Attention all drivers! If you're planning to navigate Highway 46 east of Cholame, be prepared for some significant delays on Monday, February 9, and Tuesday, February 10. From 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on both days, road crews will be shifting traffic to a new roadway alignment, which may cause frustration for travelers.
During this two-day operation, motorists will be redirected onto newly constructed bridges and a slightly altered northbound alignment of Highway 46. Expect delays of approximately 15 minutes, with some intermittent stops potentially extending up to 30 minutes.
To ensure safety and improve traffic flow, the California Highway Patrol will be on-site to manage traffic breaks as essential striping and directional work is carried out. However, keep in mind that this schedule is subject to change based on weather conditions, so it’s wise to stay updated.
Once the new alignment is fully operational, there will be significant changes regarding access to Cholame Valley Road. The direct connections that once existed between Highway 46 and both Cholame Valley Road and Davis Road will no longer be available. Instead, a section of the former Highway 46 will be repurposed as a frontage road, which will provide access to vital locations like Jack Ranch Café, Davis Road, and Cholame Valley Road.
Going forward, if you are traveling on Highway 46 and need to reach Cholame Valley Road, you will now have to use the turnoff at Jack Ranch Café, whether you’re coming from the east or the west.
This construction and realignment represent a significant shift in traffic patterns in the area. How do you feel about these changes? Are they a necessary improvement or an inconvenience? Share your thoughts in the comments!