Bridge Maintenance In California That Might Delay Your Drive

California’s aging bridge infrastructure requires constant maintenance to keep travelers safe. Across the state, major repair projects are underway that could impact your travel plans and commute times.

From seismic retrofits to complete replacements, these essential projects ensure bridge safety but often create temporary inconveniences for drivers navigating the Golden State’s highways and byways.

1. Murray Street Bridge in Santa Cruz: Seismic Retrofit Until 2028

Santa Cruz commuters are dealing with years of work on the Murray Street Bridge, a $50 million seismic retrofit that began in January 2025. The project is designed to strengthen the bridge against earthquakes, widen the deck, add bike lanes, and replace old barrier rails.

Traffic has already changed: the westbound lane is closed until construction wraps up, and drivers should prepare for two full bridge closures; one lasting about four and a half months in 2025 and another about three months in 2026. Pedestrian and harbor access remain open but rerouted. When the project finishes in January 2028, the bridge will finally meet modern safety standards.

2. Golden Gate Bridge: Weekly and Overnight Lane Closures

Even California’s most famous span is under repair. The Golden Gate Bridge has weekly Wednesday lane closures from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. for pothole and pavement work. Overnight maintenance also continues Sunday through Thursday nights, usually from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m., as crews work on the suicide deterrent system and other repairs.

These changes don’t close the bridge, but they do squeeze traffic into fewer lanes. Drivers from Marin into San Francisco should expect slowdowns at night and mid-day on Wednesdays. Cyclists and pedestrians should also note that the east sidewalk often closes early on nights with northbound lane work.

3. Traffic Way Bridge in Arroyo Grande: Full Replacement Through 2025

In Arroyo Grande, the 1932 Traffic Way Bridge is coming down. Safety inspections revealed failing joints, cracking concrete, and erosion around the piers, forcing Caltrans and the city to push ahead with a full replacement.

Construction began in May 2025 and will keep the bridge completely closed until the end of the year. Detour routes wind through downtown neighborhoods, adding noticeable time to local trips. The $11–14 million project is scheduled to finish by December 2025, giving the Central Coast a safer and more reliable crossing.

4. How Drivers Can Plan Around California Bridge Closures

The best way to avoid surprises is to check official updates before heading out. Caltrans QuickMap, 511.org, and city project pages post real-time closure information and detour maps. Local alerts by text or email are also available in many counties.

If you can, plan trips for mid-day or early morning when lane closures are less likely. For longer delays, public transit options like BART or Caltrain can save hours compared to sitting in traffic.

5. Where to Find Official Caltrans and Local Updates

California drivers don’t have to guess about construction schedules—official agencies post frequent updates. The Caltrans QuickMap website and mobile app show statewide lane closures, traffic speeds, and detours in real time.

For Bay Area bridges, 511.org posts lane closure schedules, toll updates, and detour information. In Southern California, county transportation agencies like LA Metro and the Orange County Transportation Authority maintain local alerts.

Social media is another fast way to get closure notices. Follow @CaltransHQ and your local district account (for example, @CaltransDist4 covers the Bay Area) for real-time traffic advisories. Local news outlets often share updates as well, especially when closures change on short notice.