‘Coronageddon’ returns with 91 Freeway closure in Corona this weekend
By Michael Roberts
31 October 2009
The closing of the two bridges that connect the eastside to the westside of Los Angeles was initially scheduled to occur on October 13, but has been further postponed this weekend as a result of the ongoing “Coronageddon” which is being experienced in this city.
According to officials at the LA County Sheriff’s Department, the decision was made to shut down both the 91 Freeway and the 105 Freeway. Both freeways will be closed until Tuesday, October 20.
Police officials have cited “significant congestion, safety concerns and the potential for public panic as being reasons for closing down the 105 Freeway in both directions,” according to the department’s statement. “The decision was made to close the entire highway, without exception, due to the anticipated high level of congestion and safety concerns the entire week following the event.”
The statement goes on to state: “The freeway is expected to be fully operational by October 18, but will be closed this weekend and into Sunday, October 23. Motorists are advised to drive with caution and to allow extra time for travel in both directions during this time. Residents are urged to be vigilant in securing their vehicles and to be aware of their surroundings while on the roads.”
All of the surrounding communities that border the twin freeway systems are also expected to be affected by the shutdown, although to a much lesser degree. South of the 405 in the San Fernando Valley, the 101 Freeway will be closed completely, but the 210 Freeway will remain open throughout. Meanwhile, on the eastside, the 91 Freeway will be closed along the Ventura Freeway westbound (southbound) in both directions. In addition, the 110 Freeway from the 101 Freeway to the 405 will also be shut down westbound during the same time period.
The Los Angeles Times reports that an estimated 30,000 people are expected to be on the roads during the two-day shutdown. According to the Times, “The California Highway Patrol expects to use helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft to keep traffic moving during the shutdown.” The only exception will be through the work zone, which will be used for traffic control