There's a beautiful stretch of highway that originates in San Juan Capistrano near the Old Mission known as the Ortega Highway. It's actually the most direct route to get to Lake Elsinore and Temecula from South Orange County. Just about a mile or two out this road and you are in the country. Now that's a big deal here in So Cal. Most people probably think that all we are is congested freeways. That's not so. We have congested country roads, too. Yes, we do have our share of traffic here in California. It's just one of the trade-offs for living in such a beautiful and dynamic area---lots of people want to live her.
In fact, this two lane highway that stretches about 40 miles may be the most direct route, yet not necessarily the fastest route to the Inland Empire. You see, there are currently only two places where you can pass slow moving cars. So, if you get behind someone who chooses to go 10-20 miles below the speed limit, it can get pretty aggravating. There are also lots of blind curves through canyons and some steep climbs up hills. Frustrated drivers frequently pass illegally and cause or become the victims of fatal accidents.
So, Cal Trans has decided they need to address these issues and has committed $40 million on improving the safety of this stretch of Highway 74. According the Orange County Register, the project that began in February is currently ahead of schedule. As part of a three-year safety project, they'll be working daily and will close to one lane during the day and close the highway completely each night from 8:30 p.m. to 4:30 a.m.
For those who travel this highway (about 800-900 cars per day) as a part of their daily commute, this will create a nuisance for the time being. When completed in 2010 this project should bring about a much needed change in the safety of all who travel this road whether for a workday commute or a Sunday drive.
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Marlene Bridges, REALTOR® 800 777-1775
South Orange County Real Estate Website
Orange County Seniors Lifestyles Blog
SRES - Seniors Real Estate Specialist®
CRS-Certified Residential Specialist®
President - Laguna Hills/Laguna Woods Chamber of Commerce
Marlene is a highly experienced South Orange County CA REALTOR® specializing in residential Real Estate and the sale of Homes and Condos in South Orange County, California and Saddleback Valley cities of: Laguna Woods, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Beach, Rancho Santa Margarita, Lake Forest, Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente, Aliso Viejo, Mission Viejo.
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Hi, I love the photos you do. They are so big and dramatic. In the last paragraph, would you mind a suggestion? If not, then I propose you use the term REALTOR instead of real estate agent. Celebrate!
where do they get these words from? chokecherry LOL
Hi William - Glad you liked the photo. Have to admit I didn't take this one myself. The road has very few turnouts, so it's pretty hard to get a shot unless womeone is riding along with you. This looks like someone took the photo through a windshield. That's be the only option along most of this highway.
BTW - A chokecherry is actually the real name of a fruit---you just can't make some stuff up - LOL
I'm glad that they are finally doing something about this. Some of our friends own a ranch that we visit fairily often that's off of Ortega Highway, and I'll be going a nice easy 70-75 MPH, and someone will tailgate me. It's been really unsafe, and not well-lit.
Galel - You are so fortunate to be able to enjoy this beautiful piece of the world at your friend's ranch. And yes, it is an interesting highway. People are either going over the speed limit like you mentioned or waaaaaaay below. Both are frustrating. I doubt they'll be adding lanes, but if there are enough turnouts and signs to encourage the use of turnouts it will sure help. Thanks for commenting.
Great photo! Looks like a beautiful commute!
you do have some amazing view there... but being on the Gulf of Mexico all my life those beaches feel so cold! 70 compared to 85 is SOOOOOOO different
Hi Marlene,
Nice job! I read news flash on this one...Cal Trans is actually ahead of schedule, that's amazing!
Ana - It really is a lovely drive. In a mastter of minutes you're out in the country from the freeway.
Katrina - Thnaks for stopping by to read this post.
Hey Lynda - Yup Cal Trans is AHEAD of schedule. It such a huge project.
Marlene,
Great info. I know this stretch of road well. I am glad to see that the OC has finally done something about fixing it.
Hi Joe - It is a beautiful location, but the highway has long needed safety improvements. Cal Trans is actually doing the work as it is a state highway that spans two counties. We're happy here in the OC that something is being done to make it safer for all.
I love driving the Ortega-but you have to be careful while taking in the views that you don't careen off a cliff or something!! Safety is a good thing!
I hope you weren't standing in the middle of that highway with cars coming around the corner! Beautiful views I bet though....glad they're fixing the road.