Downtown Los Angeles Freeway Damaged by Fire to Remain Standing
In a recent development, officials have confirmed that a section of the 10 Freeway in downtown Los Angeles, previously damaged by a massive fire, will not need to be demolished. Upon conducting core samples, engineers discovered that the damage caused by the fire was not as extensive as initially feared.
The repair work is estimated to take between three to five weeks, during which traffic lanes could be partially reopened. To ensure the safety of commuters, construction crews have erected wooden structures to shore up the overpass while repairs are underway.
The fire, believed to have been intentionally set, originated at a property leased by Apex Development Inc. located under the 10 Freeway. This incident has once again shed light on the long-standing storage of flammable materials under freeways, which Caltrans engineers have known about for decades. Previous incidents of fires impacting columns have been reported.
In response to the closure of the freeway, various traffic detours have been put in place. Officials are urging residents to opt for public transportation and avoid the area if possible. Fortunately, the closure has not significantly affected student bus routes or caused major delays.
In an unrelated note, smaller fires near other freeways have been reported. However, officials confirm that these incidents are not connected to the 10 Freeway fire.
The overall impact of the damaged 10 Freeway on downtown Los Angeles commuters remains a concern. However, with the decision to avoid demolition and the anticipated reopening of partially functioning traffic lanes within the next few weeks, it is hoped that the inconvenience caused by the fire will soon be alleviated.
