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Construction will begin next week on 22 new bike turnouts in Mount Diablo State Park.
Once completed, the park will have 67 turnouts, which are important on the mountain as it’s a popular destination for bicyclists.
Turnouts allow bicyclists, who move at slower speeds as they pedal uphill, to pull out of the main traffic lane into their own lane so that vehicles can pass safely.
“State Parks is very excited to implement these critical safety measures with our partners,” said Diablo Range District Superintendent Clint Elsholz. “Each turnout can provide our visitors with a safer and more enjoyable park experience.”
Construction starts Monday. The three park roads receiving new turnouts (South Gate Road, Summit Road and North Gate Road) will be closed from 8 a.m. through 2 p.m. on weekdays. The park will be fully open on the weekends during the project.
The work will be done in three phases, with the first phase beginning South Gate Road. South Gate Road will remain closed on weekdays for approximately five weeks until the project moves to Summit Road and then to North Gate Road.
Vehicles, bicyclists, equestrians, and hikers will be prohibited on the closed roads until the project is completed.
Camping will only be allowed on Friday and Saturday nights in campgrounds along closed roads.
All trails and fire roads will remain open throughout the project.
California State Parks and its partners will host a celebration event to commemorate these safety improvements and recognize contributors to the project. Road closures, updates and celebration event information will be provided at parks.ca.gov/MountDiablo.
The state park system said in a statement that public safety at this popular destination remains a priority. Over the past few years, several safety enhancements have been implemented, such as double yellow line striping on roads, designating passing areas, repaving portions of the road, improving safety signage, and installing designated bike turnouts.
Park officials encourage Mount Diablo visitors to share the road. They ask all users to check the weather, bring water, wear layers, don’t forget sunscreen, obey park rules, park in designated areas, and tell someone where they are going and when they plan on returning.
They also ask visitors to help keep animals wild by viewing them from a safe distance. Do not touch or feed them.
Drivers and cyclists are asked to observe posted speed limits and stay in their lane on blind curves and don’t cut corners. Don’t pass on double yellow lines and only pass when there’s a clear view of oncoming traffic and it’s safe to do so.
Hikers should hike with a friend or family member. Drink and carry plenty of water (a minimum of one quart every two hours). Wear sturdy, comfortable, closed-toe shoes to help prevent injury and stay within designated trails. Do not walk off-trail or enter closed areas.
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