Project Overview

The Costa Mesa (SR-55) Freeway is one of the most heavily congested freeways in Southern California, and future demand is only expected to increase congestion. The SR-55 serves as a vital link to other major freeway systems within Orange County, and it is the only freeway providing a direct north-south connection between Central Orange County and the Coastal Region. Currently, the SR-55 between Interstate 5 (I-5) and State Route 91 (SR-91) has three to four general purpose lanes, one carpool lane and some auxiliary lanes in each direction. This project proposes to improve mobility and reduce congestion, increase freeway capacity and improve traffic operations.

About the Project

The project reduces congestion and improves traffic by adding one general purpose lane (regular lane) in each direction on SR-55 between I-5 and SR-22 and provide operational improvements at various locations on SR-55 between SR-22 and SR-91. The environmental phase of the project is complete, and a Build Alternative has been selected that will:

• Add one regular lane in each direction between I-5 and SR-22;
• Modify southbound on- and off- ramps at Katella Avenue;
• Modify southbound off-ramp at Lincoln Avenue; and
• Modify northbound and southbound off-ramps at Fourth Street

Caltrans has prepared and approved the Final Environmental Document (FED), detailing the Preferred Build Alternative. To receive an electronic copy of the FED, please email SR55info@octa.net.

Anticipated Project Schedule

Resources

• Project Fact Sheet
• Project Fact Sheet - Spanish
• Project Map
• October 2019 Public Hearing Exhibits
• June 2018 Public Information Meeting Exhibits
• October 2019 City of Orange Presentation: Project Update
• Final Environmental Document Postcard - English
• Final Environmental Document Postcard - Spanish