I-5 Express Lanes Project

Caltrans and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) have identified the Express Lanes Only (8+4 with Buffer/Striping) option as the Locally Preferred Alternative for the I-5 Express Lanes Project after extensive public outreach and consideration of input from the community and resource agencies. This option would add two Express Lanes in each direction from La Jolla to Oceanside, separated from the existing general purpose lanes by a painted, striped buffer. The Express Lanes will accommodate carpools, vanpools, and single occupancy vehicles using FasTrak®. The project will ensure a reliable travel time along the length of the corridor and provide transportation flexibility to accommodate future demands.

Of the build alternatives studied in the project’s Draft Environmental Impact Report, all of which were a significant improvement over the existing condition, the Locally Preferred Alternative offers the appropriate balance of benefits and costs to the environment and community. The Locally Preferred Alternative meets the purpose and need of the project; has the least impacts to natural resources; requires the fewest property relocations; and has the lowest construction costs.