The last southbound exit on Interstate 5, known as “Camino de la Plaza,” will be closed for three nights — Monday, September 22 through Wednesday, September 24, from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. — due to pipeline installation work, according to the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans). The closure will affect drivers heading toward the U.S.–Mexico border through the San Ysidro Port of Entry.
During closure hours, vehicles that miss the exit will be automatically directed into Mexico, potentially causing issues for drivers who did not plan to cross into Tijuana. Caltrans recommends motorists take alternate routes if they want to avoid being diverted toward the border.
One detour option is to exit earlier onto San Ysidro Boulevard, turn right onto that avenue, then left on Calle Primera, and continue to Camino de la Plaza via Willow Road.
This closure is part of ongoing underground infrastructure improvements in the border area. The pedestrian crossing and other ports of entry will remain unaffected, though nighttime congestion is expected, particularly during peak hours. For real-time updates, drivers can check QuickMap, Caltrans’ online traffic tool.
