The next phase of road construction at Mojave National Preserve on Kelbaker Road between Kelso and Baker begins today (February 27), as sections of the road damaged by heavy rain in 2022 will be repaired.
During the period of construction, Kelbaker Road continues to be closed to all vehicles for the safety of road crews and motorists until March 10, though the reopening may be pushed back due to weather delays.
After completing the Kelbaker Road project, Mojave National Preserve anticipates the start of major road construction project along 17.6 miles of Cima Road on March 20, requiring the closure of the Cima Road for approximately 1 year.
During the period of Cima Road construction, access to the Cima Dome and Teutonia Peak Trailhead areas will be very limited. This $24M dollar project will improve visitor safety and involve infrastructure designed to reduce mortality of the Federally Listed Desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) from motor vehicles impacts.
