OCTA, in cooperation with Caltrans, is improving I-5 between SR-73 and El Toro Road. The 6.5-mile project extends through Mission Viejo, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Hills, and Lake Forest and is being constructed in three segments.
The project reached a major milestone in November with the completion of all significant construction activities in Segment 2, which stretches from Oso Parkway to Alicia Parkway.
Key project improvements include adding a regular lane in each direction from Avery Parkway to Alicia, converting carpool lanes to continuous access, extending the second carpool lane from Alicia to El Toro Road in both directions, and adding new and reestablishing existing auxiliary lanes.
In Segment 2, the La Paz interchange was reconstructed. Work was conducted in three phases to allow La Paz to remain open to traffic during construction, though the final phase required a creative solution to ensure minimum clearance for traffic. Crews built the bridge approximately 2.5 feet higher than its final height to accommodate the temporary system of steel beams and timber used to support the bridge during construction.
Once completed, a team of 20 carpenters using 18 jacks lowered the 3-million-pound bridge section into place over eight hours. The improved interchange now features new bike lanes, sidewalks and improved access to I-5 on- and off-ramps.
The I-5 South County Improvements Project is 90% complete and anticipated to be fully completed in early 2025.