Crime & Safety

Silver Fire Aftermath: 243 Open for First Time Since Blaze Broke Out Aug. 7

Highway 243 was opened to all traffic at noon Friday Aug. 16 for the first time since the fast-moving Silver Fire prompted its closure on Wednesday Aug. 7.

More work remains to be done over the next six to eight weeks during daylight hours, according to Caltrans. Traffic control and escorts will begin Monday Aug. 19. 

The road was re-opened by Caltrans in collaboration with the California Highway Patrol, Cal Fire and the Forest Service. A CHP dispatcher confirmed the road opened at noon.

Here's part of a Caltrans statement: 

"Caltrans awarded a $1.2 million Emergency Director’s Order to Griffith Construction Company earlier this week as a result of the recent Silver Fire, which damaged portions of SR 243 between Interstate 10 near Banning and the Twin Pines community north of Idyllwild.

"Griffith Company and the specialized sub-contractors worked expeditiously to repair the damaged guardrail so that the route could be opened safely to the motoring public.

"No work will be conducted over the weekend to allow full access to residents and motorists.

"Beginning on Monday, August 19, traffic control will be in place with pilot car to allow the contractor to complete the work. The repairs will take place during daytime hours over the next estimated six to eight weeks. More detailed information on the work schedule will be released Monday Aug. 19."

The Silver Fire burned more than 31 square miles, destroyed 48 structures including 26 homes, severely burned one civilian and resulted in a dozen firefighter injuries, according to Cal Fire.



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