Authorities in California announced on Tuesday that the restoration and reopening of the damaged portion of Interstate 10, located near downtown Los Angeles, is expected to take three to five weeks. Additionally, investigators have concluded that the fire, which engulfed an eight-acre area beneath the highway overpass on Saturday, November 11, was intentionally set by an arsonist.
“After testing samples and assessing damage from the site, state transportation officials currently believe the damage can be repaired without demolishing and rebuilding the 450-foot span of the 10 Freeway, which could have taken upwards of six months,” said a statement from Gov. Gavin Newsome’s office. “Union crews are working 24 hours a day, seven days a week to finish removing the extensive debris and shore up the pillars. These efforts are aimed at making the necessary repairs to safely reopen the freeway to moving traffic as soon as possible.”
The fire ignited shortly after midnight, causing substantial damage to 100 pillars supporting the highway. This particular stretch of the interstate typically accommodates over 300,000 vehicles daily. The intense blaze, battled by 160 firefighters from 26 divisions, resulted in the destruction of two storage areas containing wooden pallets and numerous vehicles. Notably, the pillars affected are 3 feet in diameter and stand at a height of 16 feet.
In response to the highway closure, city officials urged motorists to follow approved detours on the city’s interstates. However, a significant number of drivers have opted for alternate routes on the city’s surface streets, leading to congestion. Mayor Karen Bass expressed concern on Tuesday, noting that city streets resembled parking lots. In an effort to manage the increased traffic, additional police officers have been deployed to direct vehicles. The city’s fire chief raised alarm about delays for emergency vehicles caused by the resulting traffic snarls.
Governor Newsom announced that by the week’s end, the state will provide a live stream of the construction efforts, allowing the public to witness the progress directly. Individuals in California and beyond can access real-time updates on the project, information on alternate routes, and details about public transit options by visiting Fixthe10.ca.gov, as outlined by the governor’s office.
