The $41 million project is second segment of vital north-south link to open this year
ORANGE – Drivers along the Orange Freeway (SR-57) can expect to experience a more efficient commute with the addition of a northbound general-purpose lane that opened today between Katella and Lincoln avenues in Anaheim.
The addition of the three-mile lane is part a $41-million freeway improvement project led by Caltrans and the Orange County Transportation Authority. The project, which began in 2012, was funded with a mix of state dollars and Measure M, the county’s half-cent sales tax for transportation improvements.
“The 57 freeway has a rich history and provides a vital link for residents and businesses, so we’re very pleased to see this additional lane open to drivers,” said OCTA Chairman Shawn Nelson, also the chairman of the county’s Board of Supervisors. “This is another example of how we’re putting Measure M funds to good use to help drivers move more efficiently.”
The project included improvements to eight freeway ramps, widening of two bridges and the restriping of carpool lanes to allow for continuous access by drivers, which studies have shown reduces accidents and air pollution.
Improvements to the 57 freeway were completed in two phases. The first segment, an additional northbound lane along five miles between Orangethorpe Avenue in Placentia and Lambert Road in Brea, opened to traffic earlier this year.
The second segment eases traffic congestion near some of the region’s top entertainment and travel destinations, including Angel Stadium, the Honda Center and the new ARTIC transportation hub for trains, buses and taxis.
About 58,000 vehicles travel the 57 freeway each day.
Improvements to the 57 are among more than a dozen freeway projects under way, totaling more than $600 million. OCTA is delivering on what voters approved in Measure M, which sets aside 43 percent for freeway improvements.
While the new three-mile lane was made available to drivers as soon as it was ready, some additional nighttime closures will be necessary to put finishing touches on the project, including irrigation and electrical work.
For updates on the project, visit octa.net/sr57.
