Expect more traffic jams along Ygnacio Valley Road

Maybe you got caught in the traffic jam Thursday on eastbound Ygnacio Valley Road between Civic Drive and the top of the hill. Well, expect more of the same over the next few days.

PG&E is carrying out a large utilities upgrade project in the area, which means tearing up sidewalks and closing lanes.

Walnut Creek Intermediate Principal Kevin Collins said that Friday the sidewalk at the corner of Ygnacio Valley Road and Walnut Boulevard, near the Walnut Creek School District, will be demolished and new concrete will be poured. The work is expected to completed by the end of the day Friday. 

To avoid congestion, students should consider biking, walking or scootering to school, while parents should consider staggered pickup times or alternate places close to the school to pick up their kids.

'Your student's safety remains our top priority," Collins said. "In addition to the regular crossing guard, an additional traffic monitor from the construction company will be at the intersection in the afternoon." 

Much of the far right line of eastbound Ygnacio Valley Road was coned off Thursday past Walnut Boulevard up to the western entrance of Montego Drive. A PG&E crew was working on one portion of the sidewalk next to the far right lane. 

Flashing signs warned that traffic could be heavy next week from Monday to Thursday.