The Caltrans I-405 South Multi-Asset Project encompasses an extensive set of improvements within the 11-mile project alignment from Interstate 5 to Harbor Boulevard in the Cities of Irvine, Costa Mesa, and a portion of unincorporated Orange County. The project will extend the life expectancy of the pavement, improve safety and efficiency for travelers and maintenance crews, enhance traffic operations, manage congestion, and provide the ability to collect, analyze, and utilize data for systems performance along the I-405 corridor.
Designed by Michael Baker International and under contract with Guy F. Atkinson Construction, the scope of work on this $216-million Design-Build project includes pavement rehabilitation, installation of roadside safety measures, implementation of intelligent transportation management systems, and restoration of existing lighting elements.
Key need determiners for the project were deteriorating pavement with surface distress, slab displacement, and cracking. In addition, cracked and settled approach and departure slabs to and from bridges, and out-of-date bridge railings raised safety concerns. Rehabilitating the roadway with long-life concrete pavement will significantly reduce the need for repairs, and the subsequently reduce the exposure of maintenance crews to live traffic.
The project also involves the construction of a new Park-and-Ride facility featuring solar-powered electric vehicle chargers, and rehabilitation of lighting along the I-405 corridor.
The project is the first in Orange County to utilize the Design-Build delivery method and currently, the project is on track to be substantially compete in the spring of 2026.
Recently, the project reached two significant milestones. Broken into five major segments, the first two segments have been released for construction, with Caltrans District 12 hosting a groundbreaking ceremony to kick off construction.
The Caltrans Team on the project includes Resident Engineer Mona Shahidi, Structural Representative Brian Vo, and METS Representative Danny Chung.