So, you're probably wondering what's the latest with the "Fix I-5" project? Here's what I know. I just got off the phone with Rochelle Jenkins who's a public information officer for Caltrans' District Three office in Marysville. She tells me that the number three lane of the northbound section of I-5 should be fully paved sometime today, (Wednesday, June 4). Rochelle says Caltrans is "very pleased" with the progress that has been made since the repair work started last Friday, and so far, she says everything is going according to schedule.
And, here's something entirely interesting about the technology driving this project. Rochelle says the new concrete that's going into the I-5 project is environmentally-friendly. Apparently the old rebar--that's the steel reinforcement rods used in the concrete--is being removed from the discarded concrete only to be recycled into the new concrete. People who know about these things tell me---the rebar is ground into a powdery substance and it's mixed into a "special blend" of concrete especially designed for I-5 that's able to cure in no time and ready to driver over within hours after its poured. It's supposed to last for 40 years or more, wish that was the case with our vehicles.
Caltrans reminds commuters that the northbound lanes of I-5 will remain closed from roughly the cap city freeway to Richards Boulevard until June 9th. Then, a few days later, the southbound lanes of that same stretch will be closed at the "Boat Section" of the freeway.
Overall, transportation officials report that people who regularly drive I-5 near downtown Sacramento have responded very well to the project. They say most everybody has found an alternate route to their destinations, and so far we've avoided any big traffic jams that were a big worry before the project started. Keep it up!
Finally, a friendly reminder to all who view this blog that KXJZ is still providing updates on the I-5 project and other traffic reports during Morning Edition and All Things Considered every weekday. We're also still looking forward to receiving your comments and even shortcuts you've found while trying to navigate downtown Sacramento. So, keep them coming! Until next time, see you in the slow lane, Steve Shadley.