Fillmore News: County Plans Emergency Stabilization of Storm-Damaged Old Telegraph Road Bridge

FILLMORE NEWS | ORIGINAL LOCAL REPORT · OCTOBER 2026

Ventura County filed a January 16, 2026 emergency project notice to address damage at Old Telegraph Road Bridge No. 485 near Fillmore. A December 2025 storm undermined the bridge’s northwest abutment, exposing structural piles and prompting work aimed at restoring a safe crossing.

What officials have documented

According to the county, floodwater scoured material from around the abutment and exposed three steel beam piles. The repair plan calls for rock slope protection around the affected foundation to reduce further erosion and stabilize the crossing. The county described its purpose as returning the bridge to service as soon as practical, subject to safe conditions.

Why this matters to the community

In a largely agricultural area, damage to a smaller road bridge can affect nearby residents, deliveries, access to services and emergency vehicles. The project was designated an emergency repair under the California Environmental Quality Act. This status does not prove construction has finished or that traffic can cross the bridge today.

How to follow the project

Fillmore News will follow official county road announcements, inspection findings and any public reopening notice. Travelers should use current roadway alerts, not the original January filing, to determine whether the crossing is open. Residents with photographs, records or corrections can send them to the newsroom.

Original government source

Ventura County — Old Telegraph Road Bridge Emergency Repairs, January 2026.

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