California: I-10 Desert Rehab Project

Singing A New Tune Along I-10 in the Coachella Valley     

Challenge: The Coachella Valley in California is best known for its world-renowned, annual music festival which attracts the rich and famous from all corners of the globe. Less entertaining but just as essential, this desert landscape is where I-10 runs through – bringing goods from all corners of the globe. However, the pavement was not designed to withstand heavy loading for over 40 years.     

Solution: With help from the federal infrastructure investment law this corridor will soon be singing a new song. The California Department of Transportation’s (Caltrans) 13 –mile, I-10 Desert Rehab project includes pavement rehabilitation and the addition of an eastbound truck climbing lane. Other new features: solar-powered electric vehicle charging stations; improved drainage and storm water treatment systems; upgraded bridge railings; new guardrail systems; and a 30-foot Clear Recovery Zone (CRZ) in the median.   

Photo credit: @i10desertrehab