Community Corner

Will 'Carmageddon' Bring Los Angelenos Down South?

Some LA residents say they're escaping to San Diego for the weekend; we asked those who run Coronado's hotels if they're expecting a rush.

Warnings of "Carmageddon" have reached San Diego.

A freeway sign above Tamarack Avenue in Carlsbad tells motorists the 405 freeway in Los Angeles will be closed from the I-10 to U.S. 101 Saturday and Sunday.

In the 53-hour closure, severe traffic conditions are expected in Los Angeles. Getting to or from LAX is going to be a challenge. Residents have been told to stay home, get out of town to escape, take public transportation or bear with the detours.

Find out what's happening in Coronadowith free, real-time updates from Patch.

As a result, we could see more crowding on our freeways as people head to San Diego for the weekend. 

Trouble is, with San Diego Pride this weekend at Balboa Park and Comic-Con looming, how can you tell if it's Carmageddon drawing more tourists in?

Find out what's happening in Coronadowith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Claudia Ludlow, general manager of the Glorietta Bay Inn, said she sees some weekend bookings from the Van Nuys area of Los Angeles, but also from Orange County, which is far south of the area to be affected by the closures.

Another hotel official said his reservations are high, like most summers.

“We are projected to be sold out this weekend, but it's not likely due to (Carmegeddon),” said Mark Ochoa, front office manager of the Coronado Island Marriott Resort. “We’re booked every weekend during the summer.”

John Miller, of Villa Capri by the Sea, agreed.

“I’ve been here for 20 years and this is how we always are in the summer. I don’t see any big difference or real change,” he said.

"Carmageddon" could start as early as 7 p.m. Friday as ramps along the 405 freeway in the Sepulveda pass start closing.

During the project, the 405 will be widened and a northbound carpool lane will be added; the Skirball Center Drive, Sunset Boulevard and Mulholland Drive bridges will all be demolished and rebuilt.


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