Montecito Fire Engine Placed south of Highway 101 Widening Project

MONTECITO, Calif. - The Montecito Fire Department has temporarily placed a small fire engine south of the Highway 101 widening project to ensure adequate response times.

The Department says construction on the highway, installation of two roundabouts, and the closure of the San Ysidro Road overcrossing have caused congestion in the area.

"Yeah, it has slowed down some of our freeway responses," said Travis Ederer, Montecito Fire Division Chief. "Our operations on to the freeway have had to change a little bit and coordinate more with our adjoining agencies."

Montecito Fire Chief David Neels says as the construction process continues, the department will continually reassess its plans to prevent any delays in emergency service.

In addition to the small fire engine, Engine 691, a temporary housing unit for two firefighters will be stationed near the Biltmore property.

Engine 691 will remain in service through August 22. According to CalTrans, the San Ysidro Road Overcrossing will reopen on August 22 ahead of local schools resuming classes on August 24.