Ortega Highway Expansion From Lake Elsinore To OC Begins Feb. 22

LAKE ELSINORE, CA — A $49 million project to expand the Ortega (74) Highway between Lake Elsinore and the Orange County line is scheduled to begin Feb. 22 and motorists were advised to expect delays as the work progresses.

The State Route 74 Widening Project will consist of Watsonville-based Granite Construction Inc. making a series of modifications intended to enhance safety along the two-lane corridor, according to Caltrans District 8 public information officer Kim Cherry.

The work will begin with excavation in preparation for widening existing westbound and eastbound lanes to 12 feet, as well as expanding shoulders on both sides to four feet, Cherry said.

Crews will also install in-ground rumble strips for the highway centerline and shoulders, Cherry said.

The upgrades will be focused on the approximately 10-mile stretch from Monte Vista Street, just west of Lake Elsinore, to the Orange County line.

Caltrans has not announced lane closures or flagging operations. They will be made in advance for the public's convenience.

Work is planned on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and on weekends between 8 p.m. and 5 a.m., Cherry said.

The project is scheduled to be completed in early 2025.

More information is available at https://dot.ca.gov/caltrans-near-me/district-8.