Another ‘Big Load’ Comes Through Palm Springs Roadways

The third and final gigantic lid for a nuclear reactor is scheduled to make its way through the Coachella Valley overnight tonight.

The 150-ton lid bound for the Palo Verde nuclear plant near Phoenix began its 10-day trek from the Port of Long Beach last Tuesday, said Bigge spokesman Roger Simpson.

The load, which is being escorted by the California Highway Patrol, is expected to makes its way through the Coachella Valley by around 10 p.m. Wednesday, Simpson said.

Because of a sign that will interfere with the transport, the vehicle, which can only go about 5 mph, will cross over from eastbound to westbound lanes and exit the interstate on the Highway 111 on-ramp.

Both Interstate 10 and Highway 111 are expected to be shut down during the maneuver.

The load will then make its way through Palm Springs traveling south on Highway 111, east on Racquet Club Drive, south on Farrell Drive, east on Vista Chino and north on Gene Autry Trail to Dillon Road, according to Amy Blaisdell, Palm Springs’ director of communications.

The lid will park on Dillon and Indian most of the day tomorrow, and make its trek to the high desert on Thursday evening.

Motorists were encourage to use alternative routes.