Caltrans officials say they need to remove damaged rock walls that were built back in 1939 and replace them with a barrier that meets current safety standards.

"They are starting to deteriorate and kind of fall apart and they're not doing their job so we will be taking care of that."

Deanna Shoopman with Caltrans says the job will take about two-weeks beginning in mid-to-late April. The agency will put up electronic message signs giving directions for alternate routes.

Shoopman puts a positive spin on the detours…

"…takes you about an additional hour to your trip. It's a beautiful scenic route and great history - gold mines, all kinds of good things to visit."

Work on the $3 million project will be done by the Rancho Cordova based contractor C.C. Meyers Incorporated.