Description

What is the Central I‑215 Widening Project?

This project proposes to widen a 12.5-mile section of I‑215 from Scott Road north of Murrieta to Nuevo Road in Perris. One lane and a shoulder will be added in each direction in the unused portion of the center median, creating three general purpose freeway lanes in each direction. RCTC can use the existing freeway median for the project. In some portions of the project the median is 46 feet and can accommodate the planned widening. In other portions, the median is only 22 feet wide and is not adequate to accommodate the planned widening. In the areas where the median is only 22 feet wide, outside widening will be required. Using the median to the greatest extent possible will reduce the impacts to homes and businesses located adjacent to the freeway.

Improvements to a number of structures also are planned as part of this project, including:

Widening of the Salt Creek Bridge
Widening of the Romoland Flood Control Channel
Widening of the Ethanac Road Railroad Overhead Bridge
Widening of the San Jacinto Bridge
Replacement of the Perris Boulevard Overcrossing
Replacement of the D Street On-ramp/Overcrossing

In addition, plans call for the two existing freeway lanes in each direction to be resurfaced, creating a smoother ride for motorists.

Noise studies were performed to analyze the impacts of the project to area residents. Sound walls will be built along the west side of the freeway between McCall Boulevard and south of McLaughlin Road.

The preliminary engineering and environmental document phase of this project involved a series of studies and public meetings to determine how the project goals could be met while minimizing the impacts on the surrounding area. Project approvals are expected in early 2011, which will be followed by final engineering design and right of way acquisition. Construction is estimated to begin in late 2012 and last about three years.

This project will be funded in part by Measure A, Riverside County’s ½ cent sales tax for transportation investments across the county. RCTC may seek other state and federal sources to complete the funding for the project.