Cross Valley Connector nears completion, festivities planned
The City of Santa Clarita waits with bated breath as the final phases of construction on the Cross Valley Connector near completion, and city officials have begun planning grand opening festivities and events. The new thoroughfare is scheduled to open by the end of March, and that event will be preceded by a hard hat tour and reception.
The project, the valley’s first new east-west road in 10 years, cost $245 million to complete and will provide a direct link between Interstate 5 and State Route 14. The last segment of the 8.5 mile roadway will link Newhall Ranch and Golden Valley Roads via a bridge over the Santa Clara River. City Public Information Officer Gail Ortiz said the presence of the riverbed has required extensive environmental considerations, resulting in longer construction time.
The city expects the Connector to reduce 5,000 hours of vehicle delay each day and help improve air quality as well. Smoother travel for all vehicles will also mean quicker response times for emergency responders.