Evening Lane Closures on I-5 Southbound at Gilman Drive Scheduled for Friday Night

Major Highway Alert: I-5 Southbound Lane Reductions

Commuters heading south through the La Jolla and University City areas this evening should prepare for significant disruptions. Caltrans has announced that the I-5 Asset Management Project team will close three of the four lanes on southbound Interstate 5 at Gilman Drive. These closures are scheduled to begin at 7:00 p.m. today, Friday, February 27, and will continue through 11:00 a.m. Saturday morning.

In addition to the mainlane reductions, the on-and-off ramps at Gilman Drive will also be closed during this period. Caltrans officials advise motorists to utilize Interstate 805 as an alternative route to bypass the expected bottleneck. Drivers who remain on I-5 past the I-805 merge should expect heavy delays as traffic is funneled into a single open lane to accommodate necessary bridge work. Portable message signs have been deployed throughout the corridor to provide real-time guidance.

Public Transit: Blue Line Single-Tracking and Bus Stop Changes

San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) riders should take note of several service adjustments taking effect today. For those using the UC San Diego Blue Line, single-tracking will occur between the 8th Street and E Street stations starting at 9:00 p.m. tonight. While the Trolley will maintain its standard 15-minute frequency, minor delays are anticipated. Passengers at the affected stations must use the eastbound platform for all boarding.

Several bus route modifications are also in place for Friday commutes:

• Route 7: The temporary closure of the stop at Front Street and B Street concludes today at 4:00 p.m. Until then, riders are directed to use the stop at Broadway and 3rd Avenue.
• Route 11: The bus stop at University Avenue and 3rd Avenue remains closed through 6:00 p.m. today due to sidewalk repairs.
• Routes 1, 10, and 11: The stop at westbound University Avenue and Vermont Street remains closed long-term; passengers should use the connection at University and 9th Avenue.

Regional Commute Improvements

On a positive note for North County commuters, MTS has recently implemented a $2 million service boost that remains in effect today. This includes increased frequency for the Rapid 235 line, which now runs every 15 minutes during midday hours between Escondido and Downtown San Diego via the I-15 Express Lanes. Additionally, the new South Bay Rapid service and the Otay Mesa Transit Center are fully operational, providing enhanced options for cross-border and South County travelers.

Commuters are encouraged to allow for an extra 15 to 20 minutes of travel time if their route includes the southbound I-5 corridor this evening. Local residents near Gilman Drive and La Jolla Colony Drive should also anticipate increased construction noise and lighting throughout the night.