Stockton, CA…The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) District 10 has begun assessment of the Central Sierra passes for reopening this spring after record rain, snowfall and high winds wreaked havoc in the Sierras this winter. Caltrans’ goal is to work closely with our partnering agencies to ensure our pass clearing operations meet the needs of the traveling public and our local communities alike. Due to the critical nature these routes have on the local economy of the communities they serve, Caltrans is working toward opening Route 89 Monitor Pass, Route 4 Ebbetts Pass, and Route 108 Sonora Pass as expeditiously as possible to allow travelers access through the Sierras on these seasonal routes.

Caltrans’ snow removal and winter roadway operations will continue 7 days per week as weather conditions allow. Motorists are advised to keep a safe distance between their vehicle, Caltrans equipment and all highway workers.
Although the locations for winter closures remain the same from year to year, the effort and time necessary for pass opening can vary greatly. The major factors that affect our efforts are the amount of accumulated snow, the frequency and duration of late-season spring storms, springtime temperatures and winter damage to the roadway.
The process of opening passes in the spring includes more than just removing snow. Winter conditions can cause damage to the roadway. Slide removal, pavement repair, tree maintenance, and ditch clearing are among the tasks that must be completed prior to reopening the highway. The foremost guiding principle in this process is to maintain public and worker safety.

Some of these passes have evolved from wagon trails and still consist of un-engineered alignments and structural sections. Sonora Pass has grades greater than 20 percent and Ebbetts Pass has grades greater than 23 percent, which far exceed the typical modern mountain highway grade of 6 percent.

The steep grades, high elevation, and narrow width of the roadway cannot accommodate snow removal equipment and vehicular traffic at the same time, making season-long operations impractical.

Caltrans reminds motorists to carry chains when traveling in the mountains and be prepared to stop and install them when highway signs indicate chains are required for your safety. Vehicles without chains are not permitted to enter chain control areas.

Before you hit the road, plan your trip with the Caltrans QuickMap app or website at quickmap.dot.ca.gov. You can also call the Road Condition Hotline at 1-800-427-ROAD (7623). These and other driving tips, can be found at https://dot.ca.gov/travel.

For the safety of workers and other motorists, please Be Work Zone Alert.
State Route 89/Monitor Pass
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