Moraga Sinkhole Intersection Is Safe For Vehicle Travel: Consultants

MORAGA - Consultants for the Town of Moraga have determined that the Rheem Boulevard and Center Street intersection is safe for vehicles.

In a post online, Edric Kwan, Moraga's Public Works Director, announced Moraga has assembled a plan to switch traffic from the detour routes back onto the road, limiting access to one lane in each direction on Rheem Boulevard.

Also on Patch:

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• Moraga Asks For State Help To Repair Sinkhole Damage
• Governor Brown Declares State Of Emergency for Contra Costa County
• 8 Straight Days Of Rain Caused Moraga Sinkhole: Officials

Here's the full text of the release as posted:

Sinkhole Update - May 5, 2016

For questions or additional information, please contact Edric Kwan, Moraga's Public Works Director at 925-888-7025 or via e-mail at ekwan@moraga.ca.us

Based on results from tests conducted along the alignment of the existing 96-inch diameter corrugated metal pipe (CMP), the Town’s consultants have determined that the Rheem Boulevard and Center Street intersection is safe for vehicles. The Town has assembled a

plan to switch traffic from the detour routes back onto the road, limiting access to one lane in each direction on Rheem Boulevard. Prior to reopening Rheem Boulevard, the Town will need to patch

existing test pits, potholes, and trench cuts, install a temporary curb ramp for pedestrian pathways, rent vehicle barricades, and reconfigure traffic control devices. Traffic is anticipated to be switched

back onto Rheem Boulevard next week, possibly as early as next Wednesday. A preview of the traffic control plan can be found at the Sinkhole webpage.

Preparing for the repair is progressing on schedule with the 65% design submittal and contractor prequalification documents complete. After the bid documents are complete and bid proposals are

received, the Public Works Director/Town Engineer will make a recommendation to the Town Council on June 8 to award a construction contract and begin construction of the repair project.

Construction is anticipated to take 2 to 3 months and be completed before the beginning of the next rainy season, October 15. For those interested in the April 27 Town Council presentation on the cause and repair alternatives, the video link can be viewed from the Sinkhole webpage.

The Town has engaged the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) through the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), has submitted initial required documents to start the disaster process, and must now wait for the next steps necessary for possible financial assistance to fund the estimated $3.3 in million repair costs. This update and all past updates can be found on the Town website’s dedicated Sinkhole webpage. Thank you for your continued patience.

-image via Moraga-Orinda Fire District Facebook page