The 405 Freeway is one of the busiest highways in the United States, carrying more than 300,000 vehicles a day through Los Angeles. It connects major neighborhoods and serves as a critical artery for commuters, travelers, and goods moving across the region. When the freeway slows down, the entire city feels the impact. That’s why ongoing construction in the Sepulveda Pass has become such a major concern for drivers.
Since June, Caltrans has been working on the I-405 Pavement Rehabilitation Project, a $143.7 million effort to improve safety and extend the lifespan of the freeway. The biggest disruptions come in the form of “Extended Weekend Closures,” when multiple lanes and ramps are shut down from Friday night until early Monday morning. These closures happen roughly twice a month and are expected to continue until mid-2026, as reported by Patch, meaning Angelenos should brace for more carmageddon-like weekends.
For drivers, the key is knowing how to avoid the worst delays. Whenever possible, plan alternate routes using parallel streets such as Sepulveda Boulevard, or shift travel to non-peak hours. Public transit may also help ease the stress, particularly for those heading into West L.A. Above all, the best advice is to avoid the 405 during closure weekends unless absolutely necessary. A little planning ahead can save hours stuck in gridlock.
Because the schedule is subject to change due to weather and operational needs, it’s important to stay informed. Caltrans has not finalized every weekend closure in advance, so announcements are made in the days and weeks leading up to each event. Official updates can be found on Caltrans website and social media channels, which post maps, detours, and real-time alerts.