For Los Angeles commuters, the 405 Freeway is more than just a highway. It’s the lifeline that connects major neighborhoods and keeps the city moving. Carrying over 300,000 vehicles daily, the 405 Freeway is one of the busiest roadways in the United States. But now, with construction in the Sepulveda Pass, drivers are facing some of the most significant traffic disruptions in years.

Since June, Caltrans has been working on what it calls the I-405 Pavement Rehabilitation Project—a $143.7 million initiative aimed at improving safety and extending the freeway’s lifespan. While the goal is long-term improvement, the short-term impact on drivers is undeniable.

“Whenever the 405 slows down, the entire city feels it,” said a transportation analyst familiar with the project. “This isn’t just about one neighborhood. It affects commuters, travelers, and the movement of goods across Los Angeles.”

Story Highlights

• 405 Freeway carries over 300,000 vehicles every day

• I-405 Pavement Rehabilitation Project: $143.7 million investment

• Extended Weekend Closures continue until mid-2026

• Closures run Friday night to early Monday morning

• Detour routes: Sepulveda Boulevard and alternate streets

• Caltrans posts official updates online and on social media

The most challenging aspect of the project is the Extended Weekend Closures. According to Caltrans, these closures typically start on Friday night and last until early Monday morning, shutting down multiple lanes and on-ramps along the 405 Freeway.

“These closures are necessary to complete major pavement work that can’t be done during short overnight shifts,” explained a Caltrans spokesperson. “The goal is to create a smoother and safer driving experience for everyone.”

Closures are scheduled about twice a month, and this pattern will continue until mid-2026, as reported by Patch. That means Los Angeles drivers should prepare for more traffic headaches, often compared to the notorious ‘Carmageddon’ weekends of the past.

How to Avoid the Worst Traffic on the 405 Freeway

For those who can’t avoid the area, planning ahead is critical. Traffic experts recommend using parallel routes like Sepulveda Boulevard or shifting travel to non-peak hours whenever possible.

“Public transit is also a good option,” said one local commuter who has started taking the Metro during closure weekends. “It’s not perfect, but it beats sitting on the 405 for hours.”

Above all, the best advice is simple: avoid the 405 during closure weekends unless absolutely necessary. A little advance planning can save hours of frustration.

Stay Updated with Official Caltrans Alerts

Because the closure schedule can change due to weather or operational needs, drivers should always check for updates. Caltrans has not finalized all closure dates far in advance, so announcements come in the days and weeks leading up to each event.

Real-time updates, detour maps, and official notices are available on the Caltrans website and social media channels. Following these sources is the best way to stay informed and avoid unnecessary gridlock.

The 405 Freeway closures are not just routine maintenance—they’re part of a massive, long-term project to ensure one of Los Angeles’ busiest highways remains safe and functional for decades to come. While the I-405 Pavement Rehabilitation Project will bring improved driving conditions, the next two years will demand patience and planning from drivers.

With Extended Weekend Closures scheduled twice a month until mid-2026, commuters should stay informed, consider alternate routes like Sepulveda Boulevard, or use public transit whenever possible. For real-time updates and official detour maps, following Caltrans alerts online is essential.

In the end, a little planning today can save hours of gridlock tomorrow—and make surviving these 405 Freeway closures just a bit easier.

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