The California cities of Indio and La Quinta have begun a $900,000 joint reconstruction project of the intersection at state Highway 111 and Jefferson Street, reducing traffic to one lane in each direction until construction is scheduled to be completed Dec. 23.
Since the work began Dec. 11, officials have encouraged drivers to seek alternate routes as significant travel delays are expected, according to a release from the city of La Quinta. Road signs will be in place, and flaggers will direct bike, pedestrian and vehicle traffic.
"We appreciate your patience in advance as we work with Indio on fixing that major intersection," the city said in the release. "The public's cooperation and observance of all construction signs will also be greatly appreciated to ensure the safety of both drivers and construction crews."
Emergency vehicle access the the intersection won't be affected, the release noted.
Due to high traffic volumes during the day, work will mostly occur at night between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m., Sunday through Friday, to minimize traffic impacts, the release added.
Residents are warned to expect to hear noise, feel possible vibrations and potentially hear the backup alarms on equipment in the area. Although the city said efforts will be made to keep noise to a minimum, some beeping is to be expected.
Road signs will be in place to help drivers, and the intersection will be on red flash. The project's aim is to "restore the appearance of the street pavement. These improvements will also extend the asphalt pavement service life and minimize further deterioration," the release added.
Reconstruction includes the removal of deteriorated asphalt and base, construction of new asphalt pavement, reconstruction of pedestrian ramps and striping the new asphalt surface.
The project is funded through Measure A, which generates financing for transportation infrastructure in Riverside County through a half-cent sales tax, the release said. Both La Quinta and Indio are partners in the project, but Indio has taken the lead since the city owns 75% of the intersection.
Those with questions regarding the construction can call the Indio Public Works Department at 760-391-4017.