Bypass Blasts Ahead

Sonora, CA — Caltrans will be detouring traffic while blasting between 3:30 and 4:00pm on June 19th. The blast area is said to be between the Standard-Mono Way intersection to Draper Mine Road. Caltrans spokesperson Angela DaPrato says, “There may be delays of 30 to 60 minutes.” Delays depend on how the blasting goes and could be minimal.

The work is part of phase two of the project to extend the East Sonora Bypass. Motorists should be prepared for delays and use alternate routes when possible. There will be a detour in place.

DaPrato could not comment on if conditions could be too hot or dry, she noted the Explosive Expert will decide. She did say that the forecast for tomorrow was determined to be good for the blasting to go forward as scheduled.

DaPrato says the entire project is on schedule. Phase two of the East Sonora bypass began in April and is expected to be complete by July 2014. Funding came from Proposition 1B, the transportation bond measure approved by state voters in 2006. Caltrans says the additional roadway will ease congestion and decrease travel times for motorists heading to and from the high country.