Construction begins on $50-million Avenue 50 bridge project in Coachella

California Construction New staff writer

Construction has begun on an approximately $50-million project to replace the existing low-water crossing on Avenue 50 over the Coachella Valley Stormwater Channel in Coachella.

Riverside Construction Company Inc. is building the project, which will widen and realign Avenue 50 from a two-lane road to a four-lane arterial facility to improve traffic flow, safety and connectivity as the city grows.

Work includes construction of a new five-span bridge over the channel, also known as the Whitewater River, and realignment of Tyler Street on the west side of the channel. Crews will also remove and reconstruct concrete slope protection and the CV Link multi-use pathway.

Additional work includes installing new waterlines, making street improvements and adding a traffic signal at the intersection of Avenue 50 and Tyler Street. The project also includes new traffic markings and signage.

The new bridge will replace the existing low-water crossing and provide a more reliable route across the stormwater channel.

The City of Coachella marked the start of construction with a groundbreaking ceremony.

The project will improve roadway safety and mobility while expanding capacity and connectivity as the city grows. Work includes realigning and widening Avenue 50 from two lanes to a four-lane arterial road and realigning Tyler Street on the west side of the channel, also known as the Whitewater River.