The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) will begin a 30-mi. (48 km) pavement rehabilitation project on Interstate 40 (I-40) near Essex.

The contract was awarded to Granite Construction Company in September 2007. This $44 million project will begin in early spring and will continue until late fall 2009.

Work will include new asphalt paving, wider shoulders, improved drainage, upgraded guardrail and rumble strip installation.

Interstate 40 has traffic, heavy vehicles and extreme weather, which all take their toll on the roads. As a result, the roadway on I-40 between Kelbaker Road and Mountain Spring Road overcrossing is deteriorating. This project will provide motorists and truckers with a smoother, more comfortable drive.

To complete this work, lane and ramp closures will be necessary. At least one lane will be open to motorists at all times.

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