneath the highway to seek food and mates. The crossings also help prevent collisions between motorists and animals.

 

The project employed approximately 1,400 workers. Funding was provided by a combination of federal, state, and local sources.

 

Closeout work will continue during the weeks ahead with nighttime lane closures likely. Please continue to follow @60trucklanes on social media or visit the project website, for updates