If you’re planning to hit the road this weekend, you might want to rethink your route. A significant 55-hour closure of the westbound 210 Freeway in Sylmar is set to disrupt traffic, starting Friday evening and lasting through early Monday morning. This closure is part of an ambitious infrastructure replacement project designed to improve one of Southern California’s busiest highways.
The closure will kick off at 10 p.m. on Friday and run until 5 a.m. Monday, according to Caltrans. The affected stretch spans the westbound 210 Freeway from the I-5 interchange to Roxford Street. Along with the main freeway lanes, several ramps and interchanges will also be inaccessible, including:
- Westbound Polk Street on-ramp
- Westbound Roxford Street on-ramp
- Westbound Yarnell Street on- and off-ramps
- Interchange from westbound 210 to the I-5 Freeway
- Eastbound Paxton Street off-ramp
These closures are necessary to facilitate a $135.5 million pavement replacement project, aimed at replacing all lanes between Wheatland Avenue and the I-5.
Alternate Routes and Advice for Drivers
Caltrans officials recommend using the 118 Freeway as an alternate route to bypass the construction zone. Travelers are advised to plan ahead and allow for extra travel time, as detours may cause delays.
For those living or working near the construction site, the agency has issued a heads-up regarding possible noise, vibrations, and dust during the weekend. “We’re committed to completing these improvements efficiently, but we understand this may temporarily impact nearby residents,” said a Caltrans spokesperson.
This major renovation project aims to improve the durability and safety of the freeway by replacing aging pavement with more robust materials. The 210 Freeway serves as a vital link for commuters and freight traffic alike, making this $135.5-million upgrade essential to the region’s transportation infrastructure.
“By investing in these improvements, we’re ensuring smoother travel for years to come,” noted the spokesperson. “We appreciate everyone’s patience as we work to enhance this critical stretch of freeway.”
What to Expect This Weekend
While closures of this magnitude are no picnic for drivers, Caltrans is taking every precaution to minimize disruption. All closures are weather-dependent and subject to last-minute adjustments. If rain or other unforeseen conditions arise, the timeline could shift.
Drivers should keep the following tips in mind:
- Plan ahead and choose alternate routes like the 118 Freeway.
- Check for real-time updates on the Caltrans website or traffic apps.
- Avoid non-essential travel through the Sylmar area during the closure.
Stay informed and stay safe on the roads this weekend!