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Get Ready for a 55-Hour Closure of University Parkway at I-215: What to Know

Update Significant Closure to Transform University Parkway This weekend, a full closure of University Parkway at the Interstate 215 interchange is set to take place, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing transformation of this critical roadway. From 9:00 PM on Friday, April 17, through 5:00 AM on Monday, April 20, motorists will need to navigate alternate routes as officials finalize preparations for a new Diverging Diamond Interchange (DDI). This construction aims to enhance traffic flow, safety, and accessibility for one of San Bernardino's busiest intersections. What to Expect During the 55-Hour Closure Motorists can expect significant disruptions, with all on- and off-ramps to University Parkway closed during the closure period. SBCTA (San Bernardino County Transportation Authority) encourages everyone to plan ahead. Access to the 215 Freeway will still be available at Palm Avenue, while Kendall Drive and Hallmark Parkway will direct drivers around the closure. While businesses along Hallmark Parkway will remain accessible, the essential nature of this work cannot be understated—the DDI will help alleviate the congestion frequently blamed for delays, especially for commuters heading to Cal State San Bernardino. This project, amounting to a hefty $25.7 million, kickstarted in November 2024 and is a collaboration that draws from federal, state, and local funding resources, including Measure I and federal grants. The anticipation surrounding its completion is high, with adjustments promising an improved flow of over 18,000 students, faculty, and staff accessing the university along with other locals navigating the interchange. DDI: A Cutting-Edge Approach to Traffic Management The unique DDI system is gaining traction across the United States, designed to allow opposite-direction traffic to temporarily switch sides at specific intersections. This configuration not only eliminates the need for left-turn signals but enhances the overall capacity of the road without expanding the physical footprint. Since the first installation in 2009 in Springfield, Missouri, the approach has been adopted in more than 90 locations nationwide, showcasing its ability to streamline traffic. In California, several DDI projects are either in progress or on the drawing boards, signaling a growing recognition of the need for innovative approaches to traffic management. The move towards DDIs is reflective of broader shifts in transportation planning, aiming to address increasing congestion and promote safer roadways across urban landscapes. Final Improvements and Community Impact The upcoming closure represents the last major construction hurdle for the DDI project, with full operational capacity anticipated by May. While the inconvenience of the 55-hour closure may pose challenges in the short term, the long-term benefits promise a smoother commute and reduced risk of accidents at a point where traffic-related issues have plagued the area. Local authorities are committed to keeping residents informed, with SBCTA updating the community through posts and alerts as construction progresses. As this latest phase of the DDI unfolds, residents can look forward to enjoying a transformed travel experience that enhances safety and efficiency through strategic engineering. Why You Should Care Understanding the changes happening at University Parkway is crucial not just for frequent commuters but for anyone in the San Bernardino area. Improvements like the DDI strive to make daily travel safer and more efficient, transforming how residents navigate their community. Furthermore, engaging with these developments fosters a greater appreciation for urban planning and infrastructure investments that shape our cities. As always, remain vigilant about construction updates and prepare for slight detours in your routine. Your flexibility contributes to the collective success of this essential roadway improvement.