California Highways (www.cahighways.org): Route 405

Orange County

South Orange County Lane Addition (12-Ora-405, PM 0.2/8.7)

In October 2018, the CTC approved for future consideration of funding the following project for which a Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND) has been completed: I-405 in Orange County (12-Ora-405, PM 0.2/8.7). Construct roadway improvements including the addition of one lane on a portion of I-405 near the cities of Costa Mesa and Irvine. (MPO ORA13104). This project is located on I-405 near the cities of Costa Mesa and Irvine in Orange County. The project proposes to add a single general lane on the mainline freeway and interchanges on I-405 in both directions from I-5 to Route 55. The project proposes to improve the high level of congestion on the existing I-405 corridor and on-off ramps and the current inadequate Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) infrastructure. The proposed project addresses the existing and future traffic demand and provides future mobility while minimizing environmental and economic impacts. The proposed project is currently programmed and funded through the Project Approval and Environmental Document (PA&ED) phase for $8.0 million (Surface Transportation Block Grant funds) in the 2017 Federal Transportation Improvement Program. The estimated schedule for construction is yet to be determined pending additional funding for the proposed project.
(Source: October 2018 CTC Agenda Item 2.2c.(1))

In January 2016, the CTC approved SHOPP funding on I-405 in Irvine, Fountain Valley and Seal Beach at Route 133, Brookhurst Street, Warner Avenue, and Seal Beach Boulevard (~ORA 1.758, ORA 13.784, ORA 14.871, and ORA 22.618). Outcome/Output: Widen ramp, overlay connector and ramps with open graded hot mix asphalt, upgrade guardrail and install lighting to reduce the number and severity of collisions. $1,313,000

Sand Canyon Auxiliary Lanes (~ ORA 1.758 to ORA 3.93)

There are plans to add auxiliary lanes from Sand Canyon Road on-ramp to Jeffrey Road (~ ORA 2.887 to ORA 3.907), and from Route 133 to Sand Canyon Road (~ ORA 1.758 to ORA 2.887). July 2005 CTC Agenda.

In May 2013, the CTC received notice that the OCTA would propose delaying the environmental phase of the Route 405 Southbound Auxiliary Lane – Sand Canyon to University project (~ ORA 2.887 to ORA 3.93) to FY 2014-15 in order to align the project with the schedule of an adjacent Route 405 southbound auxiliary lane project. In June 2013, the CTC approved delaying $224,000 in RIP PA&ED from FY 2013-14 to FY 2014-15 for the Route 405 Southbound Auxiliary Lane – University to Sand Canyon project (PPNO 4956) in Orange County.

In August 2014, the CTC authorized $528K for construction of an auxiliary lane on I-405 from University to Route 133 southbound.

The 2018 STIP, approved at the CTC March 2018 meeting, appears to close out PPNO 4956 Auxiliary lane southbound, University-Rt 133, env/PSE.

The following project was included in the final adopted 2018 SHOPP in March 2018: PPNO 4956A. 12-Orange-405 2.4/3.9. On I-405, In Irvine, from Route 133 to Sand Canyon Avenue; also from Sand Canyon Avenue to University Drive/Jeffery Road. Construct southbound auxiliary lanes. Begin Con: 12/1/2019. Total Project Cost: $8,200K.

In April 2019, Caltrans published a commuter alert on the start of construction for this project. The alert noted that construction was expected to be completed in January 2020.
(Source: Caltrans District 12 on Twitter, 4/12/2019)

As originally constructed, there were problems with the new HOV connector ramps between I-405 and Route 55 (~ ORA 8.207). It seemed that the bridge had cracks so severe that the bridge might not be able to handle the weight of daily traffic. The estimated repair costs would be 80% of construction costs for this bridge. The bridge was eventually repaired and reopened.

In August 2016, it was reported that Caltrans plans to close Red Hill Avenue (~ ORA 8.432) to all traffic between Pullman Street in Costa Mesa and Main Street in Irvine starting at Aug. 29. The bridge is part of that stretch. It is being shut down for four months of repairs to stabilize the embankment under one of the approach ramps. The roadway is expected to remain closed until Dec. 30. The closure is necessary because the earth under the approach ramp on the Costa Mesa side is moving, which has caused walls meant to keep the soil in place to bulge slightly and "triggered progressive pavement cracks on the roadway above," according to Caltrans. As part of the $9.5-million project, the underlying soil embankment will be reinforced and new retaining walls will be constructed.
(Source: LA Times, 8/20/2016)

Route 405 Widening - Route 55 to I-605 (Initial Construction) (~ ORA 8.901 to ORA 24.164)

The SAFETEA-LU act, enacted in August 2005 as the reauthorization of TEA-21, provided the following expenditures for this route:

High Priority Project #317. Construct one additional all-purpose lane in each direction on I-405, and provide additional capital improvements from Route 73 through the LA County line. $2,568,000. (~ ORA 10.352 to ORA 24.164)

In June 2007, the OCTA outlined a 5-year plan for the use of the 2^nd Measure M funds that included adding lanes on Route 91 between I-5 and Route 57 and between Route 55 and the Riverside County border; adding lanes on I-405 between Route 55 and I-605 (~ ORA 8.901 to ORA 24.164); a new NB lane on Route 57 between Orangewood Avenue and Lambert Road.

HOT Lanes - Orange County (Rte 73 to I-605, ~ ORA 10.352 to ORA 24.164)

In February 2010, the Daily Pilot reported that the Orange County Transportation Authority approved further environmental and engineering study of a proposal to add high-occupancy toll (H.O.T.) lanes to I-405 in Orange County between Route 73 and I-605. Specifically, the proposal proposes to add one general-purpose lane and one H.O.T. lane in each direction on I-405 between Route 73 and I-605 freeways. There is already one high-occupancy vehicle lane in each direction that would be converted into a H.O.T. lane, so it would create a total of two express H.O.T. lanes in each direction. About $600 million in funding for the expansion is available from Measure M2 – a ½¢ county sales tax that pays for transportation improvements – but that is far less than is needed for even the most modest expansion currently being considered. The cheapest option being explored is to add one general-purpose lane in each direction, which would cost $1.7 billion but would generate no revenue. The most expensive is to add two express lanes in each direction and charge tolls, which would cost $2.2 billion but would generate $197 million annually – enough to support the full cost of the project. The freeway expansion is tentatively slated to begin in 2016.
(Source: "OCTA approves study of 405 widening project", Daily Pilot, 2/10/2010)

In June 2012, there were public hearings on the plans to widen I-405 between Route 73 and I-605. Caltrans and the Orange County Transportation Authority are looking at three alternatives for the San Diego Freeway, between the Corona del Mar (Route 73) and the San Gabriel River (I-605) freeways. The first option is to widen the I-405 by adding a single general-purpose lane in each direction from Euclid Street to I-605. The second option would do the same thing as the first and also add a general-purpose lane in the northbound direction from Brookhurst Street to the Seventh Street exit on Route 22 and a second general-purpose lane southbound from Seal Beach Boulevard to Brookhurst. The third option would add one regular lane in each direction of I-405 from Euclid Street to the I-605 interchange and a tolled express in each direction from Route 73 to I-605. There also is a no-build alternative. The third option has received an icy reception in Costa Mesa and Westminster. Seal Beach doesn't want either the second or third options because both would move a sound wall closer to the College Park East community. And in Fountain Valley, some officials are concerned because of the impact on local businesses. Under the third option, two toll lanes from Route 73 to I-605 would be free to cars with three passengers most of the time, but there would be a charge during peak hours. Cars with just a driver or two people would be charged. A decision is in Summer 2012. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2015 and could last roughly 4½ years. The cost of the project ranges from $1.3 billion to $1.7 billion, depending on which alternative is chosen.
(Source: OC Register, 6/13/12)

405 Orange County In August 2012, the CTC reviewed a draft EIR for this project, and indicated that there were no comments to the Draft EIR, that the Findings were accepted and that consideration of funding should be brought forward to the Commission for approval of Design Build funds. The Draft EIR proposed the following alternatives: (0) No Build Alternative; (1) Alternative 1 would add one general purpose lane; (2) Alternative 2 would add two general purpose lanes; and (3) Alternative 3 would add one general purpose lane and one Express Toll Lane. The Toll Express Lane and the existing High Occupancy Vehicle Lane would be managed jointly as a tolled Express Lanes Facility with two lanes in each direction.

In September (and again in October) 2012, the OCTA voted against HOT lanes for I-405 in Orange County. The OCTA did approve a $1.3 billion plan that adds one lane in each direction from Euclid Avenue to I-605. The project will be fully funded by Measure M, a half-cent sales tax voters approved in 2006. The board could not gather the votes in favor of the toll system because too many questions remained regarding how the anticipated toll revenue – about $1.5 billion generated over 20 years – would be used. Under the vetoed toll option, existing carpool lanes would be used to create toll express lanes between Route 73 and I-605. That alternative also included adding one general-purpose lane in each direction. In early 2013, the California Department of Transportation will look at three options. The first adds one general-purpose lane in each direction. Cost: $1.3 billion. The second adds two general-purpose lanes each way. Cost: $1.4 billion. A third option adds one general-purpose lane in each direction and a toll lane to the existing carpool lane that will be managed together. Cost: $1.7 billion. OCTA is working closely with Caltrans and anticipates they will concur with the board's selection of alternative 1.

In January 2013, it was reported that several cities along the I-405 corridor in south Orange County want more widening than the OCTA approved. They favor a proposal that would add two lanes in each direction, not just one, at a cost of around $1.4 billion. Voters in 2006 approved the idea of adding one lane in each direction as part of a package of transportation projects paid for with a half-percent sales tax, known as Measure M2. Planners later raised two other possibilities. The first would add two lanes in each direction. The other would add one normal lane and create two pay-to-ride toll lanes in each direction, in part by using existing carpool lanes. That last option drew immediate fire from cities along I-405. Six of them – Costa Mesa, Huntington Beach, Westminster, Fountain Valley, Seal Beach and Los Alamitos – launched a $25,000 lobbying effort to derail the toll lanes and push for two new lanes in each direction. They're considering whether to pool another $25,000 to keep the fight going. The $1.4 billion cost to add two lanes in each direction may seem like a short jump from the $1.3 billion estimate for single lanes, but that's a difference of $100 million. Those who support the double-lane solution say the money could be found in other projects. The OCTA board, though, voted 12-4 last fall to support the less-expensive single-lane project.
(Source: Orange County Register, 1/25/13)

In December 2013, the OCTA approved adding a new lane in each direction of I-405 between the LA County Line and Costa Mesa. No toll lanes.

In July 2014, it was reported that Caltrans is moving forward with a controversial plan to add toll lanes to I-405 in Orange County despite strong opposition from nearby cities. The Caltrans plan incorporates some of the OCTA proposal, but generated opposition because it adds the toll component and overtakes an existing carpool lane to create the two HOT lanes in each direction. Caltrans is exploring the possibility of allowing vehicles with two or more occupants to ride free in the toll lanes, but a final decision has not been made. Under the plan, Orange County transit officials would continue with their project adding a free lane on each side of the 405. When that work is done, Caltrans plans to build a second new lane on each side. These new lanes, plus two existing carpool lanes, would then be coverted to HOT lanes for use by solo drivings willing to pay as well as carpoolers with multiple passengers.
(Source: Los Angeles Times, 7/25/14)

In June 2015, it was reported that Caltrans District 12 signed the Record of Decision sealing the selection of an improvement project for the I-405 Freeway through Orange County. Caltrans has chosen an alternative that adds a general purpose lane to I-405 in each direction from Euclid Street in Fountain Valley to the I-605 interchange. It also adds a toll lane in each direction between Route 73 and eastbound Route 22 in Westminster. It also will take the existing carpool lane in each direction and add it to the tolled Express Lane. The Record of Decision identifies five intersections in Long Beach with significant impacts from the expansion. The percentage of cost OCTA is willing to pay for improvements ranges from 8% to 23%.In April 2014, it was reported that Orange County transportation officials caved, indicating couldn't fight the state any longer and had to allow toll lanes as part of a $1.7 billion expansion project of I-405. The board voted 12-4 to move forward with a 14-mile project to widen I-405 between Long Beach and Costa Mesa by adding one regular lane and one toll lane in each direction. It also calls for converting the existing carpool lane into a toll lane. Caltrans will provide $82 million to subsidize the $400 million price tag for the toll lanes. The move mirrors decisions by transportation officials in Los Angeles a few years ago, when they caved in to state officials and added toll lanes to I-110 and then the I-10 the following year. Under the project, cars with at least two people will be allowed to use the toll lanes for free for at least three years. The I-405 construction project will run from Route 73 in Costa Mesa to I-605 near the Long Beach/Los Angeles County border. Construction should begin in 2018; it is expected to take five years to complete. By the year 2040, the expansion is estimated to shrink commute times in the free lanes between the two areas from 57 minutes to 29 minutes.
(Source: KPCC 4/27/2015, OCRegister 4/28/2015)

In May 2015, it was reported that the director of Caltrans District 12 had signed the Record of Decision sealing the selection of an improvement project for the I-405 Freeway through Orange County. Caltrans has chosen an alternative that adds a general purpose lane to I-405 in each direction from Euclid Street in Fountain Valley to the I-605 interchange. It also adds a toll lane in each direction between Route 73 and eastbound Route 22 in Westminster. It also will take the existing carpool lane in each direction and add it to the tolled Express Lane. Long Beach has fought the project because the freeway expansion stops at the city’s border, creating a potential bottleneck. Orange County Transportation Authority officials have argued that the beginning of I-605 at the county line mitigates the larger I-405 feeding into the area. The Record of Decision acknowledges Long Beach’s concerns, but says they have been answered in previous responses. In regards to ongoing negotiations between Long Beach, OCTA and Caltrans regarding mitigation payments for repair and upgrades of Long Beach city streets near the freeway, the document says, “It is anticipated this discussion would conclude prior to the start of project construction with an agreement. Caltrans and OCTA are committed to payment of the fair share identified in the Final EIR/EIS.” That document identifies five intersections in Long Beach with significant impacts from the expansion. However, the percentage of cost OCTA is willing to pay for improvements ranges from 8% to 23% — an amount Long Beach officials have said is inadequate.
(Source: LA Gazette, 5/30/2015)

In August 2015, the CTC approved for future consideration of funding a project in Orange and Los Angeles Counties that will construct improvements on the mainline freeway and interchanges on I-405 between Route 73 and I-605. The project is fully funded. The total estimated cost is $1,782,050,000 for capital and support. The project is programmed in the 2014 State Highway Operation and Protection Program for $82,050,000. The balance is funded with federal and local dollars. Construction is estimated to begin in Fiscal Year 2016-17. The scope, as described for the preferred alternative, is consistent with the project scope programmed by the Commission in the 2014 State Highway Operation and Protection Program. The EIR claims that project effects on the community have been mitigated to the maximum extent predictable but increased urbanization subsequent to the completion of the project and the temporary construction related effects are considered significant and unavoidable. They claim mitigations have been incorporated to address those issues.

In November 2015, it was reported that the OCTA Board approved the short-listing of four design-build teams (OC 405 Partners, Orange County Corridor Constructors, Shimmick/Tutor-Perini, and Skanska-Flatiron) for the design and construction of the I-405 Improvement Project. The development of the short list is the first of a two-part process recommended under Assembly Bill (AB) 401, which grants design-build authority to agencies like OCTA. During the second step, the short-listed teams will provide feedback on the final request for proposal as part of an industry review that will assist OCTA in evaluating project risks and cost drivers. Each team will submit a technical and financial proposal, and OCTA will choose one contractor based on its findings. The I-405 Improvement Project will add one general purpose lane in each direction from Euclid Street to I-605 and add an express lane in each direction. The new express lane, along with the existing high-occupancy vehicle lane, would become dual express toll lanes in each direction on I-405 from Route 73 to I-605.
(Source: OCTA Blog, 11/18/2015)

In March 2016, it was reported that the OCTA Board of Directors voted on March 14, 2016 to enter into cooperative agreements with the cities of Costa Mesa, Fountain Valley, Huntington Beach, and Westminster to provide city services required during the design-build implementation of the Interstate 405 (I-405) Improvement Project. Because the project includes improvements to city-owned and operated streets and will impact some city traffic facilities, a cooperative agreement with each of the I-405 corridor cities is necessary to define the roles and responsibilities of each agency during the project’s implementation.
(Source: OCTA Blog, 3/23/2016)

In April 2016, it was reported that attorneys for the city of Long Beach and the California Department of Transportation have agreed to litigate the case in a neutral county, San Diego. Long Beach sued the state in summer 2015 over plans to add one toll lane and one free lane to I-405 between Route 73 in Costa Mesa and I-605 near the Los Angeles County line. The proposal also calls for converting the existing carpool lane into a toll lane. Seal Beach also filed a lawsuit against the project. Both cities say they are not against the $1.7 billion freeway expansion itself; instead, they want Caltrans and the Orange County Transportation Authority to pay for more traffic congestion solutions on city surface streets. The California Department of Transportation will provide $82 million to subsidize the $400 million construction price tag for the toll lanes.
(Source: 89.3 KPCC, 4/9/2016)

In April 2016, it was also reported that initial findings of a traffic and revenue study for express lanes on I-405 – which near the Los Angeles County line is the nation’s most heavily traveled freeway – have been released and Orange County transportation officials will soon determine a toll structure. Stantec, a consultant for the transportation agency, presented board members with a traffic and revenue study outlining three toll options for 14 miles of I-405 between Route 73 and I-605. Tolls could range from an average of about $9 in peak hours to $2 in the off-peak, depending on the toll option for the 14-mile stretch, with lower tolls for shorter trips, according to the study. The study indicated that allowing carpools of at least two people to use the proposed express lanes for free during rush hours – which the OCTA wanted – would not assure a free-flowing commute for customers and could result in tolls of up to $15.46 during peak periods. Options were presented ranged from free or a 50% discount for all vehicles with more than three passengers (HOV+3) to a full toll all the time for all vehicles with two passengers or less (HOV+2). OCTA board members are expected to vote on a toll policy and financing plan for the express lanes May 23. The transportation agency plans to secure financing throughout the summer and enter into an operating toll agreement with Caltrans. Construction is slated to begin in 2017 and run about five years.
(Source: OC Register, 4/27/2016)

In June 2016, it was reported that the OCTA board members had approved the initial 405 Express Lanes toll policy. The approved initial toll policy will allow two-person carpools to remain free in the existing carpool lanes until 2023. After the toll lanes open in 2023, two-person carpools will remain free for the first three and a half years during non-peak hours, pending the results of the project traffic and revenue study. In addition, the California Transportation Commission (CTC) voted unanimously to approve OCTA’s application to develop and operate a high-occupancy toll (HOT) facility for the I-405 Improvement Project, pursuant to Assembly Bill (AB) 194. AB 194 allows regional transportation agencies such as OCTA to apply to the CTC to operate HOT lanes, while ensuring local control. This is the first project approved under this authority. The CTC’s approval will allow OCTA to move forward with the development of the 405 Express Lanes’ operating and enforcement agreements with Caltrans.
(Source: OCTA Blog, 6/2/2016)

In October 2016, the CTC approved a $7,771,000 allocation from the Budget Act of 2016, Budget Act Item 2660-304-6056 for the following locally administered Proposition 1B Trade Corridor Improvement Fund Program project: OCTA 12-Ora-405 9.3/24.2 | I-405 Improvement - Route 73 to I-605. Add one general purpose lane, and one tolled express lane, in both the north and southbound direction; ~~construct eight new structures, rebuild 18 bridges and overcrossings, widen/modify six structures and~~ improve local streets and on/off ramps. (TCIF #122) Design-Build delivery method. (Future Consideration of Funding approved under Resolution E-15-50; August 2015.) (R/W Certification on 9/2/2016.) (The TCIF allocation is split as follows: $0 for construction engineering and $7,771,000 for construction capital.) (Contribution from other sources: ~~$1,537,512,000~~. $846,000,000) Outcome/Output: The project will reduce traffic congestion, commute time, encourage shared rides and public transit, increase safety and economic productivity, and improve the movement of goods and services. ALLOCATION IS CONTINGENT UPON APPROVAL OF A BUDGET REVISION BY THE DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE.

In November 2016, it was reported that the OCTA board awarded a $1.2 billion design-build contract – the largest in the agency’s history – to add one regular lane in each direction and an express lanes toll facility to relieve traffic on I-405. Upon completion of the I-405 Improvement Project, travel time on the highway from Route 73 to I-605, consistently ranked among the busiest in the nation, is expected to take 29 minutes during rush hour and 13 minutes on the 405 Express Lanes, by the year 2040. OCTA board members, by a 14-0 vote, selected OC 405 Partners – a team of firms led by OHL USA Inc. and Astaldi Construction Corporation – which offered the lowest price for the job of three qualified bidders. This makes the I-405 Improvement Project the first in California that will be built following the passage of AB 401, which allows regional transportation agencies and Caltrans to use a design-build method to deliver highway projects in a way that reduces time and cost. Construction is slated to start in early 2017 with the new regular and express lanes at the center of the highway opening in 2023. The I-405 Express Lanes will also be the first project in California to use the tolling authority provided last year under AB 194 that ensures that any excess toll revenue will be used to fund improvements on local streets and public transportation. In addition to building new lanes, the I-405 project includes constructing 18 bridges and improving access to highway and traffic on surrounding streets.
(Source: OC Register, 11/14/2016)

In February 2017, it was reported that on January 31, 2017, OCTA's CEO, Darrell Johnson, signed a $1.2 billion contract with OC 405 Partners for the design and construction of the I-405 Improvement Project. This is the largest contract in OCTA's history. With this signature, OCTA has issued Notice to Proceed No. 1 to the design-build team, which marks the official beginning of the I-405 Improvement Project. The project is the first in the state being built using the design-build authority provided under Assembly Bill 401 by Assemblyman Tom Daly, passed in 2013. AB 401 provides authority for regional transportation agencies and Caltrans to use the design-build method of project delivery on state highway projects, resulting in cost and time savings. The project, set to begin construction this year, includes adding one regular lane in each direction – as promised in Measure M, Orange County’s half-cent sales tax for transportation improvements – and building the 405 Express Lanes in the center of the freeway. In addition to constructing the new lanes, the project will rebuild 18 bridges and improve freeway access and traffic on local streets.
(Source: OCTA Blog, 2/1/2017)

In August 2017, it was reported that a loan secured by OCTA marks a major milestone in funding the I-405 Improvement Project while saving taxpayers millions of dollars. At the end of July 2017, OCTA signed the final documents with the U.S. Department of Transportation for the $627 million loan through the Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA). The TIFIA loan will pay for a major portion of the $1.9 billion worth of freeway improvements set to begin construction early in 2018. The loan’s low 2.91 percent interest rate is expected to save Orange County taxpayers about $300 million over the 35-year life of the loan as compared to traditional bond financing. The loan will be repaid solely using revenue collected from drivers who choose to use the 405 Express Lanes being built as part of the project. In addition, the TIFIA loan will save 405 Express Lanes users up to 20 percent in toll charges, finalizing OCTA’s commitment of allowing vehicles with more than one occupant to initially use the facility for free or at a reduced cost. With the loan secured, OCTA has given the contractor, OC 405 Partners, notice to fully proceed with the design and construction of the project. It’s expected the project will begin construction by early 2018 with completion anticipated for 2023.
(Source: OCTA Blog, 7/31/2017)

In January 2018, it was reported that construction was set to begin on the I-405 Improvement Project (including a formal groundbreaking). With it’s $1.9 billion price tag, the undertaking marks the largest project in the Orange County Transportation Authority’s history, as well as the largest active freeway project in California. The result will be a new freeway lane in each direction, for the 16 miles between Euclid Street in Fountain Valley and the I-605 in the Seal Beach area. Once completed, the existing carpool lanes on that stretch become express lanes – requiring drivers using them to carry passengers or to pay. In early February 2018, expect to see concrete barriers sprouting along parts of the I-405, along with construction worksites popping up. Later in spring, re-striping will begin so drivers can be shifted toward the freeway’s middle, allowing grading and the removal of trees to the freeway’s sides. In late summer, the heaviest impacts to commuters will begin to break out – demolition and reconstruction of the bridges so the extra lanes can fit beneath them. At least 18 bridges where city streets cross over the freeway along the way must be re-done. The OCTA will supply the popular cell-phone app Waze with information about official detours – hoping to keep drivers from taking impromptu detours through otherwise quiet communities. The OCTA is also developing its own app for the project, along with a web page. Both will provide information about the I-405 construction and street closures.
(Source: OC Register, 1/23/2018)

Rte 405 OC Bridge Destruction In August 2018, it was noted that construction has begun on the I-405 Improvement project, and there was a staggered schedule for bridge closures. The first of 18 bridges set for reconstruction is the McFadden Avenue bridge edging Westminster and Huntington Beach. It will fully close at 10 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018, remaining off-limits for at least a year. Over the following two weeks, the bridge will undergo a two-part demolition, requiring total freeway closures in both directions from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m.. Drivers will be routed off the freeway at the ramp before McFadden Avenue and back on at the next ramp. If driving northbound, that’s Beach Boulevard and then Bolsa Avenue; vice-versa heading southbound. ther bridges with higher traffic volumes will be handled in two stages rather than demolished all at once, a process that will take about 18 months. In those cases, only half of the bridge will be dismantled and traffic will be moved to the remaining side. Eventually, traffic will shift to the completed side and the second half of the bridge will be bulldozed and rebuilt. Next up on the timeline after McFadden Avenue is the Slater Avenue bridge in Fountain Valley, where construction should get underway by the end of 2018. Unlike McFadden, it will remain in use, one side at a time. In addition to McFadden, bridges scheduled to be wholly out of commission during demolition and construction are Bushard Street and Talbert Avenue in 2019, Newland Street and Ward Street in 2020 and Edinger Avenue in 2021. While several bridges may be worked on simultaneously, no adjacent bridges will be closed at the same time. Of the project’s $1.9 billion total price tag, about $1.1 billion will come from Measure M, the county’s half-cent sales tax for transportation improvements. The federal government will cover $45.6 million, and the state $89.7 million. A low-interest loan for $629 million will be paid off by revenue from pay-to-use lanes. Ultimately, the end product will feature two new lanes in each direction – increasing capacity from five to seven lanes. The existing carpool lane on each side will become one of two “express lanes” – still free for vehicles carrying three or more people. Solo drivers will pay a fee for the lanes, as will cars with two people during rush hour. Express lane users will need a transponder that will automatically deduct fees. The price will range from $10 at rush hour to 50 cents at nighttime.
(Source: OC Register, 8/7/2018, updated 8/27/2018)

In January 2019, OCTA provided an update on the project. It noted that major construction began in March 2018, when crews began demolishing the McFadden Avenue, Slater Avenue, Bolsa Chica Road and Magnolia Street bridges. 2019 was project to be a busy year for bridge construction, with work planned on the Fairview Road and Bolsa Avenue bridges followed by additional bridge construction later in the year. The McFadden Avenue and Slater Avenue bridges are anticipated to be completed and open to traffic in late 2019.
(Source: OCTA Blog, 1/18/2019)

In August 2019, it was reported that eleven months after it closed to traffic, the rebuilt Slater Avenue bridge in Fountain Valley was reopening. The overpass will be the first of 18 to reopen during the massive expansion of the I-405. Ultimately, the 16-mile stretch of I-405 between Route 73 in Costa Mesa and I-605 in Seal Beach will gain two lanes in each direction. Mills said the entire project is on schedule for completion in early 2023. When one bridge opens, another bridge closes – or, in this case, two. On the same night that Slater reemerges, the Bushard Street and Talbert Avenue overpasses – also in Fountain Valley – will shut down for demolition and reconstruction. OCTA is staggering the closures as a buffer to congestion and inconvenient detours. With two-thirds of the bridges, Fountain Valley and Westminster are the most impacted of the five Orange County cities bordering I-405. In Summer 2018, McFadden Avenue, spanning Westminster and Huntington Beach, became the first bridge to come down. Slater went second. The busiest bridges are undergoing reconstruction in two phases. That way, they can remain open one side at a time throughout – a slower approach that adds about six months to the process. Slater and McFadden have both been renovated in one stage. Yet Slater beat McFadden to the finish line because it was one of the easier bridges, having no freeway on-ramp. Still, it needed to be longer to accommodate the broadened freeway. Due to simple geometry, it wound up about two feet higher, too. Slater is 15 feet wider now, as well, allowing for more generous bike lanes and sidewalks on each side. Another reason Slater moved along quickly was it did not require water and sewer lines, as other bridges do.
(Source: OC Register $$$, 8/28/2019)

In March 2020, it was reported that crews shifted traffic to the first reconstructed half of the new Magnolia Street bridge on Monday, March 30. The Magnolia Street bridge, which straddles the cities of Fountain Valley, Huntington Beach and Westminster, is being demolished and reconstructed in two stages, one half at a time, allowing it to remain open to traffic in both directions during construction. It is one of 18 bridges to be built, widened or replaced as part of the I-405 Improvement Project, which will speed up travel times on I-405 between Costa Mesa and the Los Angeles County line, an area traveled by more than 370,000 vehicles a day. The new portion of the Magnolia Street bridge will be is the first to open among the project’s two-stage bridges. The Slater Avenue bridge, which was fully demolished and reconstructed in one stage, was the first reconstructed bridge to open to traffic in August.
(Source: OCTA Blog, 3/26/2020)

In June and July 2020, the OCTA reported that reduced traffic volumes due to stay at home COVID-19 orders have accelerated construction. Construction continues on the Bushard Street, Talbert Avenue and McFadden Avenue overcrossings, which fully closed to traffic prior to being demolished and rebuilt as part of the project. McFadden is expected to open late in summer 2020, Bushard is anticipated to open late in 2020 and Talbert is scheduled for completion early 2021. Significant bridge construction also continues at Fairview Road, Magnolia Street, Goldenwest Street, Westminster Boulevard and Bolsa Chica Road. These bridges are reconstructed one half at a time and are open to traffic during construction. The first half of the Magnolia Street bridge was completed in late March and construction on the second half began immediately after. The first half of the other bridges are expected to open to traffic by the end of 2020. Demolition of the second half of the Goldenwest Street bridge is expected to occur in mid to late July 2020. Reconstruction of that portion of the bridge is scheduled to take approximately one year to complete. Unlike Bolsa Chica and Goldenwest, the Edwards Street bridge will be demolished and reconstructed in one stage, so it will be fully closed to traffic for approximately one year. Demolition of Edwards Street is also planned for late July.
(Source: OCTA Blog, 6/15/2020; OCTA Blog, 7/8/2020)

In October 2020, it was reported that construction is nearly 40 percent complete on the $1.9 billion I-405 Improvement Project. Construction on the project began in 2018 and includes adding one regular lane in each direction between Euclid Street and I-605, and a second lane in each direction in the center of the freeway from Route 73 to I-605 that will combine with the existing carpool lanes to form the 405 Express Lanes. In addition, 18 bridges are being built, widened or replaced as part of the project, which will speed up travel times on I-405 between Costa Mesa and the Los Angeles County line. Significantly reduced traffic volumes during the COVID-19 pandemic allowed OCTA and its partners to implement extended overnight and daytime freeway lane closures to mitigate schedule delays. The McFadden Avenue and Bushard Street bridges opened to traffic at the end of October 2020, and the Talbert Avenue bridge is expected to open in early 2021. The Edwards Street overcrossing was also recently demolished and is under construction. Significant bridge construction also continues at Fairview Road, Magnolia Street, Bolsa Avenue, Goldenwest Street, Westminster Boulevard and Bolsa Chica Road. These bridges are being rebuilt one half at a time so they can remain open to traffic. The first halves of the new Magnolia Street, Goldenwest Street and Bolsa Chica Road overcrossings opened in early 2020, and the first halves of the new Fairview Road, Bolsa Avenue and Westminster Boulevard overcrossings are anticipated to open in Spring 2021. Construction on the project is anticipated to be completed in 2023.
(Source: OCTA Blog, 10/7/2020)

In February 2021, it was reported that construction is 50 percent complete. The first half of the new Westminster Boulevard bridge opened to traffic in Westminster on January 28, and the first half of the Fairview Road bridge in Costa Friday opened on February 12. The two bridges are among 18 to be built, widened or replaced as part of the project, which aims to speed up travel times on I-405 between Costa Mesa and the Los Angeles County line. Both bridges are being demolished and reconstructed in two stages, one half at a time, allowing them to remain open to traffic in both directions during construction. Demolition of the second half of the Westminster Boulevard bridge was planned for early February 2021, and demolition of the second half of the Fairview Road bridge was planned for late February. The Talbert Avenue and Magnolia Street bridges, along with the first half of the Bolsa Avenue bridge, are expected to open in the first half of 2021. Later in the year, the Heil Avenue pedestrian overcrossing, along with the Edwards Street, Bolsa Chica Road and Goldenwest Street bridges, are scheduled to open.
(Source: OCTA Blog, 2/5/2021, OCTA Blog, 2/19/2021)

In July 2023, it was reported that the $2.1 billion project to improve I-405 in Orange County is almost finished, and should completed by the end of 2023. The project adds one general lane in each direction between Costa Mesa and the Orange County and Los Angeles County line. It also creates a second lane that combines with the existing carpool lane to create the 405 Express Lanes. The average toll is $3 for going northbound, southbound, anytime of the day or night. There are also different segments so drivers can get in and out of the express lanes of the carpool lanes at various points. There will be no tolls for carpools with three or more people, motorcycles or vehicles with designated veterans license plates, or disabled person license plates. Clean air vehicles will have a 15% discount. Carpools with two people can use the lanes without paying in the first three and a half years during non-peak hours, which are outside the hours of 6 to 10 a.m. and 2 to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and outside of 1 to 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Solo drivers and two-person carpools would always have to pay a toll during peak hours. Tolls would depend on the day of the week, hour, direction of travel and distance traveled. The maximum toll rate for the entire drive is $9.95 and the minimum is $2.70. Drivers will be required to have transponders in order to use the express lanes. Toll rates will be reviewed and adjusted on a quarterly basis. The money will go toward paying the $629-million federal loan that the OCTA received to construct the express lanes.
(Source: ABC 7, 7/13/2023; Los Angeles Times, 7/14/2023)

[Susan St.] In April 2007, the CTC considered approval of a Negative Environmental Impact Statement and approval of a public road connection for the Susan Street Ramp (~ ORA 11.524). This project would construct a northbound exit ramp about 0.4 miles N of the Route 73 merge ramp onto I-405. The proposed exit ramp would connect to the southern extension Susan Street at the IKEA driveway intersection. The exit ramp is estimated to cost $1.5 million and is fully funded from local sources. Construction would begin in FY 2007-08. The proposed improvement will mitigate congestion by providing direct access from the northbound I-405 distributor road and diverting traffic from the existing Harbor Boulevard and Fairview Road interchanges to this proposed improvement at Susan Street. The proposed improvement is to construct a northbound I-405 off-ramp to Susan Street. Susan Street, a north-south arterial, is located north of I-405 midway between Harbor Boulevard and Fairview Road. The Susan Street off-ramp will begin 0.4 miles west of northbound Route 73 to northbound I-405 merge. The off-ramp extends 0.2 miles as a single lane and widens to three lanes at the ramp terminus. The Susan Street off-ramp will be braided below the Fairview Road on-ramp to northbound I-405. The proposed improvements will increase the capacity and improve operations of the existing Harbor Boulevard and Fairview Road interchanges.

In August 2015, the CTC authorized $82,000,000 for a project in Orange County on I-405 in Fountain Valley, from Ellis Ave/ Euclid Avenue to Magnolia Street (~ ORA 12.433 to ORA 15.224) that would construct auxiliary lanes in each direction as part of the larger I-405 Widening project EA 0H100. This project is necessary to reduce congestion and improve highway operations and mobility.

The SAFETEA-LU act, enacted in August 2005 as the reauthorization of TEA-21, provided the following expenditures for this route:

High Priority Project #28: In Huntington Beach, remove the Beach Blvd. off-ramp (~ ORA 16.621). Construct an additional mixed-travel lane on I-405 North at the Beach Blvd. interchange. $400,000.

Route 405/Route 22 Connectors (~ ORA 20.459 to ORA 23.496)

Inst 405/Rte 22 Interchange At its meeting on July 9, 2009, the CTC approved a CMIA project baseline agreement amendment to split the Route 22/405/605 HOV Connector with ITS Elements project (PPNO 2868C) into two construction projects: (1) Route 22 to I-405 between Seal Beach Boulevard and Valley View Street (PPNO 2868B); (2) I-405 to Route 605 between Katella Avenue and Seal Beach Boulevard (PPNO 2868C). In October 2009, the funding was rearranged to give some priority to the first of these two. In February 2010, the CTC approved amending the CMIA Program project baseline agreement for the Route 22/405/605 HOV Connector project (PPNO 2868C) to transfer $3,360,000 from CMIA reserve to Construction and reduce Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Program (CMAQ) funding by $24,100,000.

In September 2012, construction crews will shut down the eastbound Route 22 connector to the northbound I-405 for one year. The transition road, which carries about 3,000 vehicles a day must be rebuilt to make way for the new carpool lane connector between I-405 and I-605. During construction, the eastbound Route 22 transition to the northbound I-605 will remain open. From eastbound Route 22, the Orange County Transportation Authority advises motorists to exit and turn right at Studebaker Road and continue north to access the northbound I-405 on-ramp. All of the construction is part of a project that will connect carpool lanes on I-405, I-605 and Route 22. It's scheduled for completion in 2014.In December 2010, it was reported that construction was beginning, and commuters will be hit hard. The $277-million freeway project requires a series of road closures, including one of the main portals to a veterans' hospital and a major state university. The work will be done in two segments, and lane and street closures are to be sequenced to minimize some of the traffic impacts. When completed in 2014, the so-called West County Connector project built by the Orange County Transportation Authority will create a seamless link between carpool lanes and ease rush-hour bottlenecks on the I-405, Route 22 and I-605 freeways. The project calls for an additional carpool lane in each direction of the I-405 between Route 22 and I-605. Large overpasses will be built to connect the carpool lanes on the I-405 to those on the other freeways. Bridges and connectors throughout the project area are to be rebuilt, including those at 7th Street, Valley View Street and Seal Beach Boulevard. Onramps and offramps related to those structures also will be redone. In addition to 7th Street, two other heavily traveled bridges will be affected by the project: Seal Beach Boulevard over the I-405 and Valley View Street over Route 22. The number of traffic lanes will be reduced on the bridges for 11 months and 20 months, respectively.

Orange County to LAX

I-405 Expansion in Orange County - Long Beach Reaction (LA 0.000 to LA 2.265)

The LA Times reported in 2009 on a dichotomy between Los Angeles and Orange County regarding I-405 widening. Although Orange County has plans to add up to two lanes on each side of the roughly 14-mile stretch of I-405 between Route 73 and I-605. Bridges would also be rebuilt, some homes would be taken under eminent domain and the carpool buffer would shrink. However, Los Angeles county has no plans for widening. One reason is that the L.A. County side has less space for expansion than Orange County does. Los Angeles county has focused more energy and funds towards rail lines. This may create a problem similar to that seen on I-5 at the county line.
(Source: Los Angeles Times, 11/17/2009)

In July 2013, it was reported that Long Beach has protested the expansion plans in the original study. The revised study presents three alternatives, in addition to the required no build alternative:

Adding a single general purpose lane in each direction from Euclid Street to I-605.
Add the single lane plus a second lane in each direction from Brookhurst Street to the Seventh Street interchange (northbound) and Seal Beach Boulevard (southbound).
Add the general purpose lane plus a tolled express lane in each direction between Route 73 and Route 22 (Seventh Street). The existing carpool lane would become part of a joint tolled facility.

According to the supplemental study, between two to five intersections (not including ramps) in Long Beach would be impacted if one of the improvements is built. That number rises to four to nine intersections by 2040. The intersections immediately impacted by all three alternatives are at Los Coyotes Diagonal (~ LA 2.265) and Bellflower Boulevard and Willow Street and Bellflower Boulevard. If one of the larger alternatives is chosen, impacts are expected at Willow Street and Woodruff Avenue and Willow Street and Los Coyotes Diagonal. Percentages of intersection improvement costs paid for by Caltrans and OCTA in the draft report range from 30% to 4.45%, with each intersection costing between $240,000 to $810,000.

In August 2013, the CTC received a draft EIR for comment. The project in Los Angeles and Orange Counties proposes to construct roadway improvements on Interstate 405 (I-405) within the project limits, including 15 local street interchanges and three freeway-to-freeway interchanges (12-Ora-405, PM 9.3/24.2, 07-LA-405, PM 0.0/1.2, 12-Ora-22, PM R0.7/R3.8, 12-Ora-22, PM R0.5/R0.7, 12-Ora-73, PM R27.2/R27.8, 12-Ora-605, PM 3.5/R1.6 07-LA-605, PM R0.0/R1.2). The project is not fully funded. Depending on the alternative selected, the total estimated project cost ranges between $1.3 billion and $1.7 billion. The project will seek funding through the State Transportation Improvement Program, federal and local fund sources, and possibly toll revenue. Depending on the availability of funding, construction is estimated to begin in Fiscal Year 2015-16. Alternatives considered for the proposed project include:

No Build Alternative.
Alternative 1 - This alternative would add one general purpose lane in each direction of I-405 from Euclid Street to the I-605 interchange.
Alternative 2 - This alternative would add one general purpose lane in each direction of I-405 from Euclid Street to the I-605 interchange and add a second general purpose lane in the northbound direction from Brookhurst Street to the Route 22/ 7th Street interchange.
Alternative 3 - This alternative would add one general purpose lane in each direction of I-405 from Euclid Street to the I-605 interchange and add a tolled Express Lane in each direction from Route 73 to Route 22 East.

According to the August 2013 revised study, the following measures would be incorporated to minimize impacts of the project:

A payment shall be made by the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) to the City of Long Beach to cover the project’s fair share cost of the improvements at intersections owned by the City of Long Beach.
A payment shall be made by OCTA to the California Department of Transportation based on a Traffic Mitigation Agreement Fair Share Deferment.

In July 2015, it was reported that Long Beach is suing Caltrans and the Orange County Transportation Authority over the $1.7 billion project to expand I-405. The City Council authorized the city attorney in closed session Tuesday to file the lawsuit challenging the environmental documents filed with the plan, which widens I-405 by four lanes through Orange County to just past the Long Beach border. The city is seeking additional measures to reduce the impact of increased traffic on local streets. The environmental impact report for the I-405 expansion lists five intersection that will see improvements in Long Beach related to the widening plans, but assigns about 7-25 percent of the cost for the upgrades to OCTA. The rest is expected to be picked up by the city.
(Source: LB Press Telegraph 7/14/2015)

In April 2017, it was reported that completion of the upgrade of the Wilmington Interchange (~ LA 9.553) was delayed. Expansion of the often-clogged interchange was supposed to finish early in 2016, but now completion isn’t expected until 2018. Not only is the project two years behind schedule, it will cost $8 million more than expected because of delays and unanticipated underground utilities that got in the way. This widening project was conceived in 2005 to open up the intersection and freeway ramps so vehicles could more quickly move through. Work is being done in five stages, with the third stage now nearly complete. A newly built northbound I-405 on-ramp is nearly ready to open, and much of the work on the dam and bridge over the Dominguez Channel is done. Next, the bridge will be repaved. Wilmington Avenue also is being widened between East 223rd Street and East 220th Street, and new pavement and other upgrades are being added to the intersection and southbound ramp. The project’s two-year delay is largely because Southern California Edison was extremely slow to respond to work requests needed before construction stages could begin. The company thought Edison would take months to do work that it took years to do, said officials. Also, numerous underground oil pipelines and utility lines, ducts and vaults were encountered that weren’t anticipated in design plans. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority and Federal Highway Administration financed much of the total $27 million cost. But bond funds were also used from Carson’s Successor Agency, the city’s former redevelopment arm.
(Source: Daily Breeze, 4/22/2017)

Avalon Interchange Improvements (~ LA 11.24)

The SAFETEA-LU act, enacted in August 2005 as the reauthorization of TEA-21, provided the following expenditures for this route:

High Priority Project #2198. Avalon Boulevard/I-405 Interchange modification project, Carson. $4,800,000.

In October 2011, the CTC approved for future consideration of funding a project in Los Angeles County that will improve the Avalon Boulevard/I-405 interchange by constructing a new southbound on-ramp, widening the northbound off-ramp and on-ramp, and widening northbound Avalon Boulevard. The project is fully funded with Local and Federal funds. This project will be requesting a New Public Road Connection from the California Transportation Commission at the October 26-27, 2011 Meeting. The total estimated cost is $19,300,000. Construction is estimated to begin in Fiscal Year 2010-11. A copy of the ND has been provided to Commission staff. Due to potential impacts to visual resources, hydrology and water quality, community impacts, cultural resources, and the local economy, an Initial Study was completed for the project. Based upon environmental studies and proposed environmental commitments, including minimization and avoidance measures, incorporation of BMPs, limited hours of construction, the project will not have a significant effect on the environment. As a result, an ND was completed for this project.

The proposed new route connnection will be at Lenardo Drive. The specific proposal is to modify the Avalon Boulevard/I-405 interchange in the city of Carson to provide access to the approved development of the Carson Marketplace Project in the southwest quadrant of this interchange. The modifications to this interchange include the southerly extension of Lenardo Drive over the Torrance Lateral Channel to connect to Avalon Boulevard and the realignment of the southbound I-405 on and off ramps to begin and end at Lenardo Drive. This break in access control requires the approval of a new connection by the California Transportation Commission. The proposed improvements support the additional access needs of the Carson Marketplace Project and also address growing traffic volumes in the vicinity. The Avalon Boulevard interchange is located in the city of Carson, in Los Angeles County, between the Main Street and the Carson Street interchanges along I-405. I-405 has 12 lanes north of Avalon Boulevard and 10 lanes south of Avalon Boulevard. Traffic in the southbound direction is served by a loop on-ramp and a diagonal off-ramp in the southwest quadrant of the interchange. In the northbound direction the interchange is a half diamond. Avalon Boulevard is a major thoroughfare through the City of Carson with four to six lanes serving primarily residential, commercial, and light industrial traffic demands. The proposed interchange modification would extend the existing Lenardo Drive south from the proposed Carson Marketplace over the Torrance Lateral Channel to Avalon Boulevard. The existing southbound I-405 on- and off-ramps, located between the Torrance Lateral Channel and Avalon Boulevard, will be realigned and widened. A new two-lane southbound on-ramp will be constructed east of Avalon Boulevard and across from Lenardo Drive. The existing northbound off-ramp will be widened from one to three lanes at the terminus to increase storage capacity and to accommodate left turns. The northbound on-ramp will also be widened to increase capacity and accommodate two left-turn lanes from northbound Avalon Boulevard. The existing Avalon Boulevard structure will be widened and repaved.

In March 2016, the CTC approved additional funding for a project on Route 405 in Los Angeles County from LA 12.6 to LA 21.2 (essentially, from I-110 to I-105) that will install concrete barrier and metal beam guardrail along the project limits.

Route 110 / Route 405 Interchange Improvement (~ LA 12.875 to LA 13.013)

In March 2016, the Los Angeles MTA presented its full proposal for what transit lines could be built -- and when -- if Los Angeles County voters approve a half-cent sales tax increase in November 2016. This proposal included funding for the I-110 Express Lane Ext South to I-405/I-110 Interchange. The new project would extend the existing I-110 Express Lanes southward to the I-405, for a total of 1 mile. This will create a total of 5 Mixed-Flow lanes and 1 Express Lane for that mile. Additionally, the proposal included funding for direct connector ramps between the I-110 and I-405 express lanes. (~ LA 12.875)
(Source: Los Angeles Times 3/18/2016; Metro Board Report 3/24/2016)

In May 2018, it was reported that ground was broken for the 405/110 interchange project (~ LA 13.013). The $35-million I-110/I-405 interchange improvement project will widen the northbound San Diego Freeway connector to the southbound Harbor Freeway. A new auxiliary lane will also be constructed from the I-110/I-405 interchange to Del Amo Boulevard. Construction is anticipated to be completed in 2021. Metro provided seed funding for the project’s initial environmental work through its Measure R transportation sales tax that was approved by voters in 2008. The SB1 "gas tax" allowed the improvement project to be fast-tracked. Another $1.2 million of environmental work enabled the SBCCOG and Metro to have the project shovel-ready when the funding became available last fall.
(Source: Metro "The Source", 6/1/2018; DailyBreeze 6/1/2018, from which the graphic was snarfed)

In June 2020, it was reported that the northbound I-405 freeway connector to the southbound I-110 freeway in Carson would close over the weekend for a $50 million road widening and realignment project. The project will add a new lane between the on and off-ramps from the I-405/I-110 interchange to Del Amo Boulevard, increasing the capacity of the connector, in an attempt to improve traffic flow and reduce backups. After the closure, traffic will be on the new configuration for the connector. The article noted that work is 90% done, and the project is tentatively scheduled to complete by the end of October 2020.
(Source: Daily Breeze, 6/26/2020)

In Fall 2022, LA Metro included, as a potential project in its "I-405 Comprehensive Multimodal Corridor Plan", a proposed project that will construct ExpressLanes from I-110 to I-105. The project was ranked in tier 2B.
(Source: Los Angeles Metro, "I-405 Comprehensive Multimodal Corridor Plan", Fall 2022, Appendix E: CMCP Projects List)

In March 2016, the Los Angeles MTA presented its full proposal for what transit lines could be built -- and when -- if Los Angeles County voters approve a half-cent sales tax increase in November 2016. This proposal included funding for I-405 South Bay Curve Improvements. The project will add segments of an Auxiliary Lane in each direction to address existing bottleneck and to improve the weaving movements at on/off ramps, from I-110 to Florence Ave. for a total of 10.4 miles, while maintaining the current existing facility consisting of 4 Mixed-Flow lanes and 1 HOV lanes in each direction. (~ LA 13.118 to LA 23.503)
(Source: Los Angeles Times 3/18/2016; Metro Board Report 3/24/2016)

Note: The above project seems related to a project in the "I-405 Comprehensive Multimodal Corridor Plan" that would add one or two lanes to NB and SB I-405 between I-110 and the Inglewood northern border, including possibly transit oriented fixed guideways. This had an N/A tiering, and had a ⚑ instead of the usual impact rating.
(Source: Los Angeles Metro, "I-405 Comprehensive Multimodal Corridor Plan", Fall 2022, Appendix E: CMCP Projects List)

Crenshaw Interchange (~ LA 15.451)

In June 2015, it was reported that Caltrans was seeking public reaction to an environmental analysis prepared for the pending reconstruction of the chronically congested Crenshaw Boulevard and 182nd Street interchange with I-405 that’s scheduled to start in July 2018. The complex, four-year-long project is expected to cost $60.5 million to $85.2 million for its design and construction depending on which of three alternatives is selected. The entire interchange is persistently overloaded, a situation that worsens considerably during rush hour. Short on- and off-ramps create potentially dangerous lines of vehicles on surface streets and on the freeway itself, hampering the efficiency of I-405. Improvements to be made include: (•) Adding an additional lane to the existing freeway on‐ and off- ramps and constructing a new two-lane on‐ramp to the SB I-405 from Crenshaw Boulevard; (•) Widening Crenshaw Boulevard south of the interchange to make room for a new, exclusive right-turn lane onto the proposed new southbound on-ramp; (•) Widening westbound 182nd Street between the NB I-405 on- and off-ramps and Crenshaw Boulevard; and (•) Building or reconstructing more than more than 12,000 feet of sound walls.
(Source: Daily Breeze, 6/24/2015)

In October 2016, the CTC approved for future consideration of funding a project in Los Angeles County that will widen I-405, including the existing on- and off-ramps on Crenshaw Boulevard, and construct a new southbound on-ramp from Crenshaw Boulevard. The project is not fully funded. The project is fully funded for the environmental phase only with local funds. The total estimated cost is $87,100,000 for capital and support. Depending on the availability of funding, construction is estimated to begin in Fiscal Year 2020.

The 2018 STIP, approved at the CTC March 2018 meeting, appears to allocate $12,000K for PPNO 4410, Crenshaw Blvd Interchange Improvements. This would be construction support in FY22-23, meaning the project is delayed.

In March 2020, the CTC approved the 2020 STIP, which appears to move the programmed funding for PPNO 4451 "Rt 405/Crenshaw Blvd, ramp improvement" from FY22-23 to FY20-21.
(Source: March 2020 CTC Agenda, Item 4.7, 2020 STIP Adopted 3/25/2020)

In December 2020, the CTC approved the following allocation for State Administered STIP Projects on the State Highway System: $12,000,000 for Con Eng for 07-LA-405 PM 14.3/15.8. PPNO 07-4451 ProjID 0713000238 EA 29360. I-405 at Crenshaw Boulevard Ramp Improvement. In Los Angeles County, in the city of Torrance, between Western Avenue and West 182nd Street/Crenshaw Boulevard. Add a new I-405 on-ramp at Crenshaw Boulevard, increase storage capacity on the existing on/off ramps and add auxiliary lanes on the I-405 on both directions. (CEQA - ND, 06/29/2016; Re-validation 05/12/2020) (NEPA - FONSI, 06/29/2016; Re-validation 05/12/2020) (Right of Way Certification: 09/11/2020) (Future consideration of funding approved under Resolution E-16-72; October 2016.)
(Source: December 2020 CTC Agenda, Agenda Item 2.5c.(1) #2)

The SAFETEA-LU act, enacted in August 2005 as the reauthorization of TEA-21, provided the following expenditures for this route:

High Priority Project #1609. Project Study Reports for I-105 and I-405 Interchanges at Los Angeles International Airport. $320,000. (~ LA R20.992)

LAX to West Los Angeles

In Fall 2022, LA Metro included, as a potential project in its "I-405 Comprehensive Multimodal Corridor Plan", a proposed project that will construct ExpressLanes from I-105 to I-10. The project was ranked in tier 2B.
(Source: Los Angeles Metro, "I-405 Comprehensive Multimodal Corridor Plan", Fall 2022, Appendix E: CMCP Projects List)

In Fall 2022, LA Metro included, as a potential project in its "I-405 Comprehensive Multimodal Corridor Plan", a proposed project that will construct HOV connectors from I-105 WB to NB and SB I-405. The project was ranked in tier 3.
(Source: Los Angeles Metro, "I-405 Comprehensive Multimodal Corridor Plan", Fall 2022, Appendix E: CMCP Projects List)

In August 2015, the CTC authorized $14,130,000 for a project in Los Angeles County, on I-405 in and near the cities of Inglewood, Culver City, and Los Angeles, from 0.2 mile north of El Segundo Boulevard to Venice Boulevard (Route 187) (~ LA 20.413 to LA 27.983) that will rehabilitate 56 lane miles of pavement by replacing cracked slabs, grinding concrete pavement, overlaying ramp and shoulder asphalt pavement, installing new guardrail, and paving miscellaneous areas. This project is necessary to extend pavement service life and improve ride quality.

[Arbor-Vitae Map] There are continual discussions about adding an interchange at Arbor-Vitae (~ LA 22.759). Based on an article in the Daily Breeze, the plan is based on a much earlier plan to construct a new interchange along I-405 at Arbor Vitae Street. The project was original initiated by Los Angeles World Airports (Los Angeles Department of Airports at the time) in 1976 to provide an alternate East-West access route between I-405 and the Los Angeles International Airport. This project was part of a larger project proposed in 1980 and scheduled to be constructed in 1984. However, the Arbor Vitae Interchange had been postponed multiple times due to funding considerations. The current version of the project entailing the south half of the interchange and widening of the Arbor Vitae Bridge was going to be constructed in 2002. However, the delivery of this project was postponed for three reasons: First, opposition from local residents, who live adjacent to the proposed project, and the Inglewood Unified School District Board was prevalent during the public comment periods; second, the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) did not support the construction of the full interchange, and led to the current south half version of the interchange. Third, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) would only approve an environmental document that includes the full interchange. It lacks support from local elected officials. At this time, this project is programmed through the Project Approval/Environmental Document [PA/ED] phase (the current phase). There is only partial funding currently programmed for the construction of this proposed project; an additional $37 million is needed to construct this project. If approved, the project will be funded from the State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) and the Regional Transportation Improvement Program (RTIP). The proposal called for a new south-half interchange, including a southbound on-ramp to I-405 from a widened Arbor Vitae overpass, as well as a northbound off-ramp from the freeway to the street. The project’s purpose is to reduce congestion at the Century Boulevard and Manchester Boulevard interchanges by creating along Arbor Vitae Street, from the I-405, a new direct vehicle access to and from the Hollywood Park Casino, the University of West Los Angeles, the Forum, and Centinela Hospital. The project would result in the agency taking nine homes and two businesses - down from roughly 50 homes under an earlier plan, which also encroached on an Inglewood school site, according to planning documents. A later meeting indicated a fair amount of opposition to the plan. In September 2010, it was reported that Caltrans had cancelled plans for this interchange. Specifically, Caltrans chose the "no-build" alternative - which was based on several factors, including the project's anticipated effects on traffic conditions along local streets, community opposition as well as funding. The agency needed roughly another $30 million to fund the estimated $82 million project. Additionally, a Caltrans letter stated that the Federal Highway Administration failed to grant the exception needed to build the proposed half-interchange.

In Fall 2022, LA Metro included, as a potential project in its "I-405 Comprehensive Multimodal Corridor Plan", a proposed project that will realign the SB I-405 from Manchester where it bends sharply just N of Manchester. The project was ranked in tier 3.
(Source: Los Angeles Metro, "I-405 Comprehensive Multimodal Corridor Plan", Fall 2022, Appendix E: CMCP Projects List)

In October 2014, the CTC authorized additional funding for the project in Culver City, from La Tijera Boulevard on-ramp to Jefferson Boulevard off-ramp (~ LA 24.282 to LA 25.752), that will construct an auxiliary lane to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion. The project widens and seismically retrofits the Centinela Avenue Undercrossing (No. 53-1253) and the Sepulveda Boulevard Undercrossing (No. 53-1254 ). The Howard Hughes Parkway on-ramp and the Sepulveda Boulevard off-ramp will also be realigned and widened as part of the project. The project also constructs retaining walls to accommodate the widened roadway. The project relieves congestion by improving traffic operations.

In 2008-2009, Caltrans widened I-405 from ten to twelve lanes from Route 90 to I-10 (~ LA 25.72 to LA 29.429). This project added one HOV lane northbound. It resulted in signficant changes in the Culver Blvd offramp. The the previous NB exit that deposited Culver traffic at Braddock and Sawtelle was removed; it was replaced by a direct offramp at Culver. A similar change was made for southbound traffic. The lanes were opened in November 2009. The $167 million widening project took five years to complete, and added carpool lanes and exit lanes on the freeway. The five main traffic lanes in each direction were widened from 10 feet wide to 12 feet, and the often-uneven asphalt surface next to the center divider was replaced with concrete.
(Source: KCBS 11/7/2009)

In December 2013, the CTC authorized relinquishment of right of way in the city of Culver City adjacent to Route 405 between Sawtelle Boulevard and Barman Avenue, consisting of a reconstructed city street (~ LA 27.046).

In 1989, the CTC relinquished roadway that predated Route 405 (i.e., former Route 7): Sepulveda Blvd between I-405 and Slauson. (~ LA 26.029)

The SAFETEA-LU act, enacted in August 2005 as the reauthorization of TEA-21, provided the following expenditures for this route: (~ LA 29.429 to LA 39.183)

National Corridor Infrastructure Improvement Program #18: I-405 HOV Lane. This refers to the major missing segment of HOV lane, northbound, between I-10 and N of US 101. $100,000,000.
Transportation Improvement #20: Widen Northbound I-405 between I-10 and US 101 for HOV lane. $30,000,000.

I-10 to Waterford HOV Lanes (~ LA 29.677 to LA 32.126)

In 2008, a project was completed that widened the freeway and added southbound HOV lanes between Waterford St and 0.5 km S of I-10. This section of the freeway was origianlly constructed on a fill segment between 1958 and 1963. It was an eight-lane facility consisting of four 12 ft lanes, with 8-10 ft shoulders and a 22 ft median. Later restriping reduced this to a non-standard 11 ft lanes, with the median being used to add two mixed flow lanes and a 4 ft non-standard half-median. The project widened the existing freeway to add an 11.8 ft HOV lane, and a 2 ft buffer next to the median. The five existing mixed flow lanes were restriped even narrower as four 10.8 ft lanes and one 11.8 ft lane. A 9.8 ft outside shoulder, and a 3.3 ft half median was also provided. To eliminate weaving conditions, two auxiliary lanes were added. One was added upstream of the SB off-ramp to WB Wilshire Blvd, and included widening of the off-ramp. The second was added between the SB I-405 on-ramp from Santa Monica Blvd and the SB I-405 off-ramp at Olympic Blvd. The current auxiliary lane between Santa Monica Blvd and Wilshire Blvd was maintained. Additionally, the Waterford Street on-ramp SB was closed. The total cost for this project is $74.4 million, with an estimated completion of August 2006 (although this date was not met). This is TCRP Project 52. It was completed around 2008.

In June 2017, the CTC was informed that, for TCRP Project 52 - Route 405; HOV and Auxiliary Lanes – Waterford Avenue to Route 10 (PPNO T0520), the authorized amount was $25,000,000, of which $9,648,000 was previously programmed and allocated to the project. Due to the suspension of TCRP funding in 2003, this project was delivered with other State funds, leaving $15,352,000 in unallocated TCRP funds on the project. In June 2016, the Commission approved a TCRP policy for projects programmed in Tier 2 and in January 2017, funding for Tier 2 programmed projects became available. TCRP 52 is currently on the Tier 2 list for $15,352,000. The Department and Metro propose to amend Project 52 to de-program $15,352,000 in TCRP savings and update the project funding plan and transfer the funds to fund TCRP Project 38.2, Los Angeles -San Fernando Valley Transit Extension and TCRP 50, Route 71.

LA Metro Improvements - HOT/Tunnel, West LA to San Fernando Valley

In March 2016, the Los Angeles MTA presented its full proposal for what transit lines could be built -- and when -- if Los Angeles County voters approve a half-cent sales tax increase in November 2016. This proposal included funding for some form of Sepulveda Pass Transit Corridor. The specific approach was not specified: it could be a new high capacity transit mode connecting the Orange Line Van Nuys station underneath the Sepulveda Pass, with a station at UCLA, terminating at Wilshire/Westwood Purple Line station. Approximately 8.8 miles. The project might also include restriping the HOV lanes within the existing Right of Way to add 2 ExpressLanes in each direction (while maintaining the current 4 Mixed-Flow Lanes), from US-101 to I-10 for a total of 10 miles. There have also been rumors of a private vehicle toll tunnel under the Sepulveda Pass.
(Source: Los Angeles Times 3/18/2016; Metro Board Report 3/24/2016)

In March 2016, the Los Angeles MTA presented its full proposal for what transit lines could be built -- and when -- if Los Angeles County voters approve a half-cent sales tax increase in November 2016. This proposal included funding for I-105 Express Lanes from I-405 to I-605. The project would re-stripe the existing HOV lane to create 2 Express Lanes in each direction for a total of 16 miles, while maintaining current number of mixed flow lanes in each direction.
(Source: Los Angeles Times 3/18/2016; Metro Board Report 3/24/2016)

In Fall 2022, LA Metro included, as a potential project in its "I-405 Comprehensive Multimodal Corridor Plan", a proposed project that will convert the HOV lanes from I-10 to US 101 into ExpressLanes. The project was ranked in tier 3.
(Source: Los Angeles Metro, "I-405 Comprehensive Multimodal Corridor Plan", Fall 2022, Appendix E: CMCP Projects List)

Sepulveda Pass Improvements / Initial HOV and Widening, Waterford to US 101 (~ LA 32.126 to LA 39.2)

Inst 405 HOV map Northbound, there are plans to add an HOV lane between I-10 and US 101. In September 2000, the California Transportation Commission considered a proposal (Traffic Congestion Relief Program Project 39) to add the northbound HOV lane over Sepulveda Pass, from I-10 to US 101. Phase 1 of the proposal was estimated to cost $15 million, with a total cost of $336 million. This is TCRP Project #39, and has an estimated completion date sometime in the year 2016, with construction starting in 2006. The desired goal is 6 mix-flow and 2 HOV lanes in each direction, but initially there will be one HOV lane and five mixed flow lanes. It was requested by the LA County Metropolitan Transportation Authority.

The project will provide a continuous HOV system on Route I-405 by closing a gap in the current system. Estimates to add the HOV lane range from $500 million to $750 million. Work on the environmental phase of the project began in Fiscal Year 2000-01. Severe fiscal crises in the following years resulted in the temporary suspension of various transportation funding sources, including TCRP. Due to the prospective lack of funds to proceed beyond the Environmental phase, the Department delayed work on this project. However, with the appropriation of Proposition 42 funds, and $130,000,000 in new federal earmark funds (SAFETEA-LU), the environmental phase began. During this phase, the Department identifies individual segments for construction. The Federal earmark funds of $130,000,000, along with the remaining un-programmed $75 million of TCRP funds will be used to deliver one or more these segments. The schedule and funding plan are for environmental only. This phase is scheduled to complete in July 2008.

A 2006 bond measure provided additional funding for completion of the northbound HOV route system. This has gone through a lot of funding hurdles, especially in relation to funds from the 2006 Corridor Mobility Improvement Account. Originally, the project was not recommended because it was believed construction would start too late. The decision was later rescinded, and the project was approved for $730 million in funding. The total cost of the project is $950 million. As of March 2007, Caltrans had five proposals for this construction:

Alternative 1: No Build
Alternative 2: The widening of the existing facility to add a northbound HOV lane.
Alternative 3: The widening of the existing facility to add a northbound HOV lane and restore southbound freeway lane and shoulder widths to current design standards.
Alternative 4: The widening of the existing facility to provide for four HOV lanes (two each, both northbound and southbound) on an elevated viaduct, within the freeway median
Alternative 5: Transit Enhancement Alternative. This would involve design features that would facilitate increased transit use in the corridor.

Many of these alternatives are engendering quite a bit of controversy, especially Alternative 3, which would involve the taking of a significant amount of property, including churches, hotels, and multi-family residences in an affulent area. Specifically, Caltrans has noted that the most extensive plan (Alternative 3, about $911 million) takes up to seven Sherman Oaks homes and thirty Brentwood properties. This alternative is present because the narrower SB lanes have a higher accident rate. Alternative 2 (about $649 million) would still take the seven Sherman Oaks homes, and portions of about forty, and leave the southbound side of I-405 unchanged.
(Source: Los Angeles Times)

In July 2007, Caltrans released a modification to the plan that appeared more acceptable. This modification would add a mixed flow lane SB between Skirball Center and Waterford St., close the SB I-405 on-ramp from EB Sunset Blvd, reconfiguring the intersection to direct traffic to use the SB entrance just N of Sunset Blvd., and realigning portions of Sepulveda Blvd. There would also be realingment of the Skirball Center ramps.There would also be relocation of the Valley Vista ramps SB. The option would also move I-405 east, permitting a simple narrowing of Church Lane, instead of relocation (and thus saving a lot of properties). In August 2007, the CTC approved programming $27,000,000 in new TCRP funds for Plans, Specifications and Estimates (PS&E) for this project, and changed the Phase 2 completion date to FY10/11. Without widening, traffic on I-405, described as one of the worst in the nation, is forecast to increase 46% from 2005 to 2031.

In February 2008, it was announced that Caltrans had decided on a plan that will result in only a few homes being taken, in the vicinity of Valley Vista Blvd. This appears to be the less-severe option (the July 2007 modification), which itself has had a few modifications.
(Source: LA Daily News, 2/25/2008)

In June 2008, the CTC approved the selected alternative for the Route 405 construction. The alternative selected was Alternative 2: which widens the facility solely to add a NB HOV lane. This alternative will still take seven Sherman Oaks homes, and portions of about forty, but it will leave the southbound side of I-405 unchanged. The NB roadway will meet current design standards for lane, median, and shoulder widths except at the I-10/I-405 interchange and between Moraga Dr. and Sunset Blvd interchanges. Standard lanes consist of an 11' half median, a 12' HOV lane, a 1' HOV buffer, 5 12' mixed-flow lanes, and a 10' outside shoulder. The selected alternative would also widen the SB I-405 to meet current design standards for lane, median, and shoulder widths at certain sections. SB standardization would be within the following segments: Olympic Blvd and Waterford St, and between Bel Air Crest to the north end of the project. Local interchanges within the project limits would be reconstructed and improved notably at Wilshire Blvd, Sunset Blvd, and Skirball Center Drive. There is the goal that wall designs be compatible with the surrounding community. There are also plans to improve wildlife crossings.

In early 2009, it looked like the project might be out of luck, due to a $730 million shortfall. The project was supposed to begin in mid-May, largely paid for with bond revenue awarded in 2007. However, that money was temporarily rescinded in December 2008 as the Legislature struggled to close a $42 billion deficit. As of April 2009, the freeway project has about $378 million - including the $200 million in stimulus money - enough to continue the project for 15 months. About $13 million in local money and $48 million from a state traffic relief program are secured for the lane. The federal government has kicked in $117 million, separate from the stimulus money, contingent on construction starting in 2009. The LA MTA eventually decided to start the project, hoping that they could come up with the money later. Although the MTA has just a fraction of the project's $1 billion price tag, construction of the 10-mile northbound car-pool lane should begin in summer 2009. The project, approved by the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority board, is expected to create some 18,000 construction jobs and be completed in 2013. The MTA still needs to raise $614 million — money originally approved by voters in a bond measure but withheld by the state as it grappled with its massive budget deficit — to complete the project. In case the remaining money never materializes, the Metro board agreed to set aside $30 million to cover the costs of suspending or ending construction contracts. In early May 2009, MTA will award a $712 million construction contract to Kiewit Pacific Co. for the widening project. With $372 million in hand, there is enough money to keep the project going for 15 months. That will pay to relocate water, gas and phone lines and work on some freeway ramp widening.
(Source: LA Daily News, April 2009)

In April 2009, the CTC approved funding this project (as a loan against future bonds) from 2009 Stimulus funds.

Construction on this project started in January 2010. The project includes a 10-mile HOV lane on the northbound I-405 between I-10 and US-101; removal and replacement of the Skirball Center, Sunset Blvd. and Mulholland Dr. bridges; realingment of 27 on and off ramps; widening of 13 existing underpasses and structures; and construction of approximately 18 miles of retaining wall and sound wall. The construction work is quite complicated. Every task - from setting up K-rails and street cones to excavating foothills and readjusting freeway lanes - must be managed between 10p and 6a. Crews must minimize the noise and ensure that their lights don't shine into windows or along wildlife corridors. They must also avoid the inordinate number of oil and gas lines under the route and utility poles alongside the route.

In May 2010, work began on the demolition of the Sunset Blvd bridge. Mostly this has been preparation work: relocation of utilities, restriping of lanes, etc. It was estimated the bridge demolition would begin in mid-May, but as of late June no demolition had started. The plan is to keep the bridge open as it is rebuilt. The southern half of the bridge was completed in July 2010.

Inst 405 skirball center bridge In October 2010, demolition work began on the Skirball Center bridge. Demolition went fast, and was the northern half was completed in October 2010. There are two options being considered regarding the Skirball Center ramps. The first would keep the ramps where they are. The second would relocate the SB ramps south of the current Skirball bridge. The preferred option, based on traffic analysis, is the relocation of the ramps. This has the additional benefits of adding a lane to Skirball Center Drive E of I-405, adding a sidewalk to the W side of Skirball Center Drive from the new Mulholland Bridge to the Skirball bridge, adding a sidewalk to the N side of the bridge, and having more space for bicyclists on the bridge. There will also be new signage directing visitors to the Skirball Cultural Center, a dedicated northbound right-turn lane between new SB ramps and Skirball Bridge, bicycle lanes on Sepulveda Bl between Skirball Bridge and new southbound ramps, and southbound hook ramps that provide greater ramp storage capacity. There will also be a dedicated right-turn lane from northbound Sepulveda Bl onto new southbound I-405 on-ramp, and a dedicated double left-turn lane from southbound Sepulveda Bl onto southbound I-405.

In September 2010, it was reported that Caltrans and Metro have finally decided to alter the way the impressively high, 1959-era Mulholland Drive bridge is replaced during the I-405 widening project: they will build an all-new bridge before they tear down the old bridge. This actually saves $4 million to $10 million over juggling the two projects. Coming from the west, drivers would enter the new bridge in the same place they do now, then angle slightly south across the freeway before ending up on Skirball Center Drive. Only after the new span was completed would the old one come down, thus reducing traffic-related inconvenience during construction. However, those plans were changed in early 2011 back to the original approach due to complaints from those in the area. There was concern from residents and environmentalists about increased traffic congestion and threats to wildlife; there were also demands that the new bridge be designed by a world-class architect (which was the deal-breaker, cost-wise, for Metro).

In October 2010, an article was published that highlights the problems in this construction. Consider utility relocation. Shell, Chevron, Exxon and Mobil each have oil pipelines through the pass. SCS Energy has a natural gas pipeline to UCLA. There are fiber optics lines. Southern California Gas Company and Southern California Edison bring gas and electricity to their customers through the pass. Verizon and ATT connect residences and business via the Sepulveda Pass, and the Metropolitan Water District has a 96-inch-diameter water line under Sepulveda Boulevard. Some of those utilities run along and through the three bridges to be replaced—Sunset, Skirball and Mulholland—complicating their demolition and reconstruction.

Inst 405 Wilshire Ramps In December 2010, it was reported that the project will involve reconfiguration of the southbound Wilshire Blvd interchange, adding flyover ramps to eliminate the intercrossing of exiting and entering traffic. Currently, vehicles trying to get off the freeway onto Wilshire must jockey with other vehicles entering the freeway. Under the new configuration, the on ramps and off ramps are completely separate.

In May 2012, it was reported that the rampture would begin in June 2012. This is the first 90 day closure of the Wilshire ramps. This closure includes the Westbound Wilshire on-ramp to Northbound I-405, and the Northbound I-405 off-ramp to Westbound Wilshire. The six other Wilshire ramps will be closed consecutively, some two at a time, between 14 and 90 days. The image below provides additional details:
(Source: Metro.Net)

Rampture In July 2011 (the weekend of July 15-16), "Carmageddon" has been predicted as Caltrans closes the entire I-405 freeway roughly between Sunset Blvd and US 101 in order to demolish half of the Mulholland Bridge. Details here. The following is a description of how the southbound portion of the bridge is being demolished:

The demolition timeline will begin Friday evening, July 15, 2011 when work crews begin closing freeway on- and off-ramps between the I-10 and US 101 as early as 7 p.m. to prevent additional vehicles from entering into the closure area. Crews will then begin closing freeway lanes one by one on both sides of the freeway at 10 p.m. in order to achieve a full freeway closure by midnight. The Mulholland Bridge also will be closed. The area surrounding the Mulholland Bridge will be lit up like the Astrodome utilizing two very large light plants and about 12 regular light plants. Staged in nearby project construction yards and other areas, 15 pieces of heavy construction equipment (with another five on standby) and an army of 100 demolition workers and support staff will be poised to begin their precision operation. Starting at 12 midnight, trucks will begin to haul dirt onto the 405 freeway underneath the Mulholland Bridge to form a cushion four feet high on the freeway roadbed. The dirt will catch falling debris and prevent concrete pieces from damaging the freeway lanes. At approximately 2 a.m. Saturday morning, workers will use a large diamond-bladed saw to cut the bridge top deck and soffit to safely demolish the southern half while keeping the northern half structurally sound. Workers also will cut slots in the southern side of the bridge to quicken the demolition process. During demolition work, workers will perform vibration monitoring and other tests to ensure the structural integrity of the northern side of the bridge is retained at all times. At approximately 5 a.m. Saturday morning, as many as four “hoe rams,” or rolling jack hammers of various sizes will begin to chip away at the south side of the bridge. Approximately 4,000 tons of concrete will be removed in the first phase of demolition work. Two Hoe rams will be stationed on the bridge deck starting in the center working toward each end. Once they have reached the ends of the bridge, two hoe rams will begin to work on the ground also starting in the center and working toward both ends. These giant and powerful demolition machines will deliver between 1,200 and 7,500 foot-pounds of power to break away concrete from the bridge. This compares to 90 foot-pounds delivered by a common hand-held jack hammer. Operators in these machines will be able to deliver between 300 and 600 blows per minute on the concrete decking to break pieces into sizes no bigger than a basketball or microwave oven which can then be easily hauled away from the demolition site. Later, the concrete will be pulverized and recycled. The bridge’s railing will also be taken down by hoe-ram. Front-end loaders will also be used during the demolition to load demolition debris into trucks. While the hoe rams steadily chip away at the concrete, other workers using long-handled oxygen/acetylene torches will cut the steel rebar from the bridge deck amid a crackle of sparks. Workers will be tied to a secure anchor and will be wearing fall protection equipment as they work. Workers will continue to cut the rebar into smaller pieces on the ground so that it can also be recycled. This demolition work is expected to last throughout Sunday, July 17 as crews also demolish the bride’s south columns, leaving the other two columns in-tact to support the north side of the bridge. Once the demolition operation is complete, an army of laborers will thoroughly clean the edge of the bridge to assure that no particles are left to fall on the traffic below. Finally, the remaining portion of the bridge will be inspected by structural engineers from Kiewit and Caltrans. This demo work is expected to last until 2 a.m. Monday morning, July 18, when crews will wrap up demolition and begin their final cleanup to prepare the freeway for reopening by 5 a.m. Between 10 and 20 large trucks and several front end loaders will be used for the cleanup. The freeway surface under the bridge will be cleaned by a parade of street sweepers, inspected, and finally restriped with fresh paint. Ramps and freeway connectors will reopen by 6 a.m.

Debris from the demolished bridges has been used for the construction of the Metro Orange Line in Chatsworth.

The second "carmageddon" occured the weekend of September 29, 2012.

Larry Scholnick provided a good summary of all the work involved in this simple HOV lane addition: The basic goal of the project is to install a northbound HOV (carpool) lane from I-10 (where the NB HOV lane becomes a regular, mixed-flow lane) to US-101 (where the NB HOV lane resumes). No additional regular, mixed-flow lanes will be built; there will continue to be 5/6 NB through lanes (5 South of Skirball Center and 6 North of Skirball Center) and 5/4/5 SB through lanes (5 north of Skirball Center, 4 between Skirball Center and Waterford, and 5 south of Waterford). At first glance it seems like the freeway should only be widened by 12 feet. However, there are currently no center breakdown lanes on either side of the freeway, so this project will add those lanes. At second glance it seems like the freeway will be widened by (12+10+10) 32 feet. However, the existing lanes are about a foot narrower than the current 12-foot standard, so all 10+ existing lanes (5+ NB plus 4+ SB plus one SB-HOV) will we widened by a foot, so the total widening will be over 40 feet. For the section between Olympic and Santa Monica Blvds this is comparatively easy because there is extra right-of-way that was originally intended for the connectors to the (never-built) Beverly Hills (CA-2) Freeway. The interchange with Wilshire Blvd is a full cloverleaf, made up of four onramps and four offramps. Each ramp has a tight turning radius, typical of 1960's construction. In order to eliminate weaving, and to modernize the interchange, all 8 ramps will be torn down and replaced. The ramps will be replaced in pairs; WB-NB & NB-EB will be replaced first. When complete there will be flyover ramps that will eliminate weaving; EB-NB will fly over NB-WB, and SB-EB will fly over WB-SB. The new ramps that include bridges over Sepulveda will leave room for a wider Sepulveda to go under. Every bridge where the freeway crosses OVER a surface street (Exposition, Pico, Olympic, Santa Monica, Ohio, Wilshire, Constitution, Montana, Church, Getty Center, Sepulveda near Getty Center, Bel Air Crest, Sepulveda near Valley Vista and perhaps Ventura) will be widened. All onramps and offramps that are not being replaced will be realigned to the widened freeway. Each bridge where the freeway crosses UNDER a surface street (Sunset, Skirball Center, and Mulholland) will be replaced with a bridge that is wider in both dimensions – room for the wider freeway below and more lanes on the surface street above. In each case the old bridge will be sliced in half (lengthwise), leaving half of the bridge standing while the other half is demolished and replaced. Once the first new half is complete, traffic will be switched to the new half and the other half will be demolished and replaced. The NB Montana offramp will be eliminated, just as its SB counterpart (Waterford) was eliminated several years ago. The convoluted NB ramps at Getty Center will be replaced by regular 'diamond' ramps, similar to the SB ramps at Getty Center. The SB ramps at Skirball Center will be replaced by a new half- interchange along Sepulveda, just north of Mountaingate; the new SB 'Skirball Center' ramps will be about 1/2 mile south of the Skirball Center bridge. In most areas, the centerline of the freeway will not shift significantly; the freeway will be widened by approximately equal amounts on each side; however, since there is no room for widening on the west side of the freeway through the community of Brentwood Glen (where Church Lane, the only north-south road through the area is right next to the west side of the freeway), the entire widening through this area will be on the east side of the freeway. Since Sepulveda is right next to the east side of the freeway, the hillside east of Sepulveda between Montana and Sunset has been torn down; most of the lanes of Sepulveda will be where the hillside was and the freeway widening will cover most of the existing lanes of Sepulveda.

In February 2013, a replacement on-ramp at Skirball Drive to I-405 SB opened. This new ramp is 2,000 feet south of the Skirball Bridge, and is one of the key roadway improvements in this billion dollar freeway widening project. The new ramp provides greater ramp storage capacity for vehicles entering and exiting I-405, as well as providing dedicated turn-lanes on Sepulveda Boulevard for cars entering and exiting the freeway. The construction also provides new bike routes on Sepulveda Boulevard between Skirball Center Drive and the new southbound on- and off-ramps, as well as a simpler design for the Sepulveda Boulevard/Skirball Center Drive intersection, resulting in a safer intersection.

In April 2013, it was reported that the project was behind schedule. Work on the end sections was proceeding according to schedule, and the project team has achieved a substantial amount of work to date, including new Wilshire on and off-ramps, a new and wider Sunset Bridge, I-10 interchange improvements, Sepulveda Boulevard improvements and a new on-ramp at Skirball. By the end of 2013, the project anticipates completing all bridges and utility work will be nearly complete with project ramps, underpasses, soundwalls and retaining walls. However, structural failure of miles of new sound walls that had to be demolished and rebuilt, a legal wrangle over the placement of ramps near the Getty Center and the complex logistics of finding and relocating more than a dozen utility lines under Sepulveda Boulevard have created delays. Tthe project is now slated to take at least a year longer than first anticipated and cost about $100 million more than the originally budgeted $1 billion. Officials now aim to complete the bulk of the project by June 2014, with work on the problematic middle segment between Montana Avenue and Sunset Boulevard lasting perhaps until fall 2014. The delays so frustrated Elon Musk of SpaceX that he donated $50K to an advocacy group (although some reports made it seem as if he donated to speed up construction).
(Source: LA Metro 2/22/13, LosAngeles Times 4/24/13, LA Times 4/25/13)

In June 2013, it was reported that the construction project is reportedly $100 million over budget and to cover the cost overrun the Metro board asked staff to look into implementing a congestion pricing program for the 405 HOV lanes.

In August 2013, it was reported that Metro is seriously exploring the idea of a subway/expressway tunnel(s) under I-405 freeway. Theproject has been fast-tracked; in fact,the transit agency could be looking for funding partners within a year. Work could begin within 2 to 3 years. To build a tunnel or two of them under the freeway it could take 4 to 5 years. The funding would be from a private-public partnership which could involve big international construction and financial companies. Without such a Public Private Partnership (P3) this would have taken 20 to 30 years to pull off. The estimated cost of such a project is in the area of $10 Billion. There is Measure R tax money of one billion that could be used. The other 9 would come from private investors (P3) who would get their money back from expressway tolls if such a roadway is part of the project and/or fees for subway service. The present thinking is a train/expressway system that uses two tunnels or one very large one. The first phase would be through the 10 mile Sepulveda Pass, but it would eventually be expanded from Sylmar, in the San Fernando Valley, all the way through to LAX. That would be a 28 mile system. It could be anywhere from 60 to 90 feet below the surface. Given the steep incline and decline in the pass distances would vary from one part to another since trains need to run on a flat surface. The diameter of a tunnel might be 60 to 70 feet depending on whether there is one or two. Unlike the tunneling done for the Red Line the burrowing equipment is much different and considerably improved than when our first subway was built. Burrowing so far underground would also limit disruption to construction weary residents in the pass. There are no fault lines to present quake problems.
(Source: MyFoxLA, 8/22/13)

In early November 2013, work on the Wilshire ramps was completed and all on- and off-ramps were opened. In late November, the Montana offramp from the NB I-405 was permanently closed (and its removal was started).

In late May 2014, the HOV lanes opened for service, although landscaping, signage, and retaining wall work still remained. Caltrans took the opportunity to provide some statistics on the project. Enough concrete was used on the project to build four Staple Centers, enough dirt was moved to fill 100,000 dump trucks and enough rebar installed to build 15,000 Volkswagen beetles. They also provided the following summary of the improvements:

Upon completion of the work, there are now HOV lanes on I-405 for 36 miles in both directions between the Orange County line and the northern San Fernando Valley, where I-405 merges into the Golden State Freeway. Metro is also studying a new express bus that would run between Westwood and the northern San Fernando Valley using the HOV lane on the 405. Measure R also provides $1 billion in seed money for a separate transit project that would span the Sepulveda Pass. Initial studies are underway and among the alternatives being evaluated is a transit tunnel under the pass, perhaps to be accompanied by a tolled tunnel for motor traffic.
The on- and off-ramps at Wilshire Boulevard were rebuilt with flyover ramps to eliminate bottlenecks from cars exiting I-405 mixing with cars trying to enter. The ramps were also expanded to hold more vehicles. For example, the ramp from eastbound Wilshire to northbound I-405 is 3,129-feet long — 500 feet longer than the ramp it replaced — and has 280 percent more capacity. The southbound off-ramp from I-405 to eastbound Wilshire now has 134 percent more capacity.
The new Sunset Boulevard Bridge is higher, longer and significantly wider at 120 feet — approximately 30 feet wider than before the project. It features two additional traffic lanes and higher capacity on- and off-ramps to improve area traffic flows and reduce congestion on local streets. Motorists will now enjoy dedicated turn lanes to access freeway ramps, and motorists traveling east/west through the bridge will be able to do so more quickly.
The new Mulholland Bridge is 10 feet wider than the one it replaced and built to modern seismic standards. A new sidewalk was added on the south side of the bridge.
The ramp from westbound I-10 to northbound I-405 was widened and other improvements were made to ramps at the extremely busy I-10/I-405 junction.
The I-405 on- and off-ramps that serve Skirball Center Drive were demolished and rebuilt 2,000 feet south of their former location. This should help ease the traffic crunch at the intersection of Skirball Center Drive and Mulholland and make it easier to exit and enter the freeway. The new ramps also hold more than 200 additional vehicles.
Among other improvements: new turn lanes for those entering I-405 from Sepulveda Boulevard, new sidewalks, curbs and gutters along Sepulveda Boulevard, new bike lanes for parts of Sepulveda Boulevard, an addition of 1,200 feet to the off-ramp to Cotner, the street that motorists use to access Santa Monica Boulevard (the ramp is now 2,300 feet long).

In November 2016, it was reported that the Metropolitan Transportation Authority has agreed to pay nearly $300 million more to the contractor of the I-405 Freeway widening project, capping a years-long dispute over responsibility for schedule delays, design changes and cost overruns. The settlement will push the cost of the controversial Sepulveda Pass project above $1.6 billion, about 55% higher than the original budget. The $297.8-million agreement follows years of disagreements between Kiewit Corp. and Metro over how the freeway widening was managed. Kiewit has said in legal filings that Metro’s repeated changes to the project’s design and failure to identify and relocate utilities added significantly to delays.
(Source: LA Times, 11/28/2016)

In March 2015, there were reports that the net improvements from the I-405 Sepulveda Pass project were negligible. A traffic study by Seattle-based traffic analytics firm Inrix reported that auto speeds during the afternoon crawl on the NB I-405 post-project are the same or slightly slower as pre-project; in fact, the 35-minute tangle between the 10 and the 101 is actually a minute longer. SB I-405 is so bad, post-improvements, that when Caltrans issues its "worst bottleneck" rankings in August, unofficial data suggest that the 10-mile stretch of I-405 between the Valley and the Westside could be the worst freeway segment in California. The problem is that a number of studies have shown that carpooling is declining even as carpool lanes are added, often to the exclusion of other major transportation projects.
(Source: LA Weekly, 3/4/2015)

In June 2015, the results of another study were reported. This study was commissioned by Metro from Systems Metric Group and was the first to compare traffic flow on I-405 before and after the Sepulveda Pass project that added a northbound carpool lane, rebuilt and widened bridges and on/off ramps and made other key improvements. The study showed that: (•) The number of Freeway Service Patrol reported accidents has dropped, with 15% fewer Freeway Service Patrol reported accidents in February 2015 compared to Feb. 2009; (•) The afternoon weekday rush hour now runs from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. compared to 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. before the project, showing that traffic is at its most congested for two less hours on weekdays; (•) Vehicle capacity on northbound I-405 has increased from 10,000 vehicles per hour to 11,700 vehicles per hour at peak times, a 15% increase in vehicle capacity and 30+% increase in people traveling on this section of I-405; (•) Total travel times are slightly lower between I-10 and US 101 except during the peak of the afternoon commute (about 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.) when travel times are slightly higher, due in part to a bottleneck backing up traffic further north at the I-405 and Route 118 interchange; (•) Travel times on the NB 405 vary less, making travel times are more predictable; and (•) Traffic on major streets near I-405 — including Sepulveda, Sunset, Santa Monica, Pico and Ventura — is 20 to 25% lower since the end of construction. However, the study also showed that commute times during rush hours increased by about a minute, due to a well-documented phenomenon called "triple convergence." People who might have otherwise decided to travel by a different mode, a different route or at a different time make the decision to use the newly expanded freeway based on the assumption that it has improved. It's called "induced demand." So even though Northbound lanes of the freeway can now handle 15% more traffic every hour - that many more cars are now clogging it. Unfortunately, it is hard to factor in that "induced demand" when predicting traffic flows in an expansion project like the I-405 improvement. In its report, Metro said congestion would have increased 36% if the project hadn't been completed.
(Source: The Source, 5/28/2015, KPCC, 6/4/2015)

Sepulveda Pass - Express/HOT Lanes (~ LA 29.677 to LA 39.2)

Int 405 Sepulveda Pass ExpressLanes Project In December 2019, it was reported that the Metropolitan Transportation Authority is in the early stages of planning to allow solo drivers in the 405’s carpool lanes, for a price. Similar programs on portions of Route 110 and Route 10 charge drivers a per-mile toll that changes based on traffic conditions. The toll lanes would run between I-10 in West L.A. and US 101 in the San Fernando Valley; if approved, officials say, the lanes would open to drivers in 2027, just before Los Angeles hosts the 2028 Summer Olympics. In early December, Metro’s board considered a three-year, $27.5-million contract to move the toll lane project closer to construction. Metro staff have recommended hiring the engineering firm WSP USA Inc., formerly Parsons Brinckerhoff, to prepare an environmental analysis, a traffic study and a detailed cost estimate. The toll lanes are being developed in parallel with a rail mega-project through the Sepulveda Pass, which will either be a subway or a monorail, with an estimated price tag of $9.4 billion to $13.8 billion and a tunnel as long as 13 miles through the Santa Monica Mountains. The rail project is funding with about $5.7 billion earmarked from Measure M, the sales tax increase that county voters approved in 2016, leaving an estimated shortfall of at least $3.7 billion. Metro officials have previously said that revenue from the toll lanes could be used to help fund the Sepulveda Pass rail line by creating a revenue source that Metro could borrow against. The widening of I-405 added a single carpool lane in each direction. Metro’s study will examine whether there is enough space in the freeway’s auxiliary areas to create a second lane for tolled trips, or whether Metro would have space to convert only the carpool lane to a single HOT lane. With respect to funding, the toll lanes have $260 million through Measure M, available starting in 2024. The study will determine whether the project will need to find additional money. The proposed lanes would be modeled after the Expresslanes on Route 110 between Exposition Park and the South Bay and on I-10 between downtown and El Monte. Those lanes are free to vehicles with multiple occupants, provided they have a transponder. Carpools of two or more people on Route 110 get a free ride; on I-10, carpools must have three or more occupants during peak periods. Drivers who are alone in the car and enter the ExpressLanes are charged a per-mile price that starts at 25 cents and rises as congestion in the paid lanes grows worse. The per-mile price, which Metro has raised seven times since 2012, is now capped at $2.10, creating a maximum toll of $23.10 on Route 110 and $29.40 on I-10. The Metro report released earlier in 2019 details several scenarios for the ExpressLanes, including the possibility that the existing lanes could be re-striped to make two toll lanes in either direction. Even with just a single toll lane in either direction, the study projects an increase in peak-hour travel speeds of up to 31 miles per hour for those who pay the fee. Traffic speeds in general purpose lanes are also predicted to rise by up to 9 miles per hour in peak congestion, if fees are imposed on vehicles with two occupants.
(Source: LA Times, 12/2/2019; CurbedLA, 12/5/2019)

In August and September 2021, scoping meetings were held with stakeholders regarding HOT/Express Lanes in the Sepulveda Pass. Metro was working with Caltrans to evaluate alternatives to convert the existing high occupancy toll (HOV) lanes to dynamically-priced, high-occupancy toll (HOT) lanes, called ExpressLanes, in both directions of I-405 between I-10 and US-101. The I-405 Sepulveda Pass ExpressLanes Project will include a new overhead tolling system and signage on adjacent portions of the I-405 corridor. The project is in the planning stages and initiating environmental review to study potential ExpressLanes alternatives on the I-405 Sepulveda Pass. The environmental review phase is expected to conclude by fall 2023, with ExpressLanes operation anticipated in advance of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic and Paralympic Games.* As of August 2021, the following alternatives were being considered as part of the environmental review process that will study how each performs in accomplishing the project's goals:
(Source: Email from I–405 Express Lanes Project, "I–405 Sepulveda Pass ExpressLanes: Weekly Update #2", 9/2/2021; Metro Story Map)

Alternative 1: Existing Conditions (no build)
Alternative 2: Convert HOV to one ExpressLane. Convert existing HOV to one ExpressLane in each direction with standard (12 ft) lane widths. Standard lane and shoulder widths. No property acquisition anticipated
Alternative 3: Convert HOV to two ExpressLanes (non-standard lane and shoulder widths). Convert existing HOV to two ExpressLanes in each direction. Non-standard lane and shoulder widths. Potential property acquisition anticipated.
Alternative 4: Convert HOV to two ExpressLanes (standard lane and shoulder widths). Convert existing HOV to two ExpressLanes in each direction. Standard lane (12 ft) and shoulder widths. Property acquisition anticipated.
Alternative 5: Add an Additional HOV Lane (non-standard lane and shoulder widths). Add additional HOV lane in each direction. Non-standard lane and shoulder widths. Potential property acquisition anticipated.

In March 2022, the initial scoping summary report on the project was released. The report documented the various notification and outreach activities undertaken in order to increase project awareness and solicit input during the scoping period (August 3, 2021, through October 1, 2021). This report also provided a summary of the comments received during the scoping period. Looking at Figure 6-1 in the report, it appears the largest support was for Alternative 1 (No Build), and opposition to expanding lanes. Of the other alternatives, Alternative 5 had the next largest support, followed by Alternatives 2 and 4.

In August 2023, it was reported that Metro is working in coordination with the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) to evaluate five alternatives to improve transportation in the Sepulveda Pass, including one no build and four build alternatives, to convert the existing high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes – or carpool lanes – to dynamically priced, high-occupancy toll (HOT) lanes, called ExpressLanes, in both directions of I-405 between I-10 and US-101. Select alternatives also include the addition of a new lane in each direction to serve as a second ExpressLane or carpool lane. The proposed build alternatives are intended to encourage carpooling and transit, improve trip reliability, reduce degradation of the carpool lanes and increase person throughput.
(Source: I-405 Sepulveda Pass ExpressLanes Project Newsletter, 9/2/2023)

In June 2012, the CTC relinquished right of way in the city of Los Angeles along Route 405 on Dickens Street, consisting of a collateral facility. (~ LA 38.942)

In January 2010, the CTC approved relinquishment of right of way adjacent to Route 405 in the city of Los Angeles at Dickens Street, consisting of a collateral facility. (~ LA 38.942)

San Fernando Valley

In Fall 2022, LA Metro included, as a potential project in its "I-405 Comprehensive Multimodal Corridor Plan", a proposed project that will convert the HOV lanes from US 101 to I-5 into ExpressLanes. The project was ranked in tier 3.
(Source: Los Angeles Metro, "I-405 Comprehensive Multimodal Corridor Plan", Fall 2022, Appendix E: CMCP Projects List)

I-405/US 101 Interchange Improvements (~ LA 39.043 to LA 39.757)

In September 2000, the California Transportation Commission considered a proposal (TCRP Project 51) to add an auxiliary lane and widen the ramp through the I-405/US 101 freeway interchange in Sherman Oaks (~ LA 39.043 to LA 39.757). For phases 1 and 2, the request was for $4 million, with a total estimated cost of $34 million. The phase 3 request was $4.2 million. Phase 1 added a northbound auxilliary freeway lane from Mulholland Drive to Greenleaf Avenue, and was completed around January 2003. The third phase was completed in 2004 and widened the eastbound connector to the US 101 to two lanes. The third phase involves permanently closing the ramp that loops motorists from eastbound Ventura Boulevard onto the northbound I-405 near the Sherman Oaks Galleria. The reconstructed approach routes motorists onto southbound Sepulveda Boulevard and onto Greenleaf Avenue, where they will either drive through a tunnel under the freeway and onto the NB I-405, or stay in the right lane and connect to US 101. It was completed in late 2007.

[SB 405/101 IC] There is also work afoot to address another problem at that interchange -- specifically, the connector between southbound I-405 and the northbound US 101. This might involve construction of an elevated two-lane connector. There are five options currently under consideration, some of which could affect nearby homes or take out part of the Sepulveda Basin wildlife refuge. The connection between two freeways is now just one lane and often backs up on I-405. The project would build a two-lane connector across the Sepulveda Dam spillway, and could possibly include changes to southbound I-405 and the southbound US-101 interchange, and the Burbank Boulevard on-and-off-ramps. Built in the 1950s, the freeway connector was designed to handle up to 1,500 vehicles an hour but now has been swamped with 1,790 autos per hour by 2008. By 2015, morning rush hours are expected to draw up to 2,075 vehicles per hour to the freeway connector as the state population increases. One of the three possible alternatives reconstructs the Burbank Boulevard on-ramp to southbound I-405 to pass beneath the new two-lane connector, at an estimated cost of $86.4 million. However, Burbank Boulevard would lose access to both directions of US 101. As a result, the Los Angeles Department of Transportation opposes the plan. Closing that freeway access will send traffic farther down to Van Nuys Boulevard or through the congested intersection of Sepulveda and Burbank boulevards, said Ken Husting, a senior transportation engineer with LADOT. With this alternative, LADOT engineers want to see other roadway improvements to increase mobility, such as building a full interchange at Hayvenhurst Avenue to US 101. The other alternatives stretch into the 225-acre Sepulveda Basin wildlife refuge - home to various species of birds, from burrowing owls to red-tailed hawks and Canada geese - within the Sepulveda Flood Control Basin. A second proposal, estimated at $117 million, maintains access to US 101 from Burbank Boulevard, but it requires a new loop on-ramp that encroaches on 2.64 acres of wildlife refuge sitting north of Burbank Boulevard and west of I-405. The plan also requires reconstruction of the bridge between Burbank Boulevard and I-405. A third alternative, costing about $88.8 million (and supported by Homeowners of Encino) leaves access to US 101 open from Burbank Boulevard but takes 2.92 acres of the wildlife refuge. This plan excludes reconstructing an existing overcrossing between Burbank Boulevard. The Army Corps of Engineer oppose the 2nd and 3rd alternatives, as do environmental groups. The plans will be discussed at the June 2008 CTC meeting.
(Source: LA Daily News], May 8, 2008; Project EIR)

In September 2008, the CTC considered the above project for future consideration of funding. The cover information noted that the project will replace the existing connector by constructing a new connector/bridge over the Sepulveda Dam. The project is not fully funded. The project is programmed in the 2008 State Transportation Improvement Program with regional improvement program shares for $7,010,000 for environmental. The total estimated project cost is $165 million. Construction is estimated to begin in Fiscal Year 2013-14, depending on the availability of funds.

In April 2012, it was reported that widening and retrofitting of the Sepulveda Overpass was going to begin in May 2012. For about a year, left turns from Fiume Walk and the Southbound Valley Vista off-ramp onto northbound Sepulveda will be restricted, and left turns from northbound Sepulveda onto Fiume Walk will also be restricted. Additionally, the left turn pocket onto the southbound Valley Vista on-ramp will be shortened and Sepulveda will go to two lanes in each direction near the overpass. Meanwhile, two crosswalks will be eliminated—the crosswalk across Sepulveda at Fiume Walk and the crosswalk across Fiume which, along with sidewalk on the west side of Sepulveda, will close three months after the start of construction.
(Source: Zev Yaroslavsky's Blog, 4/27/2012)

In Fall 2022, LA Metro included, as a potential project in its "I-405 Comprehensive Multimodal Corridor Plan", a vaguely defined project that will improve the I-405/US 101 interchange. The project was ranked in tier 3.
(Source: Los Angeles Metro, "I-405 Comprehensive Multimodal Corridor Plan", Fall 2022, Appendix E: CMCP Projects List)

Southbound Ventura Blvd Interchange (07-LA-405 PM 39.1)

The following project was included in the final adopted 2018 SHOPP in March 2018: PPNO 2681. 07-Los Angeles-405 39.1. Route 405 In the community of Sherman Oaks, at southbound onramp from Ventura Boulevard. Widen the onramp to two lanes plus a High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lane. Begin Con: 7/15/2022. Total Project Cost: $7,336K.

In March 2020, the CTC approved a financial allocation for 07-LA-405 PM 39.1. PPNO 2681. ProjID 0717000022. EA 20490. I-405 in the city of Sherman Oaks, at southbound onramp from Ventura Boulevard. Widen the onramp to two lanes plus a High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lane. 21-22 PS&E $1,918,000 $1,918,000 R/W Sup $141,000 $141,000.
(Source: March 2020 CTC Agenda, Agenda Item 2.5b.(2a) #23)

The 2020 SHOPP, approved in May 2020, included the following Mobility item of interest (carried over from the 2018 SHOPP): 07-LA-405 PM 39.1 PPNO 2681 Proj ID 0717000022 EA 20490. I-405 in the city of Los Angeles, in the neighborhood of Sherman Oaks, at the southbound onramp from Ventura Boulevard. Widen the onramp to two lanes plus a High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lane. Programmed in FY21-22, with construction scheduled to start in July 2022. Total project cost is $7,336K, with $3,149K being capital (const and right of way) and $4,187K being support (engineering, environmental, etc.).
(Source: 2020 Approved SHOPP a/o May 2020)

In August 2022, the CTC approved the following construction phase allocation: $4,451,000. 07-LA-405 39.1. PPNO 07-2681; ProjID 0717000022; EA 20490. I-405 In the city of Los Angeles, in the neighborhood of Sherman Oaks, at the southbound onramp from Ventura Boulevard. Outcome/Output: Widen the onramp from two lanes to three metered lanes to help reduce congestion. Programmed allocation: CON ENG $1,343,000; CONST $3,120,000. CEQA - CE, 2/20/2020; Re-validation 4/29/2022. NEPA - CE, 2/20/2020; Re-validation 4/29/2022. Two month time extension for CONST and CON ENG approved under Waiver 22-73; June 2022.
(Source: August 2022 CTC Agenda, Agenda Item 2.5b.(1) #53)

In Fall 2022, LA Metro included, as a potential project in its "I-405 Comprehensive Multimodal Corridor Plan", a proposed project that will build an interchange at I-405 and Oxnard Street, including a Metro Orange Line to HOV connection. The project was ranked in tier 3.
(Source: Los Angeles Metro, "I-405 Comprehensive Multimodal Corridor Plan", Fall 2022, Appendix E: CMCP Projects List)

In August 2022, it was reported that Metro and Caltrans have announed the completion of 5.4 miles of new sound walls along Route 170 and I-405 in the North Hollywood area of Los Angeles. The new $103-million sound wall project provides freeway noise relief to the residents of North Hollywood, Valley Glen and Valley Village. Sound walls were completed specifically along Route 170 from US 101 (~ 07-LA-170 R14.649) to Sherman Way (~ 07-LA-170 R18.277), and along I-405 from Saticoy Avenue (~ 07-LA-405 42.883) to Roscoe Boulevard (~ 07-LA-405 43.781). The project also included the widening of eight bridges to support the sound walls without widening the lanes. Construction of this sound wall project began in 2017 and as of August 2022 was substantially complete. The project team will later add landscaping to help stabilize the slopes and beautify the right-of-way. Plantings are expected to be completed by fall 2023. New sound walls were funded by Metro’s 2008 voter-approved Measure R transportation sales tax measure as well as Proposition C that was passed by county voters in 1990. What is interesting about this project is that it was primarily a Metro project, not Caltrans. With the passage of Senate Bill (SB)-45, the California Street and Highway Code was amended to transfer the programming and funding responsibilities of the Post 1989 Soundwall Retrofit Program to Regional Transportation Planning Agencies. In LA County, Metro assumed this responsibility. However, the eligibility determination as well as design and construction responsibilities for the program remained with the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans). Metro inherited a backlog of soundwall projects totaling nearly $1 billion without any corresponding funding from the state.
(Source: Metro "The Source" 8/4/2022, Metro "Highway Soundwalls" 9/17/2022)

This route is named the "San Diego Freeway"; the first portion opened in 1957; the last in 1969. It was named by the State Highway Commission on November 18, 1954. San Diego refers to the eventual southern terminus of the route (after all merges). The name refers to Saint Didacus of Alcalá, a Franciscan saint of the 15th century. The bay was named by Vizcaíno in 1602, the mission in 1769, the county in 1850 and the new city in 1856. The name was likely given to encourage people to take the I-405 bypass of downtown to go to San Diego (connecting with I-5 to the S).
(Image source: Water and Power; OC Register; Catholic Online)

James Mitchell (Mitch) Waller Memorial Highway The portion of I-405 from just S of San Diego Creek (South Fork), just S of Route 133 and San Diego Creek, North Fork, NW of Harvard Ave) ( ~ ORA 1.525 to ORA 6.459) in the County of Orange is named the "James Mitchell “Mitch” Waller Memorial Highway". It was named in memory of James Mitchell “Mitch” Waller, who was born in September 1959, in Dallas, Texas. In 1965, Waller and his family moved to Huntington Beach, California, where he began his education. Waller joined the Boy Scouts of America as a Cub Scout in his early school years and continued to participate in the organization as a Boy Scout through high school, earning the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout. Waller graduated from Edison High School in 1977. He continued his education at the University of California, San Diego and graduated in 1983 with a bachelor of arts degree in Biochemistry and Cellular Biology and a minor in Economics. Waller attended the Criminal Justice Training Center at Golden West College, after which he began his career in law enforcement with the City of Westminster Police Department in 1984. While continuing his duties with the City of Westminster Police Department, Waller attended Chapman University School of Law in 1995. He completed his juris doctor degree and passed the California Bar in 1999. In 2003, he was selected to attend the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. As a community leader, Waller rose through the ranks to become Chief of Police for the Westminster Police Department. He served the law enforcement and safety communities for 27 years. Waller remained committed to the Westminster community and worked to develop positive staff relations, communications, and infrastructure. Under his direction, the new Westminster Police Department building was completed in 2011, on time and under budget—an accomplishment of which he was very proud. Waller accepted an appointment to the office of the Westminster City Manager in 2011, and he retired in 2012. In his neighborhood in the community of Mission Viejo, Waller was known for generosity with both his time and talents. He was very active in his daughter softball teams, supporting them with everything from coaching assistance to first aid. For his son, Mitch assisted with his training for the high school cross-country and track teams, always there to offer his encouragement and support. The exemplary life of Mitch Waller ended tragically in an accident on the morning of Friday, June 28, 2013, at 53 years of age, while he was cycling with his good friend in the bike lane on Route 133, heading toward Laguna Beach—a favorite destination. Named by Assembly Concurrent Resolution (ACR) 65, Res. Chapter 169, Statutes of 2015, on September 10, 2015.
(Image source: Mission Viejo Reporter: OC Register)

The portion of I-405 northbound in the County of Orange between Magnolia Street and Brookhurst Street (~ ORA 15.210 to ORA 13.780), is designated the "Lt. Colonel Nguyen Thi Hanh Nhon Disabled Veterans Memorial Highway". It was named in memory of Nguyen Thi Hanh Nhon, who was born in 1927 in Hue, Việt Nam, a daughter of a field marshal of the Nguyen Dynasty. Ms. Nguyen was married to Ly Nhut Huong, a businessman, and was the mother of nine children. In 1950, when the French came to Việt Nam and formed the Corps of Female Assistants, consisting of office secretaries, nurses, and social workers, Ms. Nguyen enlisted and served in the corps. When the American forces arrived in Việt Nam, this corps became the Corps of Female Soldiers and served under the regime of the South Vietnamese Armed Forces until 1975. At the time, Ms. Nguyen served as a Lieutenant (Lt.) Colonel of the Air Force of the Republic of Vietnam at the Air Force Headquarters at Tan Son Nhut Airbase. After the fall of Saigon in 1975, Lt. Colonel Nguyen was imprisoned in a reeducation camp for nearly five years and suffered hard labor in the forest with access to little food and water, and lived in horrific conditions. After her release, she had little options left but to find work in any capacity, from selling ice cream to selling home construction materials to support her family. In 1990, one of her sons sponsored her to come to the United States via the Humanitarian Operation under the Orderly Departure Program and she became a resident of the City of Garden Grove. In 1991, Lt. Colonel Nguyen joined the Mutual Society of Political Prisoners and served as its Vice President to help those in Việt Nam who qualified under the Humanitarian Operation to come to the United States. Once those qualifying under the Humanitarian Operation arrived in the United States, Lt. Colonel Nguyen helped them find work and housing, enrolled children in schools, and more importantly, helped them to adjust to life in America. These community efforts were instrumental in providing new immigrants with the tools to acclimate and become self-sufficient. In 1994, when the Humanitarian Operation ended, Lt. Colonel Nguyen and the group organized a Humanitarian Operation Mutual Society for Việt Nam Wounded Veterans, of which she became president in 2006. Through this organization, Lt. Colonel Nguyen assisted disabled Veterans of the Republic of Vietnam who were still in Việt Nam facing financial difficulties and raised awareness to help the wounded soldiers in Việt Nam. In 2006, as the needs to serve many disabled veterans in Việt Nam increased, Lt. Colonel Nguyen organized the “Cam On Anh” Annual Concert in the City of Garden Grove, California, to raise funds to send money back to Việt Nam for disabled veterans. Over the past 10 years, Lt. Colonel Nguyen has helped serve over 22,000 disabled veterans of the Army of the Republic of Vietnam. In addition to her work in support of veterans, Lt. Colonel Nguyen helped educate students about the impacts of the Vietnam War and contributed her life story to the University of California, Irvine Vietnamese American Heritage Foundation Oral Histories Project. Lt. Colonel Nguyen was an active member of several community-based organizations dedicated to improving the lives of Vietnamese Americans in the County of Orange and throughout the State of California. On April 18, 2017, Lt. Colonel Nguyen passed away at the age of 90, leaving a strong legacy of community service for the residents of California’s 34th Senate District. Named by Senate Concurrent Resolution 60, Resolution Chapter 178, 9/22/2017.
(Image source: Người Việt Online; Thanh Thúy)

Hotshot Firefigher Kevin J. Woyjeck Memorial Highway The portion of I-405 between just SE of the Route 22 interchange and Bolsa Chica Road and the San Gabriel River overcrossing, just NW of I-605 interchange (~ ORA 20.4 to ORA 24.178) in the County of Orange is named the "Kevin Woyjeck Memorial Highway" (signed as "Hotshot Firefigher Kevin J. Woyjeck Memorial Highway"). As the son of a captain in the Los Angeles County Fire Department, the grandson of a smokejumper, and the eighth firefighter in the Woyjeck family, Kevin Woyjeck knew from an early age that he wanted to be a firefighter. Kevin grew up in Seal Beach, California, and attended McGaugh Elementary School in Seal Beach and McAuliffe Middle School and Los Alamitos High School, both in Los Alamitos, California. He spent every summer for nine years as a Seal Beach Junior Lifeguard. When he was 15 years old, Kevin joined the Los Angeles County Fire Department Explorer Program. Kevin became an emergency medical technician while in high school and worked on an ambulance crew shortly after graduating. Kevin had extensive training as a firefighter, having taken firefighting classes at Santa Ana College, El Camino College Structure Fire Academy, and the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection Academy in San Luis Obispo. Kevin also spent a season in South Dakota, where he joined the Johnson Valley Volunteer Fire Department and performed indirect wildland firefighting for the South Dakota Wildland Fire Division as part of a Type 2-IA Handcrew. In April 2013, Kevin was honored to join the Granite Mountain Hotshots, an elite crew of 20 young men in top condition, based in Prescott, Arizona, who had direct wildland firefighting responsibilities with the ability to provide service anywhere in the nation. After successfully fighting fires and saving lives and property in New Mexico and Arizona, Kevin and the other members of the crew responded to an out-of-control fire in Yarnell, Arizona, on June 30, 2013. Nineteen of the twenty young men in the Granite Mountain Hotshots tragically lost their lives in the fire, including Kevin. Named by Assembly Concurrent Resolution (ACR) 100, Res. Chapter 116, Statutes of 2016 on August 16, 2016.
(Image source: LA County Fire; Press Telegram)

The portion of I-405 from Cherry Avenue south to Atlantic Avenue in the County of Los Angeles (~ LA 4.867 to LA 6.071), is named the "Signal Hill Police Officer Anthony “Tony” Giniewicz Memorial Highway". It was named in memory of Officer Anthony “Tony” Giniewicz, who faithfully served the Signal Hill Police Department and the residents of the City of Signal Hill as a police officer assigned to patrol operations. Officer Giniewicz was shot in the line of duty by three gang members while responding to a robbery in progress at a restaurant in the City of Long Beach on February 19, 1985. Officer Giniewicz was paralyzed from the chest down as a result of his wounds and remained in poor health until passing away as a result of complications on December 7, 2011. Named by Senate Concurrent Resolution 84, Resolution Chapter 89, on July 9, 2014.
(Image source: Signal Hill Police Department; Find a Grave)

The portion of I-405 from South Western Avenue to Redondo Beach Boulevard in the County of Los Angeles (~ LA 14.476 to LA 16.889) is named the "Louis Zamperini Memorial Highway". Louis Silvie Zamperini was born in January 1917, in Olean, New York, to Italian immigrants Anthony Zamperini and Louise Dossi. Zamperini’s family moved to Torrance, California, in 1919. Louis Zamperini learned to box before he became a runner. His father taught him how to box so he could defend himself against bullies who taunted him because he could not speak English. Pete Zamperini, his older brother, encouraged him to try out for the track team at Torrance High School. Louis Zamperini set the national high school record in the mile at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum in 1934, earning him the nickname of the “Torrance Tornado.” His record time of 4 minutes, 21.2 seconds stood for 20 years. His schoolboy exploits on the track team earned him a scholarship to the University of Southern California. Two years later, in the 5,000-meter Olympic trials at Randalls Island in New York, Louis Zamperini finished in a dead heat with Don Lash, the world-record holder, which qualified him for the 1936 Olympics in Berlin as a teenager, alongside such Olympians as Jesse Owens, Ralph Metcalfe, and Mack Robinson, the older brother of Jackie Robinson. Two years later, in 1938, Louis Zamperini set a national collegiate mile record of 4:08.3, which stood for 15 years. He subsequently graduated from the University of Southern California, and not long after that, when World War II broke out, he enlisted in September 1941 in the United States Army Air Corps and became a bombardier on a Consolidated B-24 bomber in the Pacific theater of operations. During a search and rescue mission to save a downed pilot, Louis Zamperini’s airplane crashed due to mechanical failure, and he and two other airmen were the only survivors of the 11-man crew on board the airplane. One of the men died after 33 days, and Louis Zamperini and the other airman were stranded on a raft for a total of 47 days before washing ashore on a Pacific island and being taken as prisoners of war (POWs) by the Japanese. Louis Zamperini was tortured for the next two years and was only released and returned to the United States after the end of the war in the Pacific in 1945. After the war, he founded a camp for troubled youths called the Victory Boys Camp. Louis Zamperini married in 1946 and remained married until his wife's death in 2001. His marriage became strained because of his nightmares reliving his World War II experiences, and he began drinking heavily, trying to forget his experiences as a POW. In 1949, at the encouragement of his wife, Louis Zamperini reluctantly agreed to attend a Billy Graham crusade. Graham’s preaching reminded him of his prayers during his time on the life raft and his imprisonment, and Zamperini recommitted his life to Christ. Following this, he forgave his Japanese tormentors, and his nightmares ceased. Louis Zamperini was a defiant, resourceful, and determined man. He became an Olympic athlete and survived a plane crash, being lost at sea, and the worst of a Japanese prisoner-of-war camp during World War II. In 1998, he carried the Olympic torch at the Winter Olympics held in Nagano, Japan. He also spent the last 65 years of his life sharing his faith and his philosophy of life with as many audiences as would invite him to speak. In his talks, he included the concepts of forgiveness, hardiness, preparation, and a new life in Christ. Louis Zamperini was also quick-witted, fun-loving, humble, and extremely caring of other people. On July 2, 2014, Louis Silvie Zamperini passed away at his home in Los Angeles, California, at 97 years of age. His dramatic life story (Olympian and World War II POW) has been told in various books, including the 2010 biography “Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption,” by Laura Hillenbrand and the December 2014 film “Unbroken,” directed by Angelina Jolie. Named by Assembly Concurrent Resolution (ACR) 157, Res. Chapter 122, Statutes of 2016 on August 16, 2016.
(Image source: Daily Breeze; South Bay by Jackie; Pasadena Star News)

The portion of I-405 between Hawthorne Boulevard in the City of Lawndale and Rosecrans Avenue in the City of Manhattan Beach (~ LA 17.622 to LA 19.226) is named the Martin L. Ganz Memorial Highway (signed as "Manhattan Beach Police Officer Martin L. Ganz Memorial Highway"). It was named in memory of Martin L. Ganz, a police officer with the Manhattan Beach Police Department. Officer Ganz was a well-liked and respected Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) officer who took great care to teach the children of Manhattan Beach to stay away from drugs and alcohol. He was a member of the South Bay Regional Driving Under the Influence Task Force and prided himself on taking drunk drivers off the streets. On December 27, 1993, Officer Ganz was shot and killed in the line of duty while protecting the people and property of the City of Manhattan Beach. Named by Assembly Concurrent Resolution 145, August 19, 2004. Chapter 148
(Image source: Martin Ganz Memorial Webpage)

The portion of I-405 between Rosecrans Avenue and El Segundo Boulevard in the County of Los Angeles (~ LA 19.226 to LA 20.22) is named the "Hawthorne Police Officer Andrew Garton Memorial Highway". It was named in memory of Hawthorne Police Officer Andrew Garton, a seven-year veteran of the Hawthorne Police Department, who died on May 26, 2011 from injuries sustained in a motorcycle crash during the funeral procession of another fallen officer. Officer Garton, 44, was the first Hawthorne officer to die in the line of duty in the department’s 89-year history. Garton was born on January 23, 1967, in San Fernando, California, and graduated from Antelope Valley High. Prior to becoming a police officer, Andrew was a skilled ceramic tile setter. He met his wife, Tracy, in 1989 while installing tile at the house that would eventually become their home. Andrew and his wife married at SeaCoast Grace Church in April 1993, and continued to reside in Orange County. Inspired by Sgt. Shawn Shimono, a close friend for over 20 years, Andrew entered the police academy, graduating on February 20, 2004, and became a Hawthorne police officer. Andrew served as Vice President of the Hawthorne Police Officer’s Association and as Treasurer of the Hawthorne Police Officer’s Association Political Action Committee. Andrew was a long-time member of the Hawthorne SWAT Team, and an accomplished motor vehicle and traffic investigator. He was also active in both scouting and coaching youth baseball. For those who knew him, he was both a mentor and a friend. Named by Assembly Concurrent Resolution 100, Resolution Chapter 109, on September 4, 2012.
(Image source: Hawthorne Police - In Memory; Officer Down Memorial Page)

The southbound portion of I-405 between the Imperial Highway exit (~ LA R21.226) and the West Century Boulevard exit (~ LA 22.224) in the County of Los Angeles is named the “Officer Tommy Scott Memorial Highway”. It was named in memory of Tommy Scott, who was born and raised in Los Angeles, California. Before joining the Los Angeles International Airport police, Tommy Scott was an Aquatic Supervisor for the Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks for 15 years and a lifeguard at Celes King III Pool. During his time with the Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks, Tommy Scott saved two children from drowning. Tommy Scott attended the Rio Hondo Police Academy in Whittier; and came to the Los Angeles International Airport Police Department in 2001 after turning down a job with the Los Angeles Police Department, saying he preferred the airport police department because he “wouldn’t get transferred”. Officer Scott spent his days patrolling the airfield, the airport’s horseshoe-shaped road, terminals, and perimeter, often with trainees or visitors in tow. Tommy Scott dedicated himself completely to anything he did, working overtime as an airport police officer, but returning whenever he could to be a lifeguard at city pools. Officer Scott had a high profile at several major events at the airport, including being first on the scene when a flashlight exploded in the Bradley terminal and Officer Scott directed other officers to evacuate the crowded building and solicited the cooperation of hundreds of passengers. On April 29, 2005, a pedestrian commandeered Officer Scott’s patrol car on Lincoln Boulevard, dragging him along as he struggled for control of the steering wheel and eventually hitting a fire hydrant, killing Officer Scott. Officer Scott was the first Los Angeles Airport Police Officer to die in that department’s 59-year history. Named by Senate Resolution SCR 39, Res. Chapter 54, 05/13/22.
(Image source: Los Angeles Airport Police Officer Association)

Before 1954, this route was named the "Sepulveda Freeway". Sepulveda refers to the boulevard that the route parallels, which was named for the Sepulveda family of early Los Angeles.

The portion of Route 405 from Howard Hughes Parkway to Mulholland Drive in the County of Los Angeles (~ LA 24.704 to LA 37.011) is named the "Nathan Shapell Memorial Highway". This segment was named in honor of Nathan Shapell, a builder of lives who was dedicated to helping others less fortunate. A survivor of the Holocaust, he was determined to not only rebuild his own life, but to help others rebuild theirs. For more than five years after World War II, he built a community for thousands of displaced people and survivors of the camps before emigrating to the United States in the early 1950s. Shapell built a highly successful real estate development company that is recognized as an industry leader and highly respected as a role model for corporate philanthropy. He dedicated a major portion of his life to public service. He was a past President and Executive Board Member of the American Academy of Achievement and served as a Member of President Reagan's Private Sector Survey on Cost Control. He founded and cochaired Building a Better Los Angeles, a one-time project that raised over $1 million for the homeless. In 1987, he accepted the position of President of D.A.R.E. America, a renowned drug abuse resistance education program. In 1992, Governor Pete Wilson appointed him to serve as a member of the California Competitiveness Council and develop recommendations to revitalize California's economy. Nathan Shapell's greatest public contributions were made through his 29 years of service on California's "Little Hoover Commission." As chairman for an unprecedented 18 years of this one-of-a-kind commission, he helped save taxpayers billions of dollars and improve the lives of hundreds of thousands of Californians in areas that include nursing home operations, children's services, property management, transportation, the Medi-Cal program, and public education. Nathan Shapell's commitment to service on behalf of the public was recognized in 1986 when Santa Clara University bestowed upon him an honorary Doctorate of Public Service degree. In 1987, Tel Aviv University awarded Mr. Shapell a Doctor Philosophiae Honoris Causa. He chronicled the early years of his life in his book, "Witness to the Truth". Mr. Shapell lived in Beverly Hills until his death on March 11, 2007. (What is interesting, perhaps because it was a rush job, is that the resolution doesn't mention that Mr. Shapell built loads and loads of homes in areas that were developed due to the freeways, such as the S.F. Bay area and Porter Ranch. Some might say that it would have been more appropriate to designate Route 118 between Balboa Blvd and Topanga Canyon Blvd in his honor. However, also not mentioned in Shapell's Jewish philanthrophy, which is perhaps the basis for having the route on the heavily Jewish westside, ending at Mulholland, where the Skirball Center, American Jewish University, and Stephen S. Wise Temple are located) Named by Assembly Concurrent Resolution (ACR) 73, Resolution Chapter 148, on 10/2/2007.
(Image source: Google Street View; California Homebuilding Foundation)

The portion of Route 405 from Venice Boulevard to National Boulevard in the City of Los Angeles (~ LA 27.991 to LA 29.183) is officially designated the "CHP Officer Philip Dennis Ortiz Memorial Highway" It was named in memory of CHP Officer Philip Dennis Ortiz. Ortiz was born June 27, 1961, in Santa Monica, California. He graduated from Santa Monica High School in 1979 and attended Santa Monica City College. Prior to joining the California Highway Patrol (CHP), Philip worked for a local supermarket; however, he always had a dream of becoming a CHP Officer. On December 23,1982, CHP Officer Philip Dennis Ortiz, badge number 10428, graduated from the CHP Academy and was assigned to the central Los Angeles area office. After more than seven years of service in the central Los Angeles area, Officer Ortiz was transferred to the west Los Angeles area, where he spent the remainder of his career. Officer Ortiz performed several duties over the course of his career, some of which included a motorcycle officer, a motorcycle officer in charge of training the officers who successfully passed motor school, a weapons/range officer, a physical methods of arrest (PMA) instructor, and protective services detail (PSD). On June 22, 2010, CHP Officer Philip Dennis Ortiz pulled a vehicle over for a high occupancy vehicle (HOV) lane violation. While approaching the vehicle, another car was driving along the shoulder and struck Officer Ortiz and his motorcycle. Officer Ortiz was transported to the Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center where he remained until his passing almost two weeks later. Officer Ortiz is admired for his professionalism, dedication, honesty, loyalty, respect, courage, and "espirit de corps." He consistently represented the best of the CHP and was an outstanding role model. Named by Assembly Concurrent Resolution 41, Resolution Chapter 52, on July 15, 2011.
(Image source: Culver City Patch; Officer Down Memorial Page)

California Highways:
www.cahighways.org

Interstate 405

Routing

Post 1964 Signage History

Pre 1964 Signage History

Status

Commuter Lanes

Naming

Named Structures

Interstate Submissions

Classified Landcaped Freeway

Freeway

Exit Information

Other WWW Links

Statistics

County	Route	Starting PM	Ending PM
Orange	405	0.00	1.09
Orange	405	3.69	6.19
Orange	405	7.58	7.79
Orange	405	8.40	12.41
Orange	405	12.50	24.18
Los Angeles	405	0.00	1.32
Los Angeles	405	1.50	7.41
Los Angeles	405	7.52	8.76
Los Angeles	405	8.91	9.78
Los Angeles	405	9.87	24.67
Los Angeles	405	24.73	28.60
Los Angeles	405	28.65	34.41
Los Angeles	405	37.01	48.03

California Highways: www.cahighways.org

Interstate 405

Routing

Post 1964 Signage History

Pre 1964 Signage History

Status

Commuter Lanes

Naming

Named Structures

Interstate Submissions

Classified Landcaped Freeway

Freeway

Exit Information

Other WWW Links

Statistics

California Highways:
www.cahighways.org