A major Bay Area freeway remains closed through the weekend as Caltrans conducts roadway improvements, causing heavy traffic backups across the Bay Bridge. Caltrans has shut down westbound Interstate 80 from Fifth Street to 15th Street for weekend roadwork. According to officials, delays from the toll plaza to the Fremont Street exit—the first exit in San Francisco—are running about 45 minutes, with overall delays spanning 45 minutes to an hour. “It’s going to cause backups,” said Caltrans spokesperson Lori Shepherd. “What we are suggesting to the public is if they can plan early before they leave maybe consider public transportation, maybe consider one of the other bridges depending on where you are coming from,” Shepherd added. Reporting live near the closure, NBC Bay Area’s Christie Smith noted that traffic has moved slowly near the checkpoint. “I’m at the Fifth Street exit. This is the last exit that drivers can use if they are coming into San Francisco from Oakland… so it’s been a slow go here,” Smith said. While some motorists noted that the trip felt like a standard commute, others chose to avoid the route entirely. “It’s pretty long, but it was like a commuting day, so not too bad,” said Morgan, a San Francisco motorist. When asked if the delay was anticipated, Morgan replied, “No, definitely not; we’re running late to a party, and we have the food.” The closure has also caused traffic to spill over onto city streets. Scott, a neighborhood resident, said he kept track of the schedule to stay clear of the congestion. “I avoid it over the weekends when they are doing the work. Yeah, I have kept an eye on what’s happening, and I’m happy they are getting toward the end of it,” Scott said, adding, “The roads here need some work, definitely.” Caltrans states that the weekend closure allows crews to place polyester concrete on the Bayshore Freeway deck. The viaducts are more than 70 years old, and the overlay is designed to cover potholes and provide a smoother ride. This weekend’s operation is a continuation of a project that began in April, when crews resurfaced the eastbound I-80 freeway. Officials are working to complete the improvements before the arrival of wet winter weather. The affected portion of westbound Interstate 80 from Fifth Street to 15th Street is expected to reopen by 5 a.m. Monday. ...read more read less