Even with these repairs complete, the work on the long stretch of freeway between Oceanside and Escondido is far from over. Construction is possible through mid-2025 due to another project, Caltrans said.
For about two months, North County San Diegans have been detoured around one of their most-significant thoroughfares, which caused headaches and delays as drivers snaked around the city to avoid the closure. On Monday, Caltrans crews announced the traffic nightmare is over -- the SR-78 will reopen for the evening commute.
The lengthy closure began March 15 when a massive sinkhole appeared during one of the many atmospheric river storms that drenched San Diego County last winter and early spring. Workers had to excavate up to 60 feet down and then rebuild the roadway, starting first with westbound lanes between College Boulevard and El Camino Real before work could begin on eastbound lanes.
"Work that would normally take six to nine months to complete and we did it in three weeks," Rizzuto said. "We were delayed because of several rain events... That was challenging for us to work in the rain. There was significant rainfall through the area, which caused us quite a bit of delay to be honest with you."
Caltrans said the emergency project cost more than $21 million but is expected to last 50 years before any more repairs are needed. Caltrans previously said they would request emergency funds from the federal government since the damage was weather-related but it was not yet clear if the ask had been made.
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