The newly reopened intersection at Rheem Boulevard. Photo Sophie Braccini
The Moraga Public Works and Police departments were able to reopen Rheem Boulevard May 11 at the intersection of Moraga Road with two lanes - enough to get traffic through and avoid the sinkhole that formed two months ago.
Edric Kwan, the Public Works director leading the repair project, said that testing was done to make sure that no other hole would form in that area before reopening traffic.
A circuit marked out in red guides drivers through the westbound access of Rheem Boulevard at Moraga Road. The speed is limited to 25 mph and the signals at Center Street have been replaced with stop signs. One of the light posts fell into the sinkhole that formed last March after the heavy rains.
Kwan said that this change would be in effect until restoration construction begins. His team is on track preparing the design documents for repair and pre-screening for contractors. He expects that the streamlined process will guarantee the best price, and work completion by the Oct. 15 deadline, which is the beginning of the rainy season.
Kwan added that one of his most important tasks was convincing CalTrans, which will channel state emergency funds, of the seriousness of the Moraga situation and getting the agency to work with the town.