California State Route 75

State Route 75: A Highway Through Time

Imagine a road that has seen the evolution of San Diego County, from its early days as a bustling commercial street to its current status as a scenic route and economic driver. State Route 75, or SR 75, is more than just a highway; it’s a living history book. This 13-mile north-south state highway in San Diego County begins near Imperial Beach and heads west on Palm Avenue before continuing north along the Silver Strand. It passes through Coronado as Orange Avenue and crosses the San Diego–Coronado Bay Bridge, joining back with Interstate 5 near downtown San Diego.

The Early Days of SR 75

When was the first stone laid for this historic route? SR 75 was constructed by 1924 and added to the state highway system in 1933, becoming officially designated in 1964. The process of paving Orange Avenue began way back in 1893 with an estimated cost of $50,000 (about $2 million in today’s dollars). By 1920, the road was paved from Palm City to Imperial Beach, and the Silver Strand Highway opened that same year. The highway was added to the state highway system in 1931 and was designated as Legislative Route 199 two years later.

Widening Projects and Opposition

Imagine a road so important that it sparked debates and controversies over its expansion. In 1944, a contract was awarded to widen the highway between Coronado and Coronado Heights, but plans were put on hold due to local opposition. However, in 1955, a contract was given to the Daley Corporation to carry out the widening project, which cost $850,000 (about $7.3 million in today’s dollars). The California Senate approved funds for a study regarding a possible vehicular tunnel from San Diego to Coronado in 1955, and later proposed an underwater tube along SR 75 in June 1961.

Designation and Scenic Highway Status

How did this route become so significant that it was designated as a scenic highway? The SR 75 designation was established in 1963 with two segments: from I-5 to the ferry across San Diego Bay and from SR 125 to I-5. In May 1970, the part of SR 75 on the Coronado Bridge was declared a scenic highway. President Richard Nixon and Mexican president Díaz Ordaz used Orange Avenue as a motorcade route in September 1970.

Proposals and Rejections

What kind of proposals were made to improve this historic road, and how did they fare? Proposition N was proposed in 1974 to resolve traffic concerns in Coronado. The plan was rejected by voters, citing concerns about blocking the view of San Diego Bay and difficulties in altering traffic patterns. In February 1974, the portion of SR 75 from Pomona Avenue in Coronado to Imperial Beach was recommended as a scenic highway. Future improvements were cancelled in April 1974.

Modern Developments

How has this route evolved over time? By 1969, Palm Avenue was the primary commercial street in Imperial Beach. Plans were underway to add an interchange at Silver Strand State Beach for the Coronado Cays development. In May 1970, the part of SR 75 on the Coronado Bridge was declared a scenic highway.

Toll and Traffic Management

How did tolls play a role in managing traffic along this route? The bridge tolls ended at 10 p.m. on June 27, 2002. After traffic increased by 20 percent following the removal of the toll, the speed limit was decreased to 25 miles per hour along Third and Fourth streets. Traffic barriers along Third Street were removed in November 2004.

Future Prospects

What lies ahead for this historic route? The City of Coronado hired Ledford Enterprises to lobby for a tunnel from the Coronado bridge to the San Diego Naval Base but voters rejected Proposition H on June 8, 2010, which would have advised the city to undergo further investigation into building the tunnel. Efforts were underway by Imperial Beach city officials to improve the reputation and economic standing of the Palm Avenue area in the first decade of the 21st century.

State Route 75, a testament to the evolution of San Diego County, continues to play a vital role in connecting communities and driving economic growth. As we look towards the future, it’s clear that this historic route will continue to adapt and evolve, much like the city itself.