Motorists who rely on the Foothill (210) Freeway to travel through Irwindale will experience some major traffic headaches for five days in July, with Caltrans announcing plans Thursday to shutter the westbound side of the freeway to accommodate upgrades on the San Gabriel River Bridge.
According to Caltrans, the westbound 210 Freeway will be closed from Irwindale Avenue to the junction with the San Gabriel River (605) Freeway beginning 11 p.m. July 13 and continuing through 4 a.m. July 19.
During the closure, westbound traffic will be re-routed onto the eastbound side of the freeway, which will be temporarily reconfigured to handle three lanes of traffic in each direction.
“Caltrans advises motorists to expect delays, seek alternate routes or use public transportation on the Metro L Line (Gold) or Metrolink during the closures,” according to a statement from Caltrans.
According to the agency, the closure is part of a $30 million project to upgrade the San Gabriel River Bridge by installing improved bridge hinges and railings and strengthening bridge decks.
In addition to closing the westbound side of the freeway, ramps from the westbound 210 to Irwindale Avenue and to the southbound 605 Freeway will also be closed. Ramps from the 605 Freeway to the eastbound 210 Freeway will be blocked as well.
Caltrans officials said a second five-day closure on the eastbound side of the freeway is being planned for August.