KERNVILLE, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) Highway 178 remains closed at both ends of the canyon because of the River Fire, raising concerns for businesses in the Kern River Valley as Memorial Day weekend approaches.
With the holiday just days away, business owners say the closure could keep visitors from making the trip.
Cheryl Borthick, owner of Cheryl’s Diner, said, “So we’re hoping it gets out pretty soon. There’s been all kinds of issues that have blocked people from coming up here in the last few years.”
Highway 178 closure from River Fire could threaten Kern River Valley Memorial Day business (KBAK/KBFX)
The closure has limited access through the canyon, and Borthick said business owners are already seeing fewer people.
“Well, we’re hoping that the fire gets out and people can come up the canyon,” she said.
Even with Highway 178 closed, travelers can take other routes to reach places like Kernville, but it will add extra time to the drive.
Hailey Mroczkowski, who works at Sequia Mountain Bakery, said, “I went into town to Bakersfield yesterday and I had to go all the way around its maybe an hour different.”
Still, locals in Kernville said the longer drive is worth it for the holiday weekend.
“It’s worth it. We’re going to have a beautiful weekend this weekend,” Mroczkowski said.
Highway 178 closure from River Fire could threaten Kern River Valley Memorial Day business (KBAK/KBFX)
She added, “We’re probably going to have booths set up all around town that they can shop and have a little fun with.”
Highway 178 closure from River Fire could threaten Kern River Valley Memorial Day business (KBAK/KBFX)
The roadway is expected to remain closed through at least Tuesday night as crews continue working to put the fire out.