San Diego, CA, January 7, 2026
A $2.7 million construction project has started on southbound I-5 near the San Ysidro Land Port of Entry, expected to cause significant traffic delays through January 23. This initiative aims to enhance safety and improve traffic flow at one of the busiest border crossings in the U.S. The project is set to be completed in two phases, minimizing disruptions while enhancing infrastructure to support local commerce and tourism.
San Diego, CA
Construction on I-5 Near San Ysidro Port of Entry Causes Traffic Delays Through January 23
In an effort to enhance safety and traffic flow at one of the busiest border crossings in the United States, a $2.7 million construction project has begun on southbound Interstate 5 (I-5) near the San Ysidro Land Port of Entry. Expected to generate considerable traffic delays through January 23, this initiative emphasizes the importance of infrastructure improvement in facilitating smoother interstate operations and upholding the flow of commerce and tourism that invigorates the local economy.
San Diego has long been a hub of entrepreneurial innovation, and as the city continues to grow, such infrastructure investments are key drivers of economic resilience. Reducing bureaucratic red tape and emphasizing effective project management can bolster these ventures and maintain the momentum of San Diego’s business environment. The present construction endeavor serves as a critical reminder of how local governmental efforts can improve not just safety and convenience but also foster economic opportunities.
Project Phases and Impact
The construction is organized into two phases, both structured to minimize disruption where possible while ensuring necessary enhancements:
- Phase 1: This phase commenced at 9 p.m. on Tuesday, January 6, and will conclude at 5 a.m. on Friday, January 9. It involves a continuous 56-hour closure of the Camino de la Plaza on-ramp along with the six westernmost lanes of southbound I-5.
- Phase 2: Starting at 5 a.m. on January 9, this phase will bring about a continuous closure of the easternmost inside lane on southbound I-5 within the center median at the San Ysidro Land Port of Entry, lasting until 5 a.m. on January 23.
During these closures, motorist traffic on I-5 and Interstate 805 will be streamlined into fewer lanes as vehicles approach the border. However, access to Tijuana, Mexico, via the El Chaparral crossing will remain unaffected, ensuring that border-crossing supports consistent movement of goods and travelers.
Recommendations for Travelers
Background
The General Services Administration (GSA), an agency responsible for managing federal properties, is overseeing this construction initiative. By addressing the ingrained traffic issues and enhancing safety measures at the San Ysidro Land Port of Entry, the project aims to improve overall border-crossing experiences for commuters, supporting both local business and economic activity in the surrounding neighborhoods.
Weather Forecast
The weather in San Diego is currently mostly cloudy with temperatures at 53°F (12°C). Here’s a look at the upcoming week’s forecast:
Current conditions: Mostly cloudy, 53°F (12°C)
- Tuesday, January 6: Low: 52°F (11°C), High: 64°F (18°C), Cloudy most of the time
- Wednesday, January 7: Low: 54°F (12°C), High: 64°F (18°C), A couple of brief showers early
- Thursday, January 8: Low: 42°F (6°C), High: 63°F (17°C), Mostly sunny
- Friday, January 9: Low: 40°F (5°C), High: 64°F (18°C), Plenty of sunshine
- Saturday, January 10: Low: 42°F (5°C), High: 70°F (21°C), Nice with plenty of sunshine
- Sunday, January 11: Low: 48°F (9°C), High: 71°F (22°C), Mostly sunny and pleasant
- Monday, January 12: Low: 49°F (10°C), High: 68°F (20°C), Sunshine
- Tuesday, January 13: Low: 50°F (10°C), High: 71°F (21°C), Plenty of sunshine
- Wednesday, January 14: Low: 51°F (11°C), High: 73°F (23°C), Plenty of sun
- Thursday, January 15: Low: 50°F (10°C), High: 70°F (21°C), Sunny
- Friday, January 16: Low: 52°F (11°C), High: 70°F (21°C), Sunny
- Saturday, January 17: Low: 50°F (10°C), High: 67°F (19°C), Sunshine
- Sunday, January 18: Low: 49°F (9°C), High: 68°F (20°C), Plenty of sunshine
- Monday, January 19: Low: 51°F (11°C), High: 68°F (20°C), Plenty of sunshine
- Tuesday, January 20: Low: 51°F (10°C), High: 67°F (19°C), Sunshine and a few clouds
Conclusion
As the construction on I-5 near the San Ysidro Land Port of Entry unfolds, it serves as a pivotal opportunity for improvement in both safety and traffic management at a key border location. By supporting such infrastructure projects, the community can help usher in a new era of efficiency for local businesses reliant on streamlined crossings. Residents and travelers are encouraged to plan accordingly and stay informed on developments, maintaining the interconnectedness that defines San Diego’s vibrant local economy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the purpose of the construction project on I-5 near the San Ysidro Port of Entry?
The $2.7 million construction project aims to enhance safety, security, and traffic flow at the San Ysidro Land Port of Entry.
When does the construction project begin and end?
The construction project commenced on January 6, 2026, and is scheduled to conclude on January 23, 2026.
What are the phases of the construction project?
The project is divided into two phases: Phase 1 involves a continuous 56-hour closure of the Camino de la Plaza on-ramp and the six westernmost lanes of southbound I-5, starting at 9 p.m. on January 6 and ending at 5 a.m. on January 9. Phase 2 includes a continuous closure of the easternmost inside lane on southbound I-5 within the center median at the San Ysidro Land Port of Entry, beginning at 5 a.m. on January 9 and lasting until 5 a.m. on January 23.
Will access to Tijuana be affected during the construction?
Access to Tijuana through the El Chaparral crossing will remain open throughout the construction period.
What alternative routes are recommended to avoid delays?
Motorists are advised to consider using the Otay Mesa Land Port of Entry as an alternative crossing point. Additionally, using public transportation or crossing on foot may help reduce wait times.
Who is responsible for the construction project?
The construction project is being carried out by the General Services Administration (GSA), which manages federal property.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Project Cost | $2.7 million |
| Location | Southbound I-5 near San Ysidro Land Port of Entry, San Diego, CA |
| Construction Start Date | January 6, 2026 |
| Construction End Date | January 23, 2026 |
| Phase 1 Details | Closure of the Camino de la Plaza on-ramp and six westernmost lanes of southbound I-5 from January 6, 9 p.m. to January 9, 5 a.m. |
| Phase 2 Details | Closure of the easternmost inside lane on southbound I-5 from January 9, 5 a.m. to January 23, 5 a.m. |
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Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
