California turns on its first smart freeway on I-15 in Temecula

RCTC: Riverside County Transportation Commission switched on California's first smart freeway Monday, an 8-mile stretch of northbound I-15 between the San Diego County line in Temecula and the I-15/I-215 interchange in Murrieta. Ramp meters at Temecula Parkway, Rancho California Road, and Winchester Road now run as a coordinated system, adjusting in real time, while digital signs post recommended speeds. RCTC built the project with Caltrans, the City of Temecula, and WRCOG.

The pitch is cost. Chair Raymond Gregory said building out of congestion isn't an option and the pilot pairs technology with existing infrastructure instead of adding lanes. Of the $33 million, $27 million came from federal sources, $5 million from a Community Project Funding request by Rep. Ken Calvert, and $1 million from the state.

Drivers may wait slightly longer at on-ramps during the pilot. RCTC will track results with Caltrans over two years, post a public performance dashboard by year's end, and weigh expanding the system elsewhere in the county if it holds up.