Traffic flow and safety are priorities as work continues to widen Railroad Canyon Rd. to six lanes, according to City officials.

The 10-month, $7.5 million project, which started in earnest on January 16, limits westbound traffic on Railroad Canyon Rd. to one lane.

During construction the speed limit on the road will be 35 mph. Those who are caught speeding in the work zone could be subject to double fines.

“This is a big project with more than 20 different subcontractors involved,” says Mayor Jordan Ehrenkranz. “Our No. 1 priority is traffic safety on Railroad Canyon Rd.”

To enhance traffic flow and safety, some changes were made to lanes exiting the Main Gate of Canyon Lake. The center right turn lane on Canyon Lake Dr. South was eliminated to allow cars to safely merge into one lane of westbound traffic on Railroad Canyon Rd. Additional paint and striping is planned to make sure drivers know that the center lane only goes straight.

In the meantime, all trees, shrubs, curbs, gutters and most sidewalks were removed on the north side of Railroad Canyon Rd. Mamco, Inc. has been contracted by the City to widen Railroad Canyon Rd. from four to six lanes from Canyon Hills Rd. to Sorrel Ln. New traffic signals, drainage improvements, decorative landscaping and retaining walls also will be constructed.

After Goetz Road is open, eastbound Railroad Canyon Rd. traffic will be limited to one lane from about March 15 to July 13.

Along with safety, convenience is also being stressed as roadways are closed for improvements. Access to residences and business will be maintained at all times, Mamco officials promise. For example, Towne Center East will be closed starting January 30 for about two weeks. But during the closure, Towne Center West will remain open to provide access to Canyon Lake Towne Center, according to Ed Boyce, project inspector.

No construction is planned on holidays. Roadwork will stop around noon the day before Memorial Day, 4th of July and Labor Day to facilitate holiday travel plans.

Questions? Call City Hall at 244-2955 or e-mail info@cityofcanyonlake.com. Visit www.cityofcanyonlake.com for updates.