The Point: 55 mph speed limit is posted for safety of crews, motorists
Slow down! Drivers are speeding through the Route 60 Truck Lanes construction zone in Riverside County’s Badlands, despite the posting of 55 mph speed limit signs.
The Riverside County Transportation Commission, which is building the truck lanes on eastbound and westbound Route 60 between Gilman Springs Road and 1.4 miles west of Jack Rabbit Trail, reminds motorists of the new speed limit and that traffic fines are doubled in construction zones. The California Highway Patrol is increasing patrols in the area, due to the high rate of speed.
“For the safety of our construction crews and other motorists, please follow the speed limit. We want everyone to return home to their families at the end of the day,” RCTC Chair and Riverside County Supervisor Chuck Washington said. “This project is designed to improve safety through the Badlands. We need everyone to be safe during construction, as well as once the project is completed.”
The contractor has installed 55 mph speed limit signs and soon will be installing electronic feedback signs that display the rate of travel. Speeding is occurring in both directions, but more frequently on westbound 60, due to downhill travel.
“The California Highway Patrol will be dedicating resources to this project to ensure motorists maintain safe driving habits during construction,” said California Highway Patrol Commander Captain Mike Alvarez. “The CHP will be conducting aggressive and proactive enforcement to maintain the safety of the construction workers, motorists, and officers assigned to the construction zone.” Any traffic safety concern can be reported to the CHP at SanGorgonioPass@chp.ca.gov.
Drivers also are reminded that a full closure of one westbound lane on Route 60 will take place for approximately six months, starting in late August. Please register to receive construction updates by visiting rctc.org/60trucklanes, emailing 60trucklanes@rctc.org, or following @60TruckLanes on social media.