Portola Avenue Extension, Overcrossing Nears Completion

Here's an update we received Thursday on the Portola Avenue extension and overcrossing project:

The Portola Ave extension and overcrossing are expected to be opened to the public by Wednesday March 21st. The city's contractor finished paving the Portola overcrossing southerly approach yesterday (Wednesday) including the intersections with East Airway Blvd and Murrieta Blvd. We now have to wait for asphalt to cure for one week before roadway can be permanently striped. Forecasted showers for next week may affect the opening date.

—Roberto Escobar, Resident Engineer for

Completion of the new Portola Avenue overpass will provide the final access route to the new . The interchange opened to motorists in November and six months ahead of schedule.

Officials say the interchange will improve the connection between State Route 84 and Interstate 580. In addition, it creates a new second access route to Las Positas College and the local businesses and residences on the north side of I-580 while reducing traffic congestion at the Airway Boulevard/I-580 interchange.