Riverside County Considers Eminent Domain for Thermal Bridge Improvement Project

A key infrastructure project in Thermal is moving one step closer to reality.

The Riverside County Board of Supervisors is set to consider authorizing eminent domain to secure easements needed for the Airport Boulevard bridge replacement project.

The project aims to raise the bridge over the Whitewater River while also adding road improvements, sidewalks, and reinforced retaining walls to enhance safety and accessibility.

County officials say the use of eminent domain would allow them to acquire the necessary land for construction, but emphasize that no homes or businesses are expected to be displaced as part of the project.

Most of the funding for land acquisition is expected to come from state sources, helping ease the financial burden on local taxpayers.

If approved, the move would mark a significant step forward in improving infrastructure in the eastern Coachella Valley, with the goal of creating safer and more reliable transportation routes in the area.

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