Construction work continues as the Lovers Lane 198 Project moves into its last phase.
"So what you're seeing out there is going to be the reconstruction of the number one lane on Lover's Lane between Mineral King and Houston. So the left lane on both sides, that whole section is going to get redone, brand new pavement, and they're also reconstructing the median through that whole section, too," explains Christian Lukens, with Caltrans District 6.
Caltrans began construction about 15 months ago. The project will cost around $45 million in state funds but was desperately needed.
For residents, the investment means more than nice roads and new sidewalks. It also means improved traffic flow and safety in the area.
"We won't get so much of that race at the red light and that's where we get all of the accidents and wrecks. And unfortunately we get some bad ones," says Ronald Green, who lives in Visalia and has seen multiple car collisions on Lovers Lane.
The project has seen some challenges underground, since the city's sewer system, a waterway and some electrical wires run through the area.
And although the construction process has left many drivers stuck in traffic, the city says they look forward to the improvements local commuters will experience.
"At the end of the day, it's gonna save the people who are backing up on the freeway and creating a dangerous situation for those folks, because that is the key, safety. So it will be good in some aspects but then it will be frustrating for some people who are used to just getting off the freeway and jumping on Lovers Lane," expresses Visalia Mayor Brett Taylor.
Caltrans says the Lovers Lane 198 Project should be complete by the end of this year. In the meantime, drivers are encouraged to be aware of lane closures, especially as back-to-school traffic will pick back up in just a few weeks.
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