Commuter's Cajon Pass Info Hub Thrives

Michael Thielen launched 'Pain In The Pass,' a Facebook group and website, to combat the information void surrounding the Cajon Pass on Interstate 15. This critical route, used by approximately 160,000 vehicles daily, is notorious for heavy traffic and was named the deadliest segment of road in California last year. The group now boasts over 166,000 members, offering crucial real-time updates on traffic conditions, accidents, and weather.

The Cajon Pass, a roughly 5-mile section with steep grades, connects the high desert region to job centers in Southern California. Decades of growth in cities like Victorville have amplified traffic, with travel demand expected to nearly double by 2030. This surge, coupled with a significant increase in large trucks, exacerbates existing delays and accident rates, making it a daily struggle for commuters.

Thielen's initiative provides essential details for commuters, helping them navigate the pass more effectively and mitigate time lost in gridlock. Despite the daily challenges and the growing housing crisis driving longer commutes, 'Pain In The Pass' has become a vital resource, offering a sense of community and crucial information for those traveling this essential but often dreaded corridor.