News release

The Reds Meadow Road has been selected for a California Federal Lands Access Program (CA FLAP) Project, preliminarily funded in 2022, based on availability of funding.

Reds Road

“As this last winter demonstrated, Reds Meadow Road is in need of major repairs and stabilization,” said Nora Gamino, Forest Engineer. “This project is an exciting opportunity to make much needed improvements to this narrow, mountain road so that our visitors can continue to enjoy these areas for years to come.”

This proposed project will improve the deteriorated condition of Reds Meadow Road and provide safe, reliable access to recreational resources. This project will facilitate emergency response in the valley and enhance safety for motorists and non-motorists alike.

The scope will include reconstruction and widening of the upper 2.5 miles to two lanes and repaving and slight realignments of the lower 5.8 miles of Reds Meadow Road. This work will include retaining walls, slope stabilization, and drainage improvements.

The Town of Mammoth Lakes, The Inyo National Forest, and Devils Postpile National Monument worked together to submit the proposal to Federal Highways Administration to request the funding.

The Town will ultimately assume control of and responsibility for the road. Numerous other partners, including Eastern Sierra Transit Authority are committed to the long-term maintenance after the reconstruction is completed.

Mono County Local Transportation Commission and Inyo County Local Transportation Commission provided much needed support during this process.

The total project cost, including engineering and construction, is estimated to be $24,250,000.

The Town of Mammoth Lakes has requested the use of toll credits to meet the 11.47% minimum match requirement, estimated to be $2,800,000.

The National Park Service and the US Forest Service are also contributing funding to meet the match requirement. Additionally, the Inyo National Forest has invested $740,000 to project development thus far, and submitted a strong application that demonstrated a commitment to improving the road.

As a reminder, there is a public meeting scheduled for Thursday, September 7th at 437 Old Mammoth Road, Suite Z (above the Vons), Mammoth Lakes CA from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. The public will have the opportunity to comment on the proposed reconstruction project.