The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) advises motorists planning to travel on the Golden State Freeway (Interstate 5) in north Los Angeles County to plan ahead and leave early to avoid Labor Day holiday-related heavy traffic — due to an ongoing lane closure on northbound I-5 at Templin Highway, (approximately five miles north of Castaic). The lane closure is due to ongoing storm-related slope stabilization and roadway repairs.

Heavy traffic is expected from Friday, August 29 through Tuesday, September 2. Three northbound lanes and all (4) southbound lanes remain open to motorists. Motorists are also reminded that traffic fines are doubled in freeway work zones.

For road conditions in California (excluding unforeseen traffic incidents) please call the Caltrans Highway Information Number at 1-800-427-ROAD (7623). By speaking the number of the route desired – or using a touch-tone telephone and entering the highway/route number of interest, callers can get up-do-date road conditions on any highway in California.  Motorists are also encouraged to tune into local radio stations for up to-the-minute freeway reports before starting out on trips.

Caltrans thanks the motoring public for their patience during these repairs.  For more information, please call the Caltrans Public Affairs office at (213) 897-3630 or 897-3656 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

PLEASE REMEMBER TO BUCKLE UP, WATCH SPEEDS AND SLOW FOR THE CONE ZONE.