🚧 Los Angeles 405 Freeway Upgrade: Major Roadwork Continues Through Sepulveda Pass

🚧 Los Angeles 405 Freeway Upgrade:

Major Roadwork Continues Through Sepulveda PassLOS ANGELES, California — Drivers using the 405 Freeway through the Sepulveda Pass are facing an extended period of construction as California transportation officials continue a major pavement rehabilitation project designed to improve road conditions, safety and mobility along one of Los Angeles’ busiest freeway corridors.The project covers approximately 10.2 miles of Interstate 405 between the San Fernando Valley and West Los Angeles. Caltrans says the overall program is expected to cost about $143.7 million.The work extends from Victory Boulevard in the San Fernando Valley to Wilshire Boulevard in West Los Angeles, with significant pavement replacement and repairs taking place along the route.What is being upgraded?This is primarily a pavement rehabilitation project, rather than a freeway-widening project. Caltrans says sections of two lanes in each direction between Victory Boulevard and Mulholland Drive will be replaced, while other portions of the freeway will receive pavement repairs.Across the project limits, nearly 92 lane miles are expected to be restored or rehabilitated.The work also includes:- Replacement and repair of freeway pavement- Upgrades to approximately 6,400 feet of metal beam guardrail- Replacement of 98 roadside sign panels- Replacement of two overhead sign structures- Improvements to 10 ADA-compliant curb ramps- Repairs to bridge approach and departure slabs- Improvements to culverts- Upgrades to portions of the freeway’s fiber-optic communications system- New maintenance vehicle pullouts for worker safetyDrivers should expect changing traffic conditionsFor motorists, the biggest impact will be changing lane configurations and periodic ramp closures as construction moves through different sections of the freeway.Caltrans has already scheduled extended weekend work during 2026. For example, on September 25–28, 2026, southbound I-405 is scheduled to be reduced to three lanes between Ventura Boulevard and Mulholland Drive, with several nearby ramps also scheduled to close.The agency warns that construction schedules can change because of weather and operational conditions.Drivers are encouraged to check current road conditions before traveling through the construction zone.Temporary 55 mph speed limitSome sections of the Sepulveda Pass have also received temporary speed reductions while paving work is underway.Caltrans says the temporary speed limit in certain construction sections is 55 mph, with the reduced limit expected to remain in place as paving progresses. Motorists may also encounter uneven pavement and changing lane conditions.The agency is advising drivers to slow down and remain alert around construction crews.Why the project mattersThe 405 is a critical transportation route connecting the San Fernando Valley, West Los Angeles and other major parts of the Los Angeles region.Thousands of commuters use the freeway every day, making road maintenance particularly important. The current project is intended to extend the useful life of the pavement while improving safety features and the overall driving surface.Caltrans says the project is expected to continue through the coming construction period, with completion timing subject to changes in the work schedule and field conditions.What Los Angeles drivers should knowThe project does not mean the 405 is being widened as part of this particular rehabilitation program. Instead, crews are repairing and replacing existing infrastructure.That means drivers should prepare for lane reductions, overnight work, ramp closures, construction equipment and slower traffic in affected areas.For people traveling through the Sepulveda Pass, checking traffic conditions before leaving and allowing additional travel time may help avoid unexpected delays.405 Freeway Project at a GlanceItem| DetailsLocation| I-405, Sepulveda Pass, Los AngelesProject length| Approximately 10.2 milesCorridor| Victory Boulevard to Wilshire BoulevardEstimated cost| $143.7 millionMain work| Pavement rehabilitation and safety improvementsLane rehabilitation| Nearly 92 lane milesGuardrail upgrades| About 6,400 feetSign panels| 98ADA curb ramps| 10Current impact| Lane reductions and periodic ramp closuresBottom line: The 405 Freeway project is a long-term road rehabilitation effort rather than a freeway expansion. While construction may create delays and changing traffic patterns, Caltrans says the goal is to restore pavement, improve safety features and extend the life of the existing roadway.

Source: California Department of Transportation (Caltrans)