New 71/91 Interchange Connector Opens, Delivering Major Mobility and Safety Improvements
Tue, 01/07/2025 - 05:00
The long-awaited 71/91 Interchange Project is now complete, marking a significant advancement in regional transportation infrastructure for western Riverside County and surrounding communities. Local officials, including Supervisor Spiegel, joined transportation partners to celebrate the ribbon-cutting of the new eastbound 91 to northbound 71 connector, an upgrade designed to improve traffic flow, safety, and regional access.
The newly opened, non-tolled connector replaces an outdated single-lane loop with a modern two-lane direct bridge that spans over the 91 freeway and the Santa Ana River. At 100 feet tall and 2,500 feet long, the connector is a vital addition for drivers commuting through Corona, Chino, and Chino Hills. The realigned eastbound 91 Green River Road on-ramp, along with a new auxiliary lane, now provides smoother access to both the 71 freeway and the eastbound 91 general purpose lanes.
Construction on the project began in January 2023. Throughout the build, crews excavated 400,000 cubic yards of roadway, installed more than 9 million pounds of rebar, constructed 4,000 cubic yards of retaining walls, and poured more than 36,000 cubic yards of concrete. The project was delivered on time and budget.
Beyond easing congestion and enhancing safety, the new connector is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support continued wildlife movement through the area. Funding was provided through a combination of federal, state, and local sources, including Measure A, Riverside County’s voter-approved sales tax for transportation improvements.
To learn more about the 71/91 Interchange Project, visit rctc.org/71-91interchange.
