Stocktonians can expect Interstate Highway 5 traffic shifts in the coming months after the California Department of Transportation (CalTrans) shifted lanes on Sunday night. The affected area is between Hammer Lane and Eight Mile Road.
The shift is part of the I-5 Pavement Anchor Project. Approved in March of 2024, the project is meant to rehabilitate I-5 in and near Stockton. The portion of the highway being address travels from Hammer Lane undercrossing to the Sacramento County line.
The project plans to replace pavement, repair infrastructure and improve mobility, according to the CalTrans site. The estimated total cost of completion is $123,378,000.
During stage five, at least three lanes need to be open during the daytime, according to CalTrans Public Information Officer Skip Allum. However, that rule is more flexible at night, when fewer lanes may be open.
“They need to keep three lanes open in each direction. That’s why you see the traffic lanes shifting,” Allum said. “Some southbound lanes shift into what are normally the northbound lanes.”
There are nine project stages, each lasting an estimated 13-62 working days, the CalTrans site says. These days are only estimates and only count days people are working on the project, which could vary based on weather and other factors.
Motorists should expect 5-10 minute traffic delays during this stage. The stage is expected to be completed in October, CalTrans wrote in a press release published last week.
On the road, Allum cautions motorists to be alert and aware of warnings and signage.
“Unfortunately, no matter how many signs we put up there, sometimes people get distracted or they just don’t follow the rules,” Allum said.
On the road, there are plenty of warning signs before the traffic shift begins. Drivers are told to slow down and prepare for the change. Speed detectors and raised dots have also been placed in the area.
In addition to staying alert, drivers can prepare by planning out trips beforehand with the CalTrans real-time traffic information service.
“CalTrans has something called QuickMap and you can download that to your phone or look at it on your computer,” Allum said. “That shows real-time traffic, where work is being done, CHP (California Highway Patrol) incidents and all this information.”
Quick Map is available on mobile and desktop devices. Drivers can also refer to the CalTrans website and social media pages for traffic updates.
