L.A.-bound drivers to find lane restrictions on I-15

By Kyle B. Hansen

Monday, July 18, 2011 | 12:37 p.m.

Motorists traveling at night between Las Vegas and Southern California might see traffic congestion as roadwork closes lanes on Interstate 15 near the state line.

The California Department of Transportation said about 60 miles of I-15 will be resurfaced from the state line to Rasor Road, which is south of Baker. At least one lane of the interstate in each direction will remain open at all times, officials said.

The work will begin tonight and take place on weeknights from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. until October, Caltrans said.

While the work schedule will help avoid extra problems during the heavy traffic periods when tourists are coming to or leaving Las Vegas, the lane reductions will affect thousands of travelers.

An average of 44,333 vehicles per day crossed the state line on I-15 last month in both directions, according to data from the Nevada Department of Transportation.

During the same time, crews will also be working on Interstate 40, which connects California to Arizona south of Laughlin. That work will be between Crucero Road and Kelbaker Road, Caltrans said.

Both projects are part of a $7.7 million contract awarded to Las Vegas Paving.