Late-Night Closures on I-805 and SR-54; Local Detours for Hillcrest Farmers Market

Sunday Morning Traffic Overview

San Diego commuters can expect a relatively smooth Sunday morning across most major arteries, though several planned maintenance projects and local events will require attention as the day progresses. While early morning traffic remains light, residents in South County and Hillcrest should prepare for specific detours and nightly closures beginning this evening, March 1, 2026.

Major Highway Alerts: South County Construction

Caltrans has announced significant nightly construction operations beginning tonight. Starting at 9:00 p.m., the northbound and southbound I-805 off-ramps at Telegraph Canyon Road will be closed, along with the I-805 on-ramp at the same location. Additionally, southbound I-805 at Bonita Road will see closures during these hours.

A more substantial closure begins at 10:30 p.m. tonight, affecting the connector from westbound State Route 54 (SR-54) to southbound Interstate 805. During this time, Telegraph Canyon Road will also be closed in both directions between Nacion Avenue and Halecrest Drive. These nightly closures are expected to last through Thursday morning. Motorists heading westbound on SR-54 are advised to exit at Highland Avenue, turn left to reach the eastbound SR-54, and then access the southbound I-805 connector from there.

Public Transit and Local Road Closures

In Hillcrest, the weekly Farmers Market will necessitate the closure of University Avenue in both directions between Herbert Street and Park Boulevard. This closure remains in effect from 5:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. today. San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) has confirmed that Bus Routes 1 and 11 are currently on detour. Passengers should use stops at University Avenue and Richmond Street or Park Boulevard and University Avenue to avoid delays.

Additionally, passengers on Route 13 should note that the southbound bus stop at El Cajon Boulevard and 43rd Street is temporarily closed due to ongoing construction. This closure is part of a long-term project expected to continue through April.

Event Traffic and Seasonal Openings

Traffic in North County may be heavier than usual on Interstate 5 near Carlsbad as The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch officially open for the 2026 season today. Expect increased exit volume at Palomar Airport Road and Cannon Road throughout the afternoon.

In the Mid-City and Mission Valley areas, traffic will likely increase around 4:00 p.m. due to a professional volleyball match between San Diego Mojo and Columbus Fury at Viejas Arena. Simultaneously, the USA Basketball World Cup Qualifier at Frontwave Arena is expected to draw crowds, potentially slowing traffic on State Route 78 near Oceanside.

Safety Reminders

As today marks the beginning of National Pedestrian Safety Month, local authorities remind drivers to remain vigilant for foot traffic, particularly in busy coastal areas and near the Hillcrest Farmers Market. Caltrans also notes that this week is Women in Construction Week, and motorists should stay alert for workers near active work zones tonight as the new phase of I-805 maintenance begins.