By james art 
The California Department of Transportation will continue its $9.8 million emergency project on State Route 330 near Running Springs in the San Bernardino Mountains.
Work includes asphalt work, grades, drainage, guardrails, damaged tree removal and repairs due to significant structural damage caused by the line fire.
Contractor and Caltrans crews are in the area removing damaged trees, installing new signs, rocks, installing new guardrail and erosion control fiber roll.
Crews have completed their grinding operation to remove the damaged asphalt and are preparing to repaving the six-mile stretch this week.
During that time, the road will remain completely closed from Highland Avenue to Live Oak Drive for the safety of both the public and crews on scene, Caltrans officials said.
If traveling during closed hours, commuters should plan to use SR-18 from San Bernardino or SR-38 from Mentone.
The launch route is expected to be open in 60 working days from the September 24 launch date. Obey all road closure signs to ensure safe transportation of equipment and crews.
Drivers should be aware that weather and/or other factors may affect the construction schedule.
Line fire 98% contained at 43,978 acres
The line fire was allegedly started Sept. 5 in north Highland by Justin Wayne Halstenberg, 34, of Norco, San Bernardino County Sheriff Shannon Dikus said.
Halstenberg, who was arrested four days after the wildfire, “allegedly started the line fire using incendiary devices at three locations,” Dikus said.
As of Oct. 31, the Line Fire was 98 percent contained after burning 43,978 acres, destroying one structure, damaging four others and injuring six people, according to Cal Fire.
Visit the Caltrans District 8 Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) accounts or the agency’s website for additional updated information.
Drivers can plan commutes and view live traffic conditions and planned lane closures using Caltrans’ QuickMap.
For those with sensory disabilities and those requiring information in a language other than English, contact Public Affairs at 909-383-4631 or TTY 711.
This article originally appeared in the Victorville Daily Press: SR-330 emergency road work project continues near Running Springs