Photo source: Caltrans
Caltrans is repairing 15.4 lane miles of concrete pavement and upgrading drainage systems and the median barrier. The project area runs between Candlestick Point and the Mission District. Caltrans expects to complete the project in 2028.
The U.S. 101 Hospital Curve Rehabilitation Project began in October 2025, and Caltrans is nearly one year into repairs, with all work delivered smoothly.
What work has been completed?
Crews have completed several weekend closures, with all jobs delivered ahead of schedule.
- March 27 to 30: Median barrier work wrapped up early on two weekends, so lanes reopened Sunday instead of Monday morning. Because of this progress, Caltrans canceled lane reductions planned for the April 3 weekend.
- August 21 to 24: New drainage was installed and all lanes reopened around 1:00 a.m. on August 24, about five hours early.
- September 4 to 7 (Labor Day weekend): Northbound lanes reopened around 1:15 a.m. on September 7, ahead of schedule.
- September 18 to 21: After a full weekend closure for pavement repairs, all lanes reopened around 9:50 p.m. on September 20, about nine hours early.
Why is this work needed?
This section of U.S. 101 is about 70 years old, and its concrete pavement is reaching the end of its service life. The center medians have visible fractures and cracks. Caltrans says the repairs will extend the life of the roadway and reduce the need for frequent repairs later.
What’s next?
Center median work is scheduled from fall 2026 through late spring 2027. Work on an additional segment is anticipated from spring through fall 2027. Upcoming closures include:
- Friday, October 2 at 11 p.m. to Monday, October 5 at 6 a.m
The Central Freeway connector ramp from the U.S. 101 southbound Central 101 to the U.S. southbound 101 will be closed the entire weekend from Friday, October 2, 11 p.m. to Monday, October 5, 6 a.m., while crews conduct crucial viaduct joint work. This will require the contractor to shut the 10th Street on-ramp. Motorists are encouraged to take the 7th Street on-ramp, otherwise, they will be forced to take the Central to eastbound connector, exit at 4th, and loop around on 3rd Street. and re-enter at 5th. - Friday, October 16 at 11 p.m. to Monday, October 19 at 6 a.m.
All southbound U.S. 101 lanes closed. One northbound lane will be closed and remaining lanes open. - November 6 to 9
All southbound U.S. 101 lanes closed. One northbound lane will be closed and remaining lanes open.
Most construction will occur at night and on weekends. During weekday peak periods (6 to 10 a.m. and 3 to 7 p.m.), lane reductions and a reduced speed limit may be in effect. Drivers should allow extra travel time.
During future closures, Caltrans recommends taking I-280 or using public transit. For closure dates and detour maps, visit the Caltrans San Francisco highway projects website.
The total cost for the 15.4 miles of work along the U.S. 101 (Hospital Curve) is $107 million.