I-15 Smart Freeway Pilot Project

Status: Under Construction

Location: Western Riverside County

Type of Project: Highways

Location: Northbound Interstate 15 from the San Diego/Riverside County Line in Temecula to the 15/215 Interchange in Murrieta

Engineering/Environmental Studies: Completed late 2023

Construction: Complete

Investment: $33 million

Fact SheetSmart Room

OVERVIEW

The Riverside County Transportation Commission (RCTC), in partnership with Caltrans, Western Riverside Council of Governments, and the City of Temecula, has implemented innovative technology along the northbound Interstate 15 (I-15) in Temecula and Murrieta that is anticipated to improve traffic operations and enhance travel time reliability for drivers.

Severe congestion occurs along northbound I-15 from the San Diego/Riverside County Line in Temecula to the I-15/I-215 Interchange in Murrieta. This is caused by the high volume of vehicles entering the freeway at the Temecula Parkway, Rancho California Road, and Winchester Road on-ramps, particularly during peak afternoon and evening hours.

The project includes an eight-mile, non-tolled segment equipped with advanced sensors and intelligent transportation system features that continuously monitor real-time traffic conditions. Recently, the project reached a key milestone with the launch of a 90-day baseline data collection period, during which sensors are gathering information on traffic volumes, speeds, and travel times to establish current conditions.

Once the system turns on, adaptive ramp meters will function as a coordinated system, adjusting in real time to allow more or fewer vehicles to enter the freeway. This approach is designed to improve mainline traffic flow, reduce stop-and-go conditions, and enhance travel time reliability. Digital message signs will also display recommended speeds and current conditions along northbound I-15 to help maintain steady traffic flow and improve safety.

While drivers may initially experience short delays at on ramps, the system is expected to result in overall time savings, fewer stops, and smoother travel along the corridor. The system collects traffic flow data only and does not capture photographs, issue tickets, or collect personal information. The pilot project will begin in June and will be evaluated over a two-year period to determine its effectiveness and potential for broader implementation.

Project Schedule

Construction, including installing the ”smart” technology, coordinating the on-ramp signal timing, and placing roadside informational signs, began January 2025 and was completed later that year. In late May 2026, the pilot period will begin for two years.O

During the pilot period, RCTC and Caltrans will evaluate the project to assess its effect on traffic congestion and determine possible expansion of the program statewide. This schedule is subject to change.

RCTC Smart Freeways Project Schedule v13 (1)

Navigating the On-Ramps

The ramp meter is not meant to hold drivers on the ramp. It is designed to manage how many vehicles enter I-15 at one time. Sensors monitor freeway traffic and ramp queues in real time, and the system adjusts the signal timing as conditions change.

A flashing yellow beacon alerts drivers when the ramp meter is active or preparing to turn on. Drivers should slow down and be ready to stop.

Signs at the stop line will remind drivers: ONE CAR PER GREEN, EACH LANE

When ramp meters are active, all signals cycle between red and green simultaneously.

Temecula Parkway On-Ramp

The Temecula Parkway northbound on-ramp has a modified three-lane ramp meter. The meter is positioned closer to the freeway to create more storage, and the former HOV lane now serves all drivers.

Rancho California Road On-Ramp

The Rancho California Road loop and direct on-ramp merge at a three-lane ramp meter for northbound I-15. Drivers using the direct ramp may use the shoulder as a temporary lane, only when the signs show that it is open. A green arrow means the shoulder is open. A red X means it is closed. When the shoulder lane is closed, drivers must remain in the regular travel lane and keep the shoulder clear.

Winchester Road On-Ramp

The Winchester Road northbound on-ramps are striped to create two-lane ramp-meter approaches.

Project History

2019 – RCTC began exploring smart freeway technologies
March 2022 – RCTC received $5 million of Community Project Funding in the federal Appropriations Omnibus Bill, through the support of Congressman Ken Calvert. The $5 million allocation will complete the $18 million funding package for the I-15 Smart Freeway Pilot Project.
2023-2024 – Completion of engineering and environmental studies and final design; release of construction bid
January 2025 – Construction began on the project.
June 2026 – Pilot Period Begins

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Digital Sign Testing Taking Place

As part of the I-15 Smart Freeway Pilot Project, crews have installed digital message signs along northbound 15 and at on-ramps.

Learn More

Upcoming Community Open House Meetings

Join RCTC for an in-person open house meeting for the I-15 Smart Freeway Pilot Project.

In-Person

When: Thursday, March 14, 2024, from 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Location:  Temecula City Hall Conference Center
41000 Main Street
Temecula, CA 92590

Virtual
When:  Thursday, March 21, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Where: rctc.org/SmartFreewayMeeting