Caltrans and SANDAG Build NCC crews are reaching a new milestone that marks the continuation of the first phase of the North Coast Corridor Program, Build NCC, along Interstate 5 (I-5). This Fall, crews break ground on four miles of new Carpool/ High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Lanes – one in each direction on I-5 from Palomar Airport Road in the City of Carlsbad to State Route 78 (SR 78) in the City of Oceanside.

As part of the Carlsbad to Oceanside Carpool/HOV extension project, Caltrans District 11 will be piloting temporary orange lane striping within the construction zone. Highly visible orange lane striping is used to enhance construction work zone awareness and distinguish the proper travel path for motorists, especially when they enter and exit a construction work zone on the highway. Most notably, this color contrast will increase safety for both drivers and crews, by alerting oncoming traffic of the construction zone and reduced 55 mph speed limit. Safety is of utmost importance for Caltrans and SANDAG as crews begin to work on the highway, within feet of fast-moving traffic.

The public is advised that construction work may require lane closures from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. Sunday to Friday. Motorists can expect to see temporary concrete barriers along the inner shoulder since most construction activity will occur in the median area of the freeway. The concrete barriers , or k-rail, allow construction crews to operate safely.

In addition, the Carlsbad to Oceanside Carpool/HOV extension project includes multiple community enhancements to increase connectivity of our region, a key component of Build NCC. The Build NCC project features the addition of the seven-mile North Coast Bike Trail and safer pedestrian and cyclist crossings at San Elijo Lagoon, Chesterfield Drive and the I-5 interchanges at Encinitas Boulevard and Santa Fe Drive.

Build NCC is an example of projects proposed in the 2021 Regional Plan. The draft 2021 Regional Plan outlines the key strategies, projects, and priorities being explored to enhance the region’s transportation, equity, and climate action goals through a more connected transportation network for all San Diegans.

For further information, visit KeepSanDiegoMoving.com/BuildNCC