10 Freeway Rest Areas In RivCo Remain Closed As $38.2 Million Project Underway: Caltrans

CACTUS CITY, CA — Work is underway on a $38.2 million project to reconstruct the Cactus City rest areas along the 10 Freeway and improve safety for motorists traveling between Indio and Chiriaco Summit, Caltrans announced on Friday.

The project, funded through Senate Bill 1, the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017, has been in development for one year. The project includes upgrades to water and wastewater treatment systems, relocation of electric vehicle charging stations, new hot-mix asphalt paving, additional parking spaces, landscaping improvements and Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant curb ramps, according to Caltrans.

The eastbound and westbound Cactus City rest areas are expected to remain closed until spring 2027.

Current construction work includes grading throughout the project area, installation of cement block walls for the eastbound and westbound buildings, facility construction, electrical work, light pole installation, parking lot development and landscaping, the agency said.

Caltrans said the placement and movement of temporary K-rail barriers may change daily to protect workers and maintain construction site safety.

Motorists also should anticipate occasional lane closures near the rest area entrances and exits during construction hours. Construction signs have been placed throughout the project zone, and drivers are urged to proceed cautiously as work vehicles and crews move in and out of highway shoulder areas, the agency said.

With both Cactus City rest areas closed, Caltrans recommended that travelers plan ahead and use alternative facilities along the route.

The next available rest stops are the Whitewater rest area, approximately 46 miles westbound, and Wiley’s Well, approximately 63 miles eastbound.

Drivers were advised to follow posted construction signs and obey applicable traffic laws and regulations, which will be enforced by the California Highway Patrol.