Re: Angeles Crest Highway

tate of California • Department of Transportation

NEWS RELEASE


Date: Monday, May 18, 2009
District 7: Los Angeles & Ventura Counties
Contact: Maria Raptis
Phone: (213) 897-9372

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA ADVISORY

ANGELES CREST HIGHWAY --A SCENIC WAY TO TRAVEL
Closed since 2004 for repairs, a portion of State Route 2 opens to the public



WHO: The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans)

Confirmed speakers: Doug Failing, Caltrans District 7 Director (Los Angeles and Ventura Counties) and Brad Mitzelfelt, Supervisor, District 1, San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors; and Captain Gregory Peck, California Highway Patrol, Southern Division.

WHAT: Opening Event for the Angeles Crest Highway (State Route 2), near Wrightwood.

WHEN: Wednesday, May 20, 2009 at 9:30 a.m.

WHERE: Angeles Crest Highway (SR-2) at Vincent Gap Vista Point, in the Angeles National Forest, approximately 12 miles west of Wrightwood, CA. Please plan for 1-1/2 hours to 2 hours for travel time in each direction. Parking lot available directly across from event site.

BACKGROUND: This $10.5 million project on SR-2 constructed a bridge approximately 10 miles west of Wrightwood, as well as roadway repairs, and safety improvements. Severe winter weather conditions in 2004/05 caused extensive damage at 17 sites along a 10-mile section of this route. Additional damage occurred in spring, 2006 required the construction of a bridge designed to allow rocks and run-off water to flow beneath it. This scenic route provides a direct connection to and from Los Angeles and San Bernardino Counties for motorists, sports enthusiasts and emergency responders.

PHOTO OP: Ribbon-cutting site overlooks a breathtaking view of the Forest.

DIRECTIONS: From Los Angeles County:
· Northbound Angeles Crest Highway (SR-2) to Vincent Gap Vista Point.
· Eastbound San Bernardino Freeway (I-10) or eastbound Foothill Freeway (I-210) to northbound Ontario Freeway (I-15) to westbound Pearblossom Highway (SR-138) to southbound Angeles Crest Highway (SR-2). Arrive at Vincent Gap Vista Point.

From Santa Clarita or San Fernando Valley:
· Northbound Antelope Valley Freeway (SR-14) to eastbound Pearblossom Highway (County road). Continue on eastbound Pearblossom Highway (SR-138) to southbound Angeles Crest Highway (SR-2). Arrive at Vincent Gap Vista Point.

From San Bernardino County:
· Northbound Mojave Freeway (I-15) to westbound State Route 138 west to southbound Angeles Crest Highway (SR-2). Arrive at Vincent Gap Vista Point.