Planned to help increase capacity, improve operations and enhance safety in south Orange County, the I-5 South County Improvements Project is being built in three distinct segments, with each segment spanning approximately two miles. Construction on the second segment began mid-2019 and construction has been underway on the first segment since March 2020. OCTA and Caltrans are working together on the $580 million widening project.
At the beginning of the year, construction began on the third segment. Crews have been removing trees and shrubs along I-5 within the Caltrans right-of-way, as well as placing equipment, K-rail and signage in preparation of the freeway widening and improvements. Atkinson Construction was awarded the construction contract for this segment and is working with OCTA and Caltrans to complete the project.
An online community meeting is taking place on Wednesday, February 10, at 5:30 p.m. to highlight project improvements and upcoming construction activities in the third and final segment. Registration information is available here.
Construction on the third segment between Alicia Parkway and El Toro Road is expected to be completed in late 2024. Improvements in this area include widening both northbound and southbound lanes; extending the second carpool lane from Alicia Parkway to El Toro Road in both directions; converting the carpool lanes to continuous access; widening the Los Alisos bridge; and modifying on- and off-ramps at Alicia Parkway and El Toro Road.
Find more information about the I-5 South County Improvements Project here.