Today it's hard to picture Eastlake without the 125, but the community existed for about 20 years before the freeway opened.
Getting Around in 1987
When we moved to Eastlake in 1987, there was no 125 freeway. To head west, we relied on East H Street, Telegraph Canyon Road and Otay Lakes Road.
The South Bay Expressway Opens
The South Bay Expressway, State Route 125, finally opened in 2007. Today I use it all the time. With FasTrak, my short trip between Birch Road and East H Street cost only 50 cents when I made this video.
Then and Now
The 125 changed everyday life in Eastlake and made commuting across the South Bay much easier. If you're thinking about a move and want to know how a neighborhood fits your daily drive, my neighborhood guides are a good place to start.
Do you remember Eastlake before the 125? Should it remain a toll road or become free? Tell me what you think.
