Drivers traveling through neighborhoods across the City of Colton this summer may notice construction equipment, temporary lane closures, and fresh pavement appearing on streets throughout the community. While the short-term inconvenience may require a little extra patience, city officials say the work represents a long-term investment in one of Colton's most valuable public assets: its transportation infrastructure.
The City's Fiscal Year 2025–26 Asphalt Paving Project officially began on June 22 and is scheduled to continue through Aug. 20. The project, managed by the City's Public Works Department and performed under contract by Matich Corporation, includes resurfacing numerous residential and heavily traveled streets across Colton. Work is taking place Monday through Thursday between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m., with temporary traffic controls and parking restrictions posted in advance for affected neighborhoods.
Street maintenance often receives little attention until road conditions begin to deteriorate, yet engineers consistently describe preventive maintenance as one of the most cost-effective investments a city can make. Asphalt surfaces naturally wear over time due to vehicle traffic, temperature changes, rain, and ultraviolet exposure. If roads are allowed to deteriorate too far, simple resurfacing is no longer enough and complete reconstruction becomes necessary, often costing several times more than timely maintenance.
By resurfacing streets before they reach that stage, Colton is working to preserve existing infrastructure while reducing future repair costs for taxpayers. Fresh pavement also creates smoother driving conditions, improves traction during wet weather, reduces wear on vehicles, and provides clearer pavement markings that enhance visibility for motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians alike.
According to the City's published construction schedule, improvements are planned on a wide range of streets throughout Colton. Locations include portions of 8th Street, 10th Street, Agua Mansa Road, Fogg Street, G Street, Glenwood Avenue, Holly Avenue, J Street, Miller Drive, Monterey Avenue, N Street, O Street, Olive Street, Rancho Avenue, Riverside Avenue, Skyview Drive, Washington Street, and Westwood Street. The project also includes modifications to bike lane striping along part of Washington Street, reflecting Colton's continued efforts to improve transportation options for all users of the roadway.
Residents living near construction zones are receiving advance notifications regarding temporary access restrictions and parking limitations. Motorists are encouraged to obey posted traffic controls, slow down near work crews, and allow additional travel time when construction is underway. City officials note that the schedule remains weather dependent and may be adjusted if necessary.
Although paving projects can temporarily disrupt daily routines, infrastructure improvements have historically played a significant role in Colton's growth. Since its incorporation in 1887, the city has served as an important transportation hub for the Inland Empire because of its railroad heritage, regional highways, and commercial corridors. As Colton has expanded over the decades, maintaining those transportation networks has remained essential for supporting residents, emergency services, schools, and local businesses.
Modern pavement management also reflects a broader shift in how cities approach public infrastructure. Rather than waiting for roads to fail, many municipalities now use pavement condition data to identify streets that can benefit most from preventive maintenance. This strategy helps stretch public dollars while improving the overall condition of city streets over time.
For businesses located along affected corridors, smoother roadways can improve customer access and create a more welcoming appearance for commercial districts. Residents benefit from quieter rides, reduced vehicle maintenance costs associated with damaged pavement, and safer travel conditions for everyone using the streets.
While construction may require temporary detours and a measure of patience throughout the summer, the long-term results are expected to serve the community for years to come. Infrastructure projects rarely generate the excitement of a new park or community event, yet they quietly strengthen the foundation upon which a city grows. As crews continue laying fresh asphalt across Colton, each newly resurfaced street represents another investment in the city's future, ensuring that the roads connecting neighborhoods, businesses, schools, and families remain safe, reliable, and ready for the generations that follow.