The I-105 ExpressLanes Project has broken ground in L.A.! The plan is to facilitate better traffic flow along the I-105 freeway by converting the existing carpool lanes into two ExpressLanes in each direction. This is yet another one of L.A. Metro’s projects for the “Twenty-Eight by ’28” initiative, which aims to complete 28 key transit projects before Los Angeles hosts the 2028 Olympics. Keep reading to find out more about how this project works and how it could affect you.
Project Overview: I-105 ExpressLanes
Many L.A. commuters will be familiar with ExpressLanes, also known as High Occupancy Toll (HOT) lanes, which currently operate along the I-10 (San Bernardo Freeway) and the I-110 (Harbor Freeway). ExpressLanes use dynamic pricing to mediate traffic congestion—allowing carpools, vanpools, and buses to use them for free, while solo drivers must pay a toll.
The new project, which just broke ground in April, converts the I-105 freeway’s carpool lanes into ExpressLanes, and adds a second ExpressLane as well. This will result in two new ExpressLanes running in each direction for about 16 miles between I-405 and Studebaker Road in Norwalk. Work includes restriping and widening the freeway where necessary, installing a buffer to separate the ExpressLanes from general-purpose lanes, and installing better tolling equipment, signage, auxiliary lanes for merging, and soundwalls.
The I-105 ExpressLane Project promises improved traffic flow for the 2028 Olympics and beyond, reducing commute times by up to 50% compared to the existing HOV lanes, and up to 10% in the general-purpose lanes.
Construction on I-105
Construction has begun on the first of three project segments: Segment 1 between I-405 and Central Ave should be completed by the 2028 Olympics, costing an estimated $757 million, which is part of the project’s $1.4 billion budget. Segment 2 (I-105 between Central Avenue and I-710) and Segment 3 (I-105 between I-710 and Studebaker Road) will begin construction in 2026.
While the project will widen the freeway in some places, construction falls within the existing Caltrans right-of-way and will not necessitate the demolition of any homes or businesses.
During this construction period, commuters may experience periodic lane closures, ramp closures, and possible detours. This may also impact travelers who need to reach Los Angeles International Airport (which incidentally is about to debut its new LAX/Metro Transit Center).
🌐 Learn more about the I-105 ExpressLanes project from L.A. Metro