Virtual Tour of US 99

- Tejon Pass

1951 expressway, retaining its original concrete surface.

Many changes have taken place over the years in Tejon Pass. The first paved roadway, at 4210', the Ridge Route, was completed here in 1915, paved in 1917, and repaved in 1923. Portions of the 1917 concrete were used as a base for the newer 1923 concrete, which was about 3 feet wider. In 1933, the pass was reconstructed and lowered to 4183' during the Ridge Route Alternate project. This roadway remained in use until 1951, when US 99 was reconstructed to expressway standards over the pass. None of the 1933 concrete was used here, it was torn up and buried. In 1966, I-5 was built over the pass, lowering the elevation yet again to 4144'.

Looking southerly along the 1951 expressway alignment. Bridge at center left crosses I-5 at the summit.

All three alignments. From the left, 1923 concrete, 1951 concrete, and 1966 concrete. This photo shows well the changes in elevation each new construction made.

Original alignment of the Ridge Route at Tejon Pass. These lanes were built in 1923 on top of the original 1919 Ridge Route concrete.

Aerial Photo of US 99 over Tejon Pass. Taken in 1958. View is southerly. Photo Courtesy - Caltrans

Go North on US 99 to Bakersfield

Go South on US 99 to Los Angeles

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