The California Department of Transportation is set to open an additional lane of the 5 Freeway near Castaic this week in an effort to ease holiday traffic.

Caltrans is working to help drivers avoid the heavy traffic congestion that occurred in three northbound lanes over the Thanksgiving holiday, when thousands of motorists spent more than one hour traveling a few miles, according to officials.

The No. 3 northbound lane is set to open on Wednesday, Dec. 19 for the remainder of the construction project, according to Caltrans.

“Recognizing that Castaic and Santa Clarita Valley traffic issues are a serious concern, my office and Caltrans are collaborating to find meaningful solutions and lessen the travel issues experienced in the community and by motorists in general,” said Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger, who represents Santa Clarita as part of the Fifth District.

Barger is currently developing an emergency traffic plan in Castaic, in response to heavy holiday traffic over the Thanksgiving weekend.

See Related: 5 Freeway Traffic ‘Emergency Plan’ Passed By Los Angeles County Supervisors

Like most holidays, motorists should expect delays because there will be above-normal traffic on the I-5 corridor.

The California Highway Patrol is also set to be enforcing the speed limit of 55 miles per hour in the construction zone, where traffic fines are doubled.

The $171 million I-5 Roadway Rehabilitation Project extends nearly 16 miles in and near the City of Santa Clarita, from south of State Route 14 to north of Lake Hughes Road.

The construction is said to be on schedule and is expected to be completed next summer, according to Caltrans.

“While reopening the lane will improve traffic flow through Castaic and Santa Clarita, Caltrans recommends that motorists consider adjusting travel times or taking alternate routes — such as U.S. 101 and State Route 14,” said Caltrans District 7 Director John Bulinski.

Before traveling, motorists are encouraged to check road conditions on the Caltrans Quickmaps website here.

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