Sun Lakes Boulevard Extension Project In Banning To Resume After Birds Abandon Nest

BANNING, CA — Nesting birds that halted part of the early construction of the Sun Lakes Boulevard Extension Project have vacated the area, clearing the way for work to resume, officials announced on Wednesday.

A biologist assigned to the Sun Lakes Boulevard Extension Project confirmed that the nesting birds within the project area have left, allowing the city to resume construction of the $33.5 million project.

RELATED: Banning Officials Break Ground On $33.5 Million Infrastructure Project

The discovery of the birds put work in the creek areas on hold last month.

Construction of the project kicked off May 26 with a groundbreaking including city leaders, stakeholders and partners.

The city has said the extension will close a gap between Sun Lakes Boulevard at Highland Home Road, and extend the roadway 1 mile easterly to connect at the intersection of Sunset Avenue and Westward Avenue.

RELATED: Sun Lakes Extension Project In Banning Closer To Next Phase: Officials

Funding for the infrastructure improvement project includes $13.5 million the Riverside County Transportation Commission (RCTC) and $20 million from the Western Riverside Council of Governments (WRCOG), officials said.

More information about the Sun Lakes Boulevard Project can be found on the City of Banning's website at banningca.gov/928/Sun-Lakes-Blvd-Extension.