News Release
NPS Photo
News Release Date: November 4, 2026
Contact:
PWR Public Affairs
BARSTOW, Calif. — The National Park Service, in partnership with the Federal Highway Administration, will begin a major road rehabilitation and safety improvement project along approximately 42 miles of Kelso-Cima Road and South Kelbaker Road in Mojave National Preserve Nov. 16. The multiyear project is expected to be completed in 2029.
The project is funded in part through the Great American Outdoors Act Legacy Restoration Fund, established under legislation signed into law by President Donald J. Trump in 2020. This investment will help address longstanding maintenance needs, improve driver safety and strengthen the reliability of two of the preserve's primary travel corridors.
Constructed decades ago, these roads face deteriorating pavement conditions, limited drainage and increased vulnerability to extreme temperatures and seasonal flooding.
Public Meeting Nov. 9
The public is invited to attend a meeting Monday, Nov. 9, at 4 p.m. Pacific Time to learn more about the project, anticipated construction phases, road closures and potential travel impacts. Park staff will provide an overview of the project and answer questions.
The meeting will be held virtually via Microsoft Teams. Participants may join using a web browser or the Microsoft Teams app on an internet-connected computer or mobile device.
Anticipated Road Closures and Travel Impacts
Construction will occur in phases and require road closures throughout the project. Closures may result in significant additional travel time, particularly for motorists traveling through the region. Travelers are encouraged to plan ahead, check current road conditions and identify alternate routes before departing. For current road conditions, closures and project updates, visit Mojave National Preserve's current conditions page at https://www.nps.gov/moja/planyourvisit/conditions.htm.
Investing in Safer, More Resilient Roads
The project will improve roadway safety by widening shoulders, adjusting road alignments and improving sightlines and challenging curves. Drainage improvements will help reduce damage from seasonal flooding and extreme weather, supporting more reliable travel and sustainable long-term maintenance. The project will also incorporate measures to protect sensitive desert tortoise habitat and other natural and cultural resources during construction.
About the National Park Service. Established in 1916, the National Park Service preserves America’s most treasured natural and cultural places for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of current and future generations. Learn more at nps.gov.
Last updated: November 4, 2026