Navigating the Mother Lode this week? Buckle up, because roadwork is about to shake up your commute! While we all appreciate smoother roads, the temporary headaches are unavoidable. But here's where it gets tricky: multiple highways will see one-way traffic control, potentially causing delays and frustration. And this is the part most people miss—proper planning can save you time and stress.
Let’s break it down. Highway 4 will have one-way traffic from Appaloosa Road to Stallion Way for construction, with varying hours from Tuesday to Friday. Highway 26 is a hotspot for tree work, with three separate sections—Church Street to Ridge Road, Lower Dorray Road to Barney Way, and Stanley Road to Iris Way—all experiencing one-way control from Tuesday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Highway 49 isn’t off the hook either, with utility and tree work causing disruptions on Thursday and Tuesday, respectively. Highways 108 and 120 will also see tree work, with specific hours and locations to note.
But here's where it gets controversial: Caltrans has officially closed several mountain passes—Highway 4/Ebbetts Pass, Highway 89/Monitor Pass, Highway 108/Sonora Pass, and Highway 120/Tioga Pass—for the winter season. While safety is paramount, some locals argue these closures disrupt travel and business. What’s your take? Are these closures necessary, or do they go too far?
Motorists are urged to watch for icy conditions, carry chains, and avoid crowding snowplows. Expect 5 to 10-minute delays and consider alternate routes. Remember, schedules can change due to weather, equipment issues, or unexpected incidents. And this is the part most people miss: staying informed and being patient can make all the difference. For non-Caltrans roadwork updates, check out our local traffic news story list here.
So, what’s your experience with these roadwork disruptions? Do you think the closures are justified, or is there a better way to handle winter road safety? Let us know in the comments—we’re all ears!
