Drivers who use Interstate 8 in the El Cajon area may need to be patient this weekend.
Caltrans officials announced Tuesday that parts of the westbound freeway bridge over El Cajon Boulevard — from West Main Street to about Severin Drive — will be closed for re-paving from 9 p.m. Friday to 5 a.m. Tuesday.
The far right lane will be closed during the day, but, come nightfall, crews may close up to three lanes, Caltrans officials said. The far left lane will always be open. Traffic engineers will monitor freeway traffic while the work is being completed, and if the area gets too clogged, some westbound motorists may be detoured.
The construction is part of the $27.7-million I-8 Pavement and Bridge Rehabilitation Improvement Project which got going in November 2022 and is scheduled for completion this summer. The project aims to extend the life of several Interstate 8 bridges in East County by replacing aging pavement and installing a variety of road-enhancing features such as sign replacements and landscaping that will protect against erosion.
The freeway stretch between West Main and Severin is one of the region’s older brides, the transportation agency said.
If heavy rain is in the forecast, the work could be pushed to Jan. 12. Travelers were asked to watch for highway workers and moving equipment.
