Ridge Route Volunteers Work to Fill Potholes

Now in the 3rd year of the Old Ridge Route Pothole Project, volunteers continue to work towards repairing and reopening this 111 year old road.

Every month, people gather in the parking lot of the O’Reily’s Auto Parts, bright and early. You never know who is going to show up – Surveyors, hot air balloon crew members, concert tour managers, conservationists, geologists, high school students and retirees. All lined up to take a trip back in time.

A bucket list item for many. To see the old road in all of it’s glory. But a true bragging point to be able to point out a pothole and say that you’ve left a make on history! The journey starts when the road escapes the development, springing out into the open land. It weaves along the ridge tops, passing by ghosts of old roadside stops. Queen Nell, who sold gasoline and soda to truckers. Martin’s Garage, where motorists stopped for repairs. Crossing over into the Angeles National Forest, the fun really begins!

The caravan makes it’s first stop just north of the old View Service Station, cool morning breeze flowing over the hilltop. When it comes to filling potholes, it’s not exactly a science but not something we take lightly. Rake out all the rocks, clear the loose sand with a broom and then use a leaf blower to take care of the rest. In a normal situation, the edges of the pothole would be cut back but since this is a historic resource, we keep as much original material as possible.

At each stop, the group takes in the sweeping views. Group leaders fill in the volunteers on the history of the area. The speakeasies, the roadside bandits, the construction process, the Inns that served travelers.

June’s group cleared brush around five of the old monuments, on the list to be repaired.

July’s group completed 8 potholes by 9:30AM, wrapping up right as the rain started.

August’s group? We’ll see on August 22nd! RSVP here! Can’t make it? Consder supporting by donating or becoming a member!