Chronic Traffic Snarl In Murrieta: $15M Fix Finally Set To Begin

MURRIETA, CA — The long-awaited Murrieta Hot Springs Road widening project is finally set to begin.

The $15 million infrastructure project involves widening the roadway from four lanes to six lanes between Margarita and Winchester roads.

"This expansion aims to alleviate congestion, improve traffic flow, and enhance pedestrian safety," according to the city.

El Centro-based Rove Engineering, Inc., was awarded the construction contract, which also includes the installation of a new traffic signal, sidewalks, bike lanes, streetlights, and other infrastructure improvements.

Work is expected to begin in the next few weeks, with an estimated project duration of approximately nine months, the city stated.

In the meantime, expect travel delays in the area.

Traffic circulation on Murrieta Hot Springs Road will be reduced to one lane in each direction during nighttime operations (9 p.m. to 5 a.m.), and three lanes during daytime operations (7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.). Two westbound lanes and one eastbound lane will remain open during daytime work, according to the city.

Full street closures are not planned.

Residents and visitors are asked to "pack their patience and, when possible, find an alternative route during this much-needed capital improvement project," Murrieta Mayor Cindy Warren said.

For regular updates on the project and anticipated traffic impacts, subscribe to receive notifications at www.MurrietaCa.gov/NotifyMe. Additionally, residents can visit www.MurrietaCA.gov/MHSR for more information.