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2d ago

Temporary Crossing Reopens Access to Lytle Creek’s Happy Jack After Storm Washout

Engineers deemed the earthen crossing safe, prompting a cautious shift to recovery.

Ignocio Ramirez finds relief from scorching temperatures standing in the refreshing waters of Lytle Creek, just north of San Bernardino on Wednesday, July 26, 2023.
Crews work in Lytle Creek at Happy Jack’s bridge to restore access to the community.
Crews work in Lytle Creek at Happy Jack’s bridge to restore access to the community.
The bridge on Sycamore Drive, the sole entry point into the Happy Jack neighborhood in Lytle Creek, was destroyed Wednesday, Dec. 24, by a severe storm. (Photo by Don Parrington)

Overview

  • San Bernardino County Public Works reopened the Sycamore Drive access on Dec. 29 after inspectors found the temporary earthen crossing structurally sound, with travel limited to essential trips.
  • The Christmas week storm washed out 20 to 30 feet of roadway at the bridge, cutting off roughly 250 to 280 residents in Happy Jack, including elderly and disabled people who could not cross on foot.
  • Fire crews hiked in to deliver water, generators and aid during the closure, and distribution centers in Lytle Creek, Phelan and Wrightwood remain open to support residents.
  • Officials report significant property damage, with an estimated 30 homes red-tagged in Happy Jack and an earlier unofficial count of about 50 severely damaged homes across affected mountain communities.
  • Damage assessments were completed Dec. 28 with figures expected as early as Jan. 2, and authorities are preparing for additional rainfall heading into New Year’s as cleanup and drainage work continue.