Route 74 washout expected to cause detours for a week; One lane open on Ortega Hwy

RIVERSIDE - Commuters between Hemet and Idyllwild or the Coachella Valley face a long detour around a major washout on California 74 this week.

About 40 feet of roadway washed out about six miles west of the junction with state Route 243. Caltrans officials began repairs Sunday, but the road may be closed a week.

No local roads are available as detours, California Highway Patrol officers said.

Alternate routes include Interstate 10 and routes 60 and 243 through Beaumont, or routes 79 and 371, and county road R-3, through Aguanga and Cahuilla.

One lane open on Ortega Hwy; Route 74 closure betwe...