Escorts to SR 74 from Hemet expected to start in 4-6 weeks
Caltrans, California Highway Patrol, and county officials held an informational meeting Monday night to update mountain communities on road repairs to Highway 74 and 243.
Both 74 and 243 sustained significant damage during the record-breaking storm on Feb. 14. Numerous storms since that day have only worsened the damage. Crews have been working 12 hours a day to repair the roads.
People who attended the meeting spoke about seeing road closure signs all over the mountain, but the meeting really made them understand how badly the roads have been damaged.
“It was good to see pictures because when you see the pictures you believe it a lot more than just seeing the little closed signs,” said Marla Moore, an Idyllwild resident.
CHP captured drone footage of the damage left behind.
“I had no idea. You think a little piece [of debris] here, a little piece there, no, roads are gone,” said Christine Holandna, owner of Lily of the Valley Florist in Idyllwild.
Holandna says her business is staying afloat with support from locals but other small businesses who rely on visitors are struggling.
“We’re still here, were alive, come up,” Holanda said.
Read: Road closures impacting mountain commuters and businesses
If all goes according to plan, more people will be able to travel up the mountain soon.
Caltrans officials announced that in four to six weeks, drivers will have access to SR 74 from Hemet with an escort from 4 am to 7 am and 6 pm to 9 pm.
“That’ll be really good for the community because right now we’re really struggling to figure out how to make paydays for their employees,” one resident said.
Caltrans officials also said that escorts will become available all day in about 12 weeks.
If you missed today’s meeting another informational meeting is scheduled for this Wednesday at 10 am at the United States Forest Service Cranston Station near Florida Avenue and Idyllwild National Forest Highway in Hemet.
Idyllwild residents are also selling bracelets to help raise money for those affected by the loss of tourism. Click here to buy a bracelet.
