In addition to already existing road closures of Route 66 / National Trails Hwy, another section - Kelbaker Rd - has been closed in both directions on Feb 17, 2024.

This means that the only access to Amboy is from either Ludlow via Bagdad, or from 29 Palms via Amboy Rd.

Riders traveling through from either west or east would have to backtrack 28 miles from Amboy to the nearest I-40 access in Ludlow to continue their journey. This adds an additional 60 miles to your trip in whichever direction you're traveling.

Unfortunately and sadly, there is no date published as to when the road will be repaired and re-opened.

All data has been sourced from the San Bernardino Public Works Operations website https://dpw.sbcounty.gov/operations/road-closures/

Here is a list of indefinite Route 66 road closures for the section between Ludlow (I-40 Exit 50) and Fenner (I-40 Exit 107):

1. Essex Rd. > Closed since 07/25/2017

2. Goffs Rd. > Closed since 07/25/2017

3. Kelbaker Rd > Closed since 02/17/2024

4. Route 66 > Closed since 09/09/2017

5. Route 66 > Closed since 09/08/2014

6. Route 66 > Closed since 02/15/2024

The Perpetual Struggle of National Trails Highway: Understanding San Bernardino County’s Challenges

The National Trails Highway, a historical and significant roadway in California, has been grappling with recurring closures, a problem that has plagued San Bernardino County since as far back as 2014. This section aims to shed light on the underlying reasons behind the county's inability to effectively address and resolve these persistent issues.

Historical Significance and Persistent Challenges
National Trails Highway, also known as Route 66, is not just a road; it's a symbol of American travel heritage. However, this iconic highway has faced numerous challenges over the years, leading to frequent closures that frustrate travelers and locals alike. The issues contributing to these closures are multifaceted and complex.

Funding Shortfalls
One of the primary obstacles in addressing the highway's problems is funding. San Bernardino County, despite its efforts, has struggled to secure sufficient financial resources to undertake the extensive repairs needed. The costs associated with restoring and maintaining such a lengthy stretch of road are substantial, and without adequate funding, long-term solutions remain out of reach.

Environmental and Geographical Issues
The geographical location of the National Trails Highway contributes to its woes. Situated in an area prone to natural disasters such as flash floods, road and bridges often suffer significant damage. These environmental factors not only necessitate frequent repairs but also make the maintenance and rehabilitation process more challenging and costly.

Bureaucratic Hurdles
Bureaucratic processes and regulatory hurdles also play a role in delaying repair and maintenance work. The need for multiple approvals from different governmental agencies can slow down the initiation and progress of necessary projects. These administrative delays, coupled with the already limited resources, exacerbate the problem.

Historical Preservation Constraints
The National Trails Highway's status as a historic route adds another layer of complexity. Any repair or maintenance work must comply with specific standards to preserve its historical integrity. These requirements often entail more detailed and therefore more expensive work, stretching the already thin budget further.

Economic Constraints
San Bernardino County, like many local governments, faces broader economic challenges that impact its ability to allocate funds for road maintenance. With competing priorities such as public safety, health, and education, finding the resources to address the highway's issues is a constant struggle. It is highly unlikely for the county to spend a significant amount of money on a road project, which offers no return on investment. There's not a single business along this closed stretch of road that would have an influence on inducing a positive decision of the county toward the restoration of Route 66.

The situation of the National Trails Highway in San Bernardino County is a clear example of how historical significance, environmental challenges, bureaucratic processes, and economic constraints can converge to create a seemingly insurmountable problem. While the county continues to seek solutions, the repeated closures of this iconic highway serve as a reminder of the ongoing struggle to balance preservation, safety, and financial reality. Until a sustainable solution is found, the National Trails Highway may continue to face the challenges that have beset it for years.