Reminder! Southbound I-5 Traffic to Shift on San Elijo Lagoon Highway Bridge Tomorrow

Tomorrow night, Wednesday, February 5, traffic will shift on southbound Interstate 5 (I-5) toward the outside of the San Elijo Lagoon highway bridge in the City of Encinitas. This temporary shift is the first in a series of shifts announced last week by Caltrans and SANDAG along an eight-mile stretch of I-5 between Encinitas and Oceanside over the next few months as part of the Build NCC I-5 improvements. ​

The same number of lanes will remain after the Wednesday night shift; however, motorists will experience a curve over the San Elijo Lagoon highway bridge. In addition, some lanes of traffic will be closed Wednesday night, beginning at 8 p.m. and ending at 5 a.m., but no full freeway closures are planned. Motorists should expect delays and are encouraged to consider alternate routes along I-15, avoiding Manchester Avenue at I-5. 

Next week, beginning the evening of Monday, February 10, through the evening of Wednesday, February 12, crews will work to shift northbound I-5 traffic. Please note, construction schedules are subject to change.

The San Elijo Lagoon highway bridge is being lengthened and widened. It will improve tidal flow in the lagoon and accommodate one new High-Occupancy Vehicle (HOV)/carpool lane in each direction, between Lomas Santa Fe Drive and State Route 78. These improvements are part of the larger SANDAG and Caltrans Build NCC construction program to improve transportation choices and quality of life throughout San Diego County. 

All motorists are reminded to Drive 55 on the 5 in the Build NCC construction zone for their safety and the safety of construction crews. Enhanced "Motorist Aid" is also available during daytime and weekday hours to help stranded vehicles get back on the highway. Simply call 5-1-1 anywhere in San Diego County and say “Roadside Assistance.” 

Thank you for your patience during construction!