SUNOL, CA (AP).- The American flag mural painted on concrete siding above Northern California freeway, then painted over by order of state officials, was returned to its former glory just in time for 4th of July.

The 35-foot long flag had been painted above Interstate 680 in Sunol, in clear view of commuters, by three men after the 9/11 attacks on New York and Washington.

Caltrans officials determined last month that it was on state property and ordered it covered with gray paint, igniting a public furor. Two days later, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger apologized to the artists for the officials' decision.

On Saturday, two men decided to restore the mural. Steve Giordano and Jim Gallagher said they thought it was rude of Caltrans officials to cover up the flag right before the 4th of July.


Copyright 2010 The Associated Press.