Crews work swiftly to partially reopen I-10 by Friday

Crews are working day and night to make repairs and reopen the 45-mile stretch of freeway in the wake of the bridge collapse near Desert Center Sunday.

“It’s been a lot of progress,” said California Highway Patrol officer Mike Radford.

Starting Friday at 12 p.m. vehicles heading east will slow into one lane and crossover to the westbound side with one lane in each direction. Drivers will pass the damaged bridge then reconnect to eastbound I-10.

“Probably a little bit more delays for the eastbound traffic, but we’re just happy it’ll be open in general,” said Radford.

People can decide whether to take the I-10 with delays or stick to the long alternate routes.

Radford said track your routes and plan ahead.

“There are going to be delays whichever way you go. You can check live traffic. Use your best judgement and plan ahead … You’ll find the best option for yourself,” said Radford.

The CHP will keep two officers in the area this weekend to help direct the flow of I-10 traffic.