IDYLLWILD – (INT) – Workers rebuilding storm-damaged segments of State highways 243 and 74 have shifted to around-the-clock schedules. They had been on 12-hour shifts.

Caltrans says the change will come with improving weather.

Idyllwild and Mountain Center have been hit hard with lack of tourism and accessibility since the Valentine’s Day storm washed out roadbeds, culverts and mountain slopes on both routes.

By May 1st, Caltrans hopes to provide access to motorists on SR 74 from Hemet under escort for three hours in the morning and three hours in the late afternoon. Full access may not come until later in the summer.

Work will continue simultaneously on SR 243 to provide access in the coming weeks between Idyllwild and Lake Fulmor.

There is unrestricted access to the mountains communities from Anza and Palm Desert.

An $8 million emergency contract has been awarded to Ames Construction to expedite the rebuilding.

Story Date: April 8, 2019