71 Freeway Widening to Include 4 Additional Lanes
The long-awaited widening of the 71 Freeway in Pomona is progressing, with completion expected by fall 2025. The project aims to expand the freeway from four to eight lanes between the 10 and 60 freeways, significantly alleviating traffic congestion in the area. Currently, construction includes the addition of sound walls and realignment of on-ramps, such as the ongoing closure of the Rio Rancho Road on-ramp to the northbound 71 Freeway, which will remain closed until September 30. Pomona Mayor Tim Sandoval expressed optimism about the project, noting its potential to reduce traffic bottlenecks.
Funded by Measure M—a half-cent sales tax approved by Los Angeles County voters in 2016—the $98.3 million project includes the construction of an additional carpool lane and a general-purpose lane in each direction over a span of 3.1 miles. However, the project has faced delays due to record-breaking rainfall in Southern California and required the demolition of 17 homes to make way for the expansion. Local officials anticipate that the widened freeway will enhance connectivity, promote transit use, and improve air quality, making it a critical development for the Pomona community and surrounding regions.
